Quick Maple Bars are a delightful, easy-to-make pastry that combines the rich flavor of maple glaze with the soft texture of a doughnut-like bar. These bars are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat. With only a few ingredients and a quick cooking time, you can whip up these sweet maple delights in no time. Let’s get baking!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
For the Bars
- 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough or biscuit dough
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Maple Glaze
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1-2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Prepare the Bars
- Prepare Oil: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Cut the Dough: Unroll the crescent roll or biscuit dough. If using crescent roll dough, pinch the seams together. Cut the dough into rectangular strips (about 4 inches long and 1 inch wide).
Fry the Bars
- Fry the Dough: Carefully place the dough strips in the hot oil, frying them in batches. Fry for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bars to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Make the Maple Glaze
- Prepare Glaze: In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, maple syrup, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. The glaze should be thick but pourable—add more milk, a little at a time, if needed.
Glaze the Bars
- Dip or Drizzle: Once the bars have cooled slightly, dip each one into the maple glaze, allowing any excess to drip off. Alternatively, you can drizzle the glaze over the bars for a rustic look.
- Let Set: Place the glazed bars on a wire rack set over parchment paper to let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving.
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Oil Temperature: Keep the oil at a consistent temperature to ensure even cooking. If the oil is too hot, the bars may brown too quickly on the outside without cooking through.
- Dough Choice: Crescent roll dough gives a flakier texture, while biscuit dough results in a more traditional doughnut texture. Choose whichever you prefer.
- Maple Syrup: For the best flavor, use pure maple syrup instead of artificial maple-flavored syrup.
Variations
- Cinnamon Sugar Bars: Instead of glazing, coat the bars in a mixture of cinnamon and granulated sugar immediately after frying.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Add a drizzle of melted chocolate over the maple glaze for a decadent touch.
- Nut Topping: Sprinkle chopped toasted pecans or walnuts over the glaze for added crunch and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Breakfast Treat: Serve these bars with a cup of hot coffee for a delicious breakfast or brunch treat.
- Dessert: Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a simple yet indulgent dessert.
- Party Snacks: Arrange on a platter for an easy party snack that guests will love.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make These Bars Ahead of Time?
These bars are best enjoyed fresh, but you can make them a few hours in advance. Store them at room temperature in an airtight container until ready to serve.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover maple bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to refresh them.
Can I Bake Instead of Fry?
Yes, you can bake the dough at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. However, frying gives the bars a more authentic, doughnut-like texture.
What If I Don’t Have Maple Syrup?
If you don’t have maple syrup, you can substitute honey or make a simple vanilla glaze using milk, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
Quick Maple Bars are a simple yet delicious treat that brings the classic doughnut flavor into your home with minimal effort. With a soft dough base and a sweet maple glaze, these bars are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or anytime you need a sweet pick-me-up, these maple bars are easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Gather your ingredients, get frying, and indulge in this quick and tasty delight!
Happy Cooking!