Maple Donut Bars are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavor of maple syrup with the comforting texture of a yeast-raised donut. These bar-shaped donuts are deep-fried to golden perfection and topped with a luscious maple glaze, making them a favorite among donut enthusiasts. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast indulgence or a sweet snack, these maple bars offer a delightful balance of sweetness and texture that is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients:
For the Donut Bars:

• 1 cup warm water (about 110°F)

• 3 tablespoons active dry yeast

• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 1/4 cup butter-flavored shortening (or regular shortening)

• 3 large egg yolks

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 3½ cups bread flour (spooned and leveled)

• 2½ teaspoons kosher salt

• ½ teaspoon baking powder

• Peanut oil for frying 

For the Maple Icing:

• 4 cups powdered sugar

• 2 teaspoons light corn syrup

• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 teaspoon maple extract (or more to taste)

• ⅓ cup hot water (plus more if needed) 

Directions:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine warm water, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the mixture becomes bubbly.

2. Prepare the Dough: Add the remaining ½ cup sugar, shortening, egg yolks, and vanilla extract to the yeast mixture. Mix until the shortening is broken up but hasn't fully blended in.

3. Add Dry Ingredients: Incorporate 1 cup of bread flour, salt, and baking powder into the mixture. Beat until well blended.

4. Knead the Dough: Gradually add the remaining flour, 1 cup at a time, until a dough forms. Switch to the dough hook and knead for about 5 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.

5. First Rise: Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

6. Shape the Bars: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it into an 11×12 inch rectangle. Cut the dough into 12 rectangles, each about 5×2 inches.

7. Second Rise: Place the dough rectangles onto floured baking sheets, spaced at least 2 inches apart. Cover and let them rise for about 45 minutes, until doubled in size.

8. Heat the Oil: In a deep fryer or large pot, heat about 2 inches of peanut oil to 350°F (175°C).

9. Fry the Donut Bars: Carefully fry the dough bars in batches, about 1–2 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

10. Prepare the Maple Icing: In a large bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, corn syrup, salt, vanilla extract, maple extract, and hot water until smooth. Adjust consistency with additional hot water if needed.

11. Glaze the Donut Bars: Dip the top side of each cooled donut bar into the maple icing. Place on a wire rack to allow the glaze to set.

12. Serve: Once the glaze has set, serve the maple donut bars fresh.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 347 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 63 g

• Protein: 5 g

• Fat: 8 g

• Saturated Fat: 5 g

• Cholesterol: 51 mg

• Sodium: 144 mg

• Potassium: 97 mg

• Fiber: 1 g

• Sugar: 36 g

• Vitamin A: 282 IU

• Calcium: 43 mg

• Iron: 2 mg