Go Back
–+ servings
Maple Walnut Bars

Irresistible Maple Walnut Bars Perfect for Holiday Celebrations

These delightful Maple Walnut Bars combine a buttery shortbread base with creamy maple filling, perfect for your holiday celebrations.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Cooling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 16 squares
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 210
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Crust
  • 1 cup Butter Provides richness and moisture; substitute with margarine for a dairy-free option.
  • 1/2 cup White granulated sugar Adds sweetness; can be replaced with coconut sugar.
  • 1 cup Plain flour The main structure; use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon Adds warm spice; omit if desired.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg Enhances flavor; omit if desired.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Salt Balances sweetness; essential for flavor.
For the Filling
  • 2 large Eggs Provide binding and moisture; flax eggs can be used as a vegan substitute.
  • 1 cup Brown sugar Adds depth; light or dark brown sugar can be used interchangeably.
  • 1/2 cup Maple syrup Infuses with signature flavor; use pure maple syrup.
  • 1/2 cup Heavy cream Contributes to creamy texture; can be replaced with coconut cream.
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract Enhances sweetness; use pure vanilla.
  • 1 tablespoon Additional flour Provides structure; regular or gluten-free flour can be used.
  • 1 cup Walnuts Add crunch; pecans could be substituted.

Equipment

  • 8x8 inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowl
  • Electric mixer

Method
 

Baking Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper and grease it lightly.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine softened butter with granulated sugar and cream together on medium speed for about 2 minutes.
  3. Add in the plain flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt and mix on low speed until crumbly. Press the mixture into the bottom of the baking dish.
  4. Bake the crust for 15-20 minutes until lightly golden. Allow to cool slightly.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, brown sugar, maple syrup, heavy cream, vanilla extract, additional flour, and a pinch of salt for about 2 minutes.
  6. Once the crust has cooled, sprinkle chopped walnuts over it and pour the filling over evenly.
  7. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the filling is firm and a toothpick comes out clean.
  8. Cool completely in the pan before refrigerating for 30 minutes. Lift out and cut into 16 squares.

Nutrition

Serving: 1squareCalories: 210kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 2gFat: 11gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 100mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Use quality pure maple syrup for best flavor, avoid overmixing the crust, and allow bars to cool completely before cutting for cleaner slices.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!