The moment I lifted the warm, golden-browned donut bars from the oven, the rich aroma of nutmeg and brown butter filled my kitchen, instantly whisking me back to my grandmother’s cozy mornings. These Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars with Brown Butter Maple Vanilla Bean Glaze are not only a delicious nod to tradition, but they also make for a quick and satisfying treat perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a leisurely brunch or looking for a sweet snack to cap off your day, these moist bars topped with a silky glaze will have everyone reaching for seconds. Plus, with the option to swap out traditional flour for gluten-free alternatives, this treat can be enjoyed by all! Are you ready to bring a taste of nostalgia to your kitchen? Let’s dive in!
Why are these donut bars so irresistible?
Nostalgic Comfort: Each bite of these Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars transports you back to cherished childhood mornings filled with sweetness and love.
Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can prepare a delightful treat that will impress family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen.
Decadent Glaze: The luxurious Brown Butter Maple Vanilla Bean Glaze elevates the flavor, creating a perfectly sweet finish that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
Versatile Variations: Get creative! Try adding chocolate chips or a spice blend like cinnamon for that personalized touch or enjoy with a cup of coffee or a refreshing fruit salad.
Meal Prep Friendly: These bars stay fresh for days! Make a batch in advance, or double the recipe for gatherings—freezing leftovers is also a breeze.
Crowd Pleaser: Whether for brunch, dessert, or a cozy snack, these donut bars are sure to delight anyone who takes a bite! They truly are an indulgence everyone will love.
Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars Ingredients
• Dive into these delicious Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars with this essential ingredient list!
For the Batter
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the bars; feel free to substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
- Baking Powder – This leavening agent helps the batter rise for a light texture.
- Baking Soda – Works alongside baking powder to enhance fluffiness.
- Ground Nutmeg – Adds a nostalgic flavor and aroma; this spice is essential for authenticity.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor harmony.
- Butter (Softened) – Creates a light and fluffy texture; replace it with vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the batter; brown sugar can be used for a deeper flavor.
- Large Eggs – Binds ingredients together and adds moisture; use egg substitutes for a vegan version.
- Vanilla Extract – Elevates the flavor; opting for pure extract is highly recommended.
- Buttermilk – Contributes moisture and acidity, tenderizing the crumb; a DIY option is mixing milk with vinegar or lemon juice.
For the Glaze
- Butter – Use unsalted, melted butter for the glaze, and brown it to enhance its nutty flavor.
- Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and creates a smooth glaze; sift it for the best consistency.
- Maple Syrup – Infuses a rich sweetness; pure maple syrup is ideal for a natural taste.
- Vanilla Bean Paste – Enhances flavors with depth; if unavailable, pure vanilla extract works too.
- Milk – Adjusts the glaze’s thickness; use as needed to achieve a silky texture.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, take a 9×13-inch baking pan and grease it thoroughly or line it with parchment paper. This will ensure your Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars come out smoothly and have a lovely golden finish.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This mixture forms the base of your donut bars, providing structure and that classic flavor. Set this bowl aside as you move on to the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1/2 cup of softened butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This process incorporates air, creating a tender crumb. Next, add 2 large eggs one at a time, making sure to mix well after each addition, then stir in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract for a delightful aromatic boost.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add your dry mixture to the butter mixture, alternating it with 1 cup of buttermilk. Start and end with the flour mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; a few lumps are perfectly fine for these Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars. The batter should be thick yet smooth.
Step 5: Bake the Donut Bars
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly to create a smooth surface. Bake in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The edges should be slightly golden, and the center should spring back when lightly touched.
Step 6: Prepare the Glaze
While the donut bars cool, prepare the Brown Butter Maple Vanilla Bean Glaze. In a saucepan, melt 1/4 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat until it turns golden brown and smells nutty. Remove from heat and whisk in 2 cups of powdered sugar, 1/4 cup of maple syrup, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla bean paste. If the glaze is too thick, add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.
Step 7: Glaze and Serve
Once the Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars have cooled completely, generously pour the glaze over the top. Allow it to set for a few minutes before slicing the bars into rectangles. Serve these delightful treats warm or at room temperature, allowing everyone to savor the nostalgic flavors in each bite.
What to Serve with Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars
Treat yourself to an indulgent pairing that elevates your cozy moments with these delicious donut bars.
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Freshly Brewed Coffee: The rich flavors of coffee balance the sweetness of the glaze and enhance the nutty notes of the bars.
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Fruit Salad: A vibrant medley of seasonal fruits adds freshness and a bright contrast to the decadent donut bars. It’s a delightful way to lighten up your brunch table.
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Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layer creamy yogurt with fruits and granola, serving as a refreshing contrast to the rich donut bars. This makes for a balanced breakfast or snack.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream offers a fluffy texture that complements the soft, moist bars perfectly.
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: For syrup aficionados, a light drizzle of pure maple syrup emphasizes the flavors of the glaze while adding an extra layer of decadence.
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Hot Chocolate: On cooler days, serve these bars alongside a warm cup of hot chocolate. The combination will warm your heart and satisfy sweet cravings.
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Milk: A classic pairing, refreshing milk—whole, almond, or oat—offers a simple yet satisfying beverage to wash down each bite.
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Dark Chocolate Ganache: For those seeking an elevated indulgence, a rich dark chocolate ganache dip takes these bars to a whole new level of decadence.
How to Store and Freeze Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars
- Room Temperature: Keep the donut bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This ensures they stay moist and fresh for your enjoyment.
- Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, refrigerate the bars in an airtight container for up to a week. Reheat in the microwave for a warm treat!
- Freezer: For future indulgence, freeze the cooled bars individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
- Reheating: To enjoy your frozen Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge, then warm them in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars Variations
Embrace your creativity in the kitchen and customize these delicious donut bars to suit your tastes!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for deliciously light bars.
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Vegan: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal and use almond milk instead of buttermilk for a compassionate twist.
You can whip up a delightful batch that everyone can enjoy. These bars stay just as moist and flavorful, ensuring no one misses out!
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Spiced Up: Add cinnamon or a pinch of cardamom to the batter for a warm, spicy flavor that conjures up cozy vibes.
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Chocolate Lovers: Fold in chocolate chips or chunks into the batter for an indulgent treat that will satisfy any chocolate craving.
Imagine biting into a soft donut bar with melted chocolate throughout—it’s pure bliss!
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Fruit Infusion: Mix in fresh blueberries or mashed bananas to add sweetness and moisture. You can also serve each bar with a side of fruit for a refreshing contrast to the rich glaze.
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Nutty Twist: Sprinkling chopped walnuts or pecans on top of the glaze gives a delightful crunch, adding a tasty texture contrast.
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Daring Heat: If you love a kick, sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper in the batter for a surprising heat that beautifully balances the sweetness.
These variations are only the beginning! For some extra sweet inspiration, check out our Baked Maple Donut bars for a twist or dive into our tasty Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake casserole. Happy baking!
Expert Tips for Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature butter and eggs helps the batter come together more easily, resulting in lighter, fluffier Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars.
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Watch the Bake Time: Oven temperatures can vary greatly. Start checking your donut bars a few minutes before the suggested bake time to avoid overcooking.
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Don’t Over-Mix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Over-mixing can lead to dense bars, so be gentle!
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Let the Glaze Cool Slightly: Allow the glaze to cool for about 5 minutes before pouring it over the bars; this helps it adhere better instead of running off.
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Storing Leftovers: Keep any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. These Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars can also be frozen for longer storage!
Make Ahead Options
These Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking, keeping it tightly covered to maintain its freshness. Alternatively, bake the bars ahead of time, and let them cool completely. Once cooled, you can glaze them and store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, ensuring they remain just as delicious! If you’re planning for a later date, freeze the baked bars without glaze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. To serve, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator, warm them in the oven for a few minutes, and glaze just before enjoying!
Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars Recipe FAQs
What type of flour can I use for these donut bars?
Absolutely! While all-purpose flour is the standard for this recipe, you can substitute it with gluten-free flour if needed. Brands like Bob’s Red Mill or King Arthur Flour offer great gluten-free options that work well in baking. If you opt for gluten-free flour, just make sure it’s a blend that includes xanthan gum for better structure.
How should I store leftover donut bars?
To keep your delicious Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to prolong their life, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just remember to allow them to come to room temperature before diving in!
Can I freeze these donut bars?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze these bars for later enjoyment! After they’ve cooled completely, wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge, and warm them slightly in the microwave for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
What should I do if my donut bars are too dry?
If you find that your Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars are on the dry side, ensure you’ve added the right amount of buttermilk and haven’t overbaked them. Each oven varies, so consider checking them a few minutes earlier than the recommended time. If the bars do turn out dry, a drizzle of glaze or a bit of butter on top can help to add moisture.
Can I make these donut bars dairy-free or vegan?
Very much so! To make your donut bars dairy-free, replace the butter with vegan butter and use almond or oat milk mixed with vinegar as a substitute for buttermilk. For a vegan option, you can substitute eggs with flax eggs or applesauce—using 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal combined with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg. This makes for a wonderfully fluffy texture!
Are there any common allergens in this recipe?
These Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars contain gluten (from the flour), eggs, and dairy (from the butter and buttermilk). If you’re catering to those with allergies, you can easily swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend, replace the butter with a dairy-free version, and use suitable egg substitutes as mentioned earlier!
Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars with Irresistible Glaze
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a greased or parchment-lined 9x13-inch baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Mix until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 22-25 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Prepare the glaze by browning unsalted butter in a saucepan and whisking together with powdered sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla paste.
- Once the donut bars are cooled, pour the glaze over the top and allow to set before slicing.
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