Homemade Maple Donut Bars

Ingredients

For the Donut Bars:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup buttermilk
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup melted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Maple Glaze:

• 1½ cups powdered sugar
• 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon milk (more if needed)
• ½ teaspoon maple extract (optional for stronger flavor)

Instructions

1. Make the Donut Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt. Make sure the dry ingredients are evenly combined to ensure consistent rising and texture. In a separate bowl, whisk together ¾ cup buttermilk, 2 large eggs, ¼ cup melted butter, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth and uniform. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the donut bars tough. Cover the dough and let it rest for 10 minutes to allow the flour to hydrate fully and the dough to relax.
2. Shape the Donuts: Lightly flour a clean surface and roll the dough to about ½-inch thickness. Using a knife or dough cutter, cut the dough into rectangular shapes of your desired size. Place the cut dough pieces on a parchment-lined tray and chill in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes. Chilling helps the dough hold its shape during frying and prevents it from spreading too much.
3. Fry the Donuts: In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat 2–3 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the donut bars in batches, frying for about 1–2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pot, as this lowers the oil temperature and can result in greasy donuts. Use a slotted spoon to remove the donuts and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.