Ontario Maple Crunch Bars
Ontario Maple Crunch Bars are a staple dessert that brings the natural sweetness of Canadian maple syrup right to your home. With a rich history rooted in the abundantly maple-treed landscapes of Ontario, these bars have become synonymous with local culinary traditions. Enjoyed by both locals and tourists, these decadent bars are the perfect treat for those who appreciate the complexity of flavors that only pure maple syrup can deliver.
Background and History
The origin of Ontario Maple Crunch Bars can be traced back to early settlers who learned the art of tapping maple trees from Indigenous peoples. Maple syrup has always been a treasured ingredient due to its unique and natural sweetness. Over time, it became a cherished addition to a plethora of recipes, including baked goods like these crunchy bars. The recipe has evolved, incorporating local ingredients and modern techniques, but remains true to its origins by featuring maple syrup as the star ingredient.
Ingredients
All the ingredients listed below are key to creating the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch in these bars. Each component brings a unique texture or flavor, culminating in a harmonious dessert experience.
- Maple Syrup - 1 cup of pure Ontario maple syrup
- Rolled Oats - 2 cups of old-fashioned rolled oats
- All-Purpose Flour - 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- Brown Sugar - 1/2 cup of packed brown sugar
- Butter - 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, melted
- Baking Soda - 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
- Salt - 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- Walnuts - 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts
- Vanilla Extract - 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Preparation
Before starting, gather all your ingredients and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Proper preparation ensures a smooth cooking process, resulting in perfectly baked bars.
Step 1: Prepare the Oat Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Stir them well to ensure even distribution of the dry ingredients.
Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients
Next, add the melted butter and vanilla extract into the dry mixture. Mix until you achieve a crumbly texture. Make sure all the dry ingredients are moisturized with the butter.
Step 3: Incorporate Walnuts
Stir in the chopped walnuts carefully. The walnuts add a delightful crunch and contrast beautifully with the maple syrup.
Step 4: Layer the Mixture
Press half of this mixture firmly into a greased 9x13 inch baking pan. Compressing the layer ensures it holds together once baked.
Step 5: Add Maple Syrup Filling
Pour 1 cup of pure maple syrup evenly over the prepared base layer. This layer of maple syrup will seep into the crust during baking, incorporating its flavor throughout the bar.
Step 6: Top with Remaining Mixture
Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the syrup layer, pressing down gently to cover any visible syrup. Avoid applying too much pressure, which can disrupt the layers.
Step 7: Baking
Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye out for a golden-brown finish. Confirm readiness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean or with minimal crumbs, indicating the mixture is well set. For assistance, refer to a cooking timer.
Enjoying the Bars
Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. This cooling period is critical as it lets the syrup thicken, resulting in easy-to-handle bars upon slicing. Cut into squares or bars of your preferred size and enjoy a taste of Ontario's rich heritage.
Serving Suggestions
Ontario Maple Crunch Bars are versatile and can be paired with a range of flavors:
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- Serve with a side of fresh fruits like berries to add a refreshing contrast.
- Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for a comforting afternoon treat.
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, ensuring their texture remains crisp. With each bite, you experience a perfect blend of sweetness, crunch, and a nostalgic taste of Ontario's culinary tradition.