Maple Walnut Bars are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of toasted walnuts and sweet maple syrup. These bars are buttery and chewy, making them a perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving something sweet, these bars are sure to impress. With a drizzle of decadent maple icing on top, they offer a delightful finish that enhances their flavor profile. Let’s dive into how to make these scrumptious bars!

Why You’ll Love This Maple Walnut Bars

There are countless reasons to adore these Maple Nut Bars. First, they are incredibly easy to make, requiring only simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Second, the combination of chewy texture and nutty flavor creates a satisfying bite in every piece. Third, they are versatile and can be served at various occasions, from casual snacks to festive gatherings. Additionally, these bars can be made vegan or gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs. Finally, the delightful maple flavor makes them a standout dessert that everyone will love.

Ingredients for Maple Walnut Bars

Gather these items:

10 tablespoons (141g) melted unsalted butter (cooled slightly but still warm)
¾ cup (170g) light brown sugar (tightly packed)
1 large egg
⅓ cup (78ml) pure maple syrup
¾ teaspoon maple extract
1½ cups (188g) all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled or weighed)
1 teaspoon cornstarch
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 scant cup (97g) chopped toasted walnuts
1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
¼ teaspoon maple extract
pinch of salt
2 tablespoons finely chopped walnuts (optional topping)
flaky sea salt (optional topping)

How to Make Maple Walnut Bars Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8 square pan (preferably metal) with parchment paper and lightly grease it. Set aside.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk warm butter and brown sugar for one full minute until completely combined. Add egg, maple syrup, and maple extract, whisking until well combined.
Step 3: Sprinkle the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt over the top of the wet mixture. Stir until fully combined, scraping the sides and bottom of the bowl. Stir in the walnuts.
Step 4: Scoop the batter into the prepared pan and spread into an even layer. Bake for 22-26 minutes, until light golden brown, dry on top, and the center no longer jiggles. Let cool completely on a wire rack.
Step 5: Whisk powdered sugar, milk, maple extract, and salt until well combined. Adjust the consistency if needed.
Step 6: Drizzle the icing over the cooled bars. Top with finely chopped walnuts and flaky sea salt, if desired.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Maple Walnut Bars

Keep these in mind:

Toast walnuts before use if not already done for enhanced flavor and crunch.
Ensure your butter is warm but not hot to prevent cooking the egg when mixed.
For a vegan option, substitute the egg with a flax egg or applesauce.
Using a metal pan helps achieve a better golden brown crust.

Best Ways to Serve Maple Walnut Bars

There are many delightful ways to serve these Walnut Maple Treats. They can be enjoyed warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert. Alternatively, serve them chilled with a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon snack. For gatherings, slice them into smaller squares and serve on a platter for a lovely display of Maple and Walnut Dessert. You can also pair them with fresh fruits for a balanced treat.

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How to Store and Reheat Maple Walnut Bars

Store any leftover Maple Walnut Snack Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you wish to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to two weeks. To enjoy them warm again, simply microwave for a few seconds. This quick method helps maintain their chewy texture, making them as delightful as when first baked.

Frequently Asked Questions About Maple Walnut Bars

What’s the secret to perfect Maple Walnut Bars?

The secret lies in not overmixing the batter and ensuring your ingredients are at the right temperatures. This prevents the bars from becoming dense and ensures a chewy texture. Using high-quality maple syrup also enhances the flavor significantly.

Can I make Maple Walnut Bars ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. You can also make the bars a day in advance and store them in an airtight container.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Maple Walnut Bars?

Common mistakes include overbaking or using cold ingredients. Always keep an eye on the baking time and perform the toothpick test to check for doneness. Also, ensure your butter is warm but not hot to prevent cooking the eggs prematurely.

Variations of Maple Walnut Bars You Can Try

There are several fun variations you can try with these bars. For a chocolatey twist, add chocolate chips to the batter. If you prefer a healthier version, consider making Vegan Maple Walnut Bars using plant-based butter and egg substitutes. You can also try making Gluten-free Maple Walnut Bars by replacing all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend. Finally, for a fun breakfast option, add oats to create Maple Walnut Bars with Oats.

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For more delicious recipes, check out our desserts category or try making easy cinnamon rolls for a delightful breakfast treat. If you’re interested in vegan options, consider exploring veggie burgers with avocado green harissa for a tasty meal.