Maple bar facts for kids
A maple bar, topped with bacon
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| Type | Doughnut |
|---|---|
| Place of origin | United States Canada |
| Region or state | West Coast of the United States British Columbia |
A maple bar is a yummy, rectangular doughnut that's famous for its sweet maple glaze on top. Imagine a soft, fluffy doughnut shaped like a bar, covered in a shiny, golden-brown frosting that tastes just like maple syrup!
Sometimes, maple bars are filled with creamy custard or a light, fluffy cream. Other times, they are left plain inside, letting the delicious maple glaze be the star. These tasty treats are especially popular on the West Coast of the United States. You might also find them in British Columbia, Canada, though they are less common there.
Maple bars have a few other names too! You might hear them called a maple-glazed Long John, a Maple-Creamstick, or even a maple Bismarck. No matter what you call them, they are a sweet delight!
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What Makes a Maple Bar Special?
Maple bars stand out from other doughnuts because of their unique shape and, of course, their signature maple glaze. Most doughnuts are round, but the maple bar is long and rectangular. This shape makes it easy to hold and enjoy.
The maple glaze is made from maple syrup, which comes from the sap of maple trees. This natural sweetener gives the glaze a rich, earthy, and sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the soft doughnut. It's a taste that many people love!
How Maple Bars are Made
Making a maple bar starts with a basic doughnut dough. This dough is usually made from flour, water, yeast, sugar, and eggs. The yeast helps the dough rise, making the doughnut light and airy.
Once the dough is ready, it's rolled out and cut into long, rectangular shapes. These shapes are then deep-fried until they are golden brown and cooked through. After frying, the doughnuts are allowed to cool a bit.
The final and most important step is adding the maple glaze. This glaze is typically a mix of powdered sugar, milk or water, and real maple syrup. The warm doughnuts are dipped into or drizzled with this sweet glaze, which then sets into a smooth, shiny coating.
Where to Find Maple Bars
Maple bars are a beloved treat, especially in certain parts of North America. They are a staple in many doughnut shops and bakeries along the West Coast of the United States. States like California, Oregon, and Washington are great places to find them.
While they are less common in Canada, you might still stumble upon them in some bakeries, particularly in British Columbia. Interestingly, large coffee and doughnut chains like Tim Hortons do not typically sell maple bars, making them more of a specialty item found in local shops.
Popularity and Variations
The popularity of maple bars comes from their comforting sweetness and satisfying texture. They are often enjoyed for breakfast, as a snack, or as a dessert. Their distinct flavor makes them a favorite for many doughnut lovers.
While the classic maple bar has a simple maple glaze, there are some fun variations. As mentioned, some are filled with custard or cream, adding another layer of flavor and richness. You might also find them topped with sprinkles, nuts, or even crispy bacon for a sweet and savory twist!
