Keyword: baking, comfort food, Dessert Recipe, homemade donuts, Irresistible Delicious Maple Donut Bars From Scratch, Maple Donut Bars
Prep Time: 20 minutesminutes
Cook Time: 30 minutesminutes
Rising Time: 1 hourhour45 minutesminutes
Total Time: 2 hourshours35 minutesminutes
Servings: 12bars
Calories: 250kcal
Equipment
Large Mixing Bowl
Whisk
Rolling Pin
Deep Fryer or Heavy Pot
Thermometer
Wire Rack
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
1cupWarm WaterActivates the yeast for proper dough rising.
2teaspoonsActive Dry YeastEssential for leavening; must be fresh for optimal results.
1tablespoonGranulated SugarFeeds the yeast to kickstart fermentation.
1/2cupGranulated SugarAdds sweetness to the dough for flavor balance.
1cupButter-Flavored ShorteningCreates rich flavor and tender texture.
3largeEgg YolksEnhances richness and supports structural integrity.
1teaspoonVanillaInfuses the dough with comforting flavor notes.
3.5cupsBread FlourHigh protein content ensures chewiness.
2.5teaspoonsKosher SaltBalances sweetness and enhances flavor.
1/2teaspoonBaking PowderProvides extra lift for a light texture.
Frying Ingredients
1quartPeanut OilIdeal for frying, giving a crispy exterior.
Glaze Ingredients
4cupsPowdered SugarMain ingredient for creating the sweet icing.
2teaspoonsLight Corn SyrupAdds shine and helps icing adhere.
1/4teaspoonKosher SaltBalances sweetness in the icing.
1/2teaspoonVanillaAdds a hint of vanilla to the glaze.
1teaspoonMaple ExtractIntensifies the maple flavor.
1/3cupHot WaterAchieves the right consistency for icing.
Instructions
Making the Donut Bars
In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar. Let this mixture sit until bubbly, about 5 minutes.
Add ½ cup of granulated sugar, butter-flavored shortening, egg yolks, and vanilla to the bubbly yeast mixture. Beat until slightly blended.
Gradually add 1 cup of bread flour, then sprinkle in the salt and baking powder. Stir everything together for about 1 minute until the mixture comes together.
Incorporate the remaining flour, one cup at a time, kneading for approximately 5 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Shape the dough into a 6x6 inch square, cover, and let it rise in a warm oven for about 1 hour, until it doubles in size.
Roll out the dough into an 11x12 inch rectangle and cut into 12 rectangles. Allow to rise for 45 minutes.
Heat peanut oil to 350°F and fry in batches for 30-40 seconds until golden brown.
Once fried, drain on paper towels and let cool completely. Whisk the glaze ingredients together and dip each donut bar, allowing excess glaze to drip off.
Place on a wire rack to set for 15-20 minutes before serving.
Notes
Optional: Sprinkle with crushed nuts for added texture before serving.