Quick Maple Bars Recipe: Soft, Sweet, and Perfectly Maple-Flavored

Introduction

Maple season isn’t just for pancakes! If you’ve been craving something rich, chewy, and sweetly nostalgic, these Quick Maple Bars are your new go-to treat. With deep maple flavor, a buttery soft texture, and a layer of creamy maple frosting sandwiched between, this dessert is the essence of comfort food. And best of all? You don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to enjoy them.

Whether you’re making them for a family gathering, brunch platter, or simply to indulge in a sweet snack, these bars are a breeze to whip up and even easier to devour.

Looking for more simple treats? Try our Strawberry Honeybun Cake or Four-Ingredient Nougat Bars next!

Why You’ll Love These Quick Maple Bars

✅ Fast and simple to make—no complicated ingredients
✅ Loaded with real maple syrup flavor
✅ Chewy cookie-like texture with a creamy center
✅ Perfect for dessert platters, snacks, and brunch tables
✅ Kid-friendly and freezer-friendly

If you’re a fan of maple donuts, maple fudge, or anything with cozy fall vibes, this recipe hits the spot!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Maple Bars:

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup light brown sugar, packed
1 large egg
1/2 cup pure maple syrup
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt

For the Maple Cream Filling:

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 tbsp pure maple syrup
1 cup powdered sugar
1–2 tsp milk or cream, to thin if needed

Pro tip: Use 100% pure maple syrup (not imitation pancake syrup) for the deepest flavor.

How to Make Maple Bars

Step 1: Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This builds the base of that chewy texture.

Beat in the egg, then mix in the maple syrup and vanilla extract until smooth and combined.

Step 2: Add the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

✔️ Don’t overmix—stop as soon as no dry streaks remain.

Step 3: Bake the Bars

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking dish (8×8 or 9×9) with parchment paper or grease it lightly.

Spread the dough evenly into the pan and smooth the top. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the bars are golden brown and set in the center.

Let cool completely before cutting or frosting.

Step 4: Make the Maple Cream Filling

In a bowl, beat together the butter and maple syrup. Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue beating until smooth.

If the filling is too thick, add 1 teaspoon of milk or cream at a time until you reach a spreadable consistency.

Step 5: Assemble Your Maple Bars

Once the bars are completely cool:

Slice into even squares or rounds using a biscuit cutter.
Spread a generous layer of maple cream on one side of a piece.
Top with another bar to form a sandwich-style maple bar.

Or just spread the frosting over each piece for single-layer bars if you prefer less sweetness.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigerator: Keeps for 1 week.
Freezer-Friendly: Wrap bars individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature for 15–20 minutes or microwave for 10–15 seconds.

Optional Add-Ins & Flavor Variations

Want to customize your maple bars? Here are some ideas:

Chopped pecans or walnuts – add 1/2 cup to the dough for crunch
Maple glaze – whisk maple syrup and powdered sugar for a pourable topping
Pumpkin spice – add 1/2 tsp for a fall-inspired flavor
Espresso powder – a pinch in the dough boosts flavor and pairs beautifully with maple

Reader Review Spotlight

“These taste just like maple donuts—but better because they’re homemade! I added pecans and doubled the batch for Thanksgiving. Huge hit!”
– Andrea M., Vermont

“I made these with my kids, and they were gone in two days. Super easy and insanely delicious!”
– Drew T., Oregon

Nutrition Estimate (Per Sandwich Bar)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~280
Net Carbs	~30g
Protein	~2g
Fat	~14g
Sugar	~22g

Nutrition values are estimates and will vary based on brands and serving size.

Related Recipes You’ll Love

Looking for more easy desserts?

Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries
Peach Pie Cruffins
Creamy Lemon Pound Cake
Allrecipes‘ Maple Cookie Collection

Final Thoughts

These Quick Maple Bars are a fall-inspired delight, but honestly? They’re crave-worthy any time of year. Whether you’re hosting brunch, baking for a potluck, or just treating yourself, they’ll win you over with their chewy texture and irresistible maple cream filling.