With a shortbread-like crust, a rich creamy topping, and a decadent maple flavor throughout, these Rich Maple Butter Bars are a delightfully sweet dessert that is perfect for fall.
Begin by preheating your oven to 325 degrees F. Spray a 9x13 pan with baking spray and set aside.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Then, in a medium bowl whisk together the butter, maple syrup, egg, and vanilla.
Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until evenly combined. Using your hands, press this mixture into your prepared pan.
Next, with a mixer, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add in the confectioners' sugar, eggs, maple syrup, and maple extract. Beat until smooth. Pour this mixture over the base layer in the pan.
Bake for about 50-55 minutes or until the edges are starting to brown and the center is set, but still slightly jiggly.
Optional: Once removed from the oven, immediately top with cinnamon sugar pie crust cookies.
Allow the bars to cool completely. Slice into 20 small rectangles.
Sprinkle with confectioners' sugar. (If needed, sprinkle again with more confectioners' sugar before serving.)
Notes
You can get the recipe for my cinnamon sugar pie crust cookies HERE.