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Ontario Maple Crunch Bars

Ontario Maple Crunch Bars are a delightful treat blending the rich flavor of maple syrup with a satisfying crunch from oats and walnuts. Perfect for a sweet snack break any time of the day.

Difficulty
Difficulty
Easy
Prep Time
Prep Time
40 min
Cost
Cost
Low
Calories
220
Protein
4g
Sugar
18g
NEW

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.

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.

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