Standing in my kitchen, the warm scent of spices entwined with sweet butter fills the air, transporting me back to lazy Sunday mornings. It’s the perfect moment for making Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars, a nostalgic treat I can’t resist. With their tender crumb and that indulgent Brown Butter Maple Vanilla Bean Glaze, these bars have quickly become a go-to recipe for both brunch and those midday cravings. Not only are they a delightful twist on a classic, but they also come together in just a few simple steps, making them a breeze to whip up. Plus, who can say no to a dessert that brings loved ones together around the table? Ready to dive into this irresistible baking adventure? Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love These Donut Bars
Nostalgic Flavor: The delightful combination of buttermilk and nutmeg brings back fond memories of your favorite bakery treats.
Effortless Preparation: With simple steps and just a handful of ingredients, even novice bakers can enjoy success.
Versatile Customization: Want to mix it up? Add chocolate chips or experiment with almond extract for a fresh twist!
Perfectly Indulgent: Coated with a luscious Brown Butter Maple Vanilla Bean Glaze, each bite is a little slice of heaven.
Crowd Pleaser: Ideal for brunch gatherings or a cozy afternoon treat, these donut bars will disappear in no time—just like my favorite Cranberry Bliss Bars.
Enjoy the comforting charm of Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars and watch them become a staple in your kitchen!
Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars Ingredients
For the Donut Bars
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; substitute with a gluten-free blend if needed.
• Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent for light, fluffy bars.
• Baking Soda – Works alongside the acidity of buttermilk to help the bars rise.
• Ground Nutmeg – A must-have for that classic donut flavor and delightful aroma.
• Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• Unsalted Butter (softened) – Contributes to the bars’ rich flavor; ensure it’s at room temperature.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens and adds texture to the dough.
• Eggs – Bind ingredients for a tender crumb; use room-temperature eggs for the best results.
• Vanilla Extract – Deepens the flavor profile, making every bite delicious.
• Buttermilk – Keeps the bars exceptionally moist; substitute with milk mixed with vinegar or lemon juice for homemade buttermilk.
For the Brown Butter Maple Vanilla Bean Glaze
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the glaze to your desired consistency.
• Maple Syrup – Imparts a lovely sweetness and authentic flavor to the glaze.
• Vanilla Bean Paste – Elevates the aroma and flavor; you can use more vanilla extract if needed.
Get ready to delight in the flavors of these Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars and surprise your family with a classic treat they’ll cherish!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal later. This initial step ensures that your Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars bake evenly and rise beautifully in the oven.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground nutmeg, and salt. This blend of dry ingredients is essential for creating the perfect structure and flavor in your donuts. Mixing them well ensures that the leavening agents distribute evenly, giving your bars a fluffy texture.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, add the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Beat the mixture with an electric mixer on medium speed until it becomes light and fluffy, typically around 3-5 minutes. This step is critical for aerating the mixture, which helps to create those tender, luscious Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars that everyone loves.
Step 4: Incorporate the Eggs
Once your butter and sugar are creamed, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. After incorporating all the eggs, stir in the vanilla extract. This will enrich the flavor of your batter and add a lovely aroma, enhancing the classic taste of your donut bars.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gently mix the dry ingredients into the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start with about a third of the dry mix, then add half of the buttermilk, another third of the dry ingredients, and finally the remaining buttermilk and flour. Be careful not to over-mix—this is key for achieving that tender crumb in your Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars.
Step 6: Bake the Donut Bars
Spread the batter evenly in your prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 22-25 minutes. The bars are ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them as they bake—you’ll want a light golden color on top.
Step 7: Cool Completely
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Allowing the bars to cool is essential, as glazing them while warm could lead to a messy situation. This step will help you achieve that perfect, smooth finish later.
Step 8: Make the Brown Butter Maple Glaze
In a small saucepan, melt unsalted butter over medium heat until it turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma, about 5-7 minutes. Immediately remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla bean paste, adjusting with a splash of milk if needed for your desired consistency. The glaze should be velvety and ready to coat your donuts.
Step 9: Glaze the Bars
Finally, pour the warm glaze over the cooled Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the top and let it set for a few minutes before slicing into bars. This luscious glaze adds a beautiful finish, making your homemade treats irresistible to family and friends.
Make Ahead Options
These Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars are perfect for busy schedules and meal prep! You can bake the bars up to 3 days in advance; simply allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Make sure the glaze is added right before serving to maintain its luscious texture. If you prefer, you can also prepare the batter or individual components (like the glaze) up to 24 hours ahead—just refrigerate them separately. When you’re ready to enjoy, just glaze the bars after warming them slightly in the oven for a fresh-baked taste, saving you time while delivering deliciousness!
What to Serve with Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars
These delightful bars are perfect for creating a charming brunch experience that brings warmth and joy to your table.
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Fresh Berries: The tartness of strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries adds a refreshing contrast to the sweet glaze. A sprinkle of powdered sugar over the berries elevates the presentation beautifully.
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Greek Yogurt Parfaits: Creamy and tangy yogurt layered with granola and fruit offers a delightful balance to the sweetness of the donut bars, making for a satisfying brunch option.
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Coffee: A rich cup of your favorite brew complements the sweet and nutty flavors of the bars perfectly. The caffeine kick will help jumpstart your day.
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Chai Tea: Spiced chai adds an aromatic warmth, enhancing the cinnamon and nutmeg notes in your donut bars. Serve it steaming for a comforting touch.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: For a dessert twist, serve your donut bars warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess balances out the sweet glaze for an indulgent treat.
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: Enhance the maple flavor in the glaze by serving a small pitcher of warm maple syrup on the side. Guests can drizzle more as they desire for extra sweetness.
Elevate your brunch with these pairings that harmonize with the delightful Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars and create lasting memories around the table.
How to Store and Freeze Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars
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Room Temperature: Keep unopened Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps retain their tender texture and delicious flavor.
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Fridge: Store leftover bars in the fridge for up to a week in an airtight container. Chilling them can help maintain taste; simply let them come to room temperature before enjoying.
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Freezer: If you want to save some for later, freeze the unglazed bars for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. Just thaw and glaze before serving!
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Reheating: To warm a cold bar, simply microwave it for about 10-15 seconds. This revives their softness, making each bite as delightful as fresh-baked!
Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars Variations
Embrace your creativity in the kitchen with these delightful variations that will add even more charm to your Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars!
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Chocolate Chips: Add a handful of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips to the batter for an extra indulgent treat. The gooey chocolate perfectly complements the buttery glaze.
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Almond Extract: Swap out the vanilla extract for almond extract to give your bars an intriguing nutty flavor. This twist adds a delightful surprise that keeps everyone guessing!
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Chopped Nuts: Mix in some chopped walnuts or pecans for a nutty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the softness of the bars. The added texture is sure to elevate your donut experience.
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Spiced Infusion: Consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of cardamom to the batter. The warm spices will enhance the cozy flavors and bring comfort to your baking.
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Fruit Zest: Incorporate the zest of an orange or lemon into the batter for a citrusy freshness that brightens each bite. The zest adds an invigorating aroma and a lovely depth of flavor.
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Matcha Twist: For a fun green twist, include matcha powder in the glaze. The earthy notes will create a visually stunning and delicious variation that’s both trendy and tasty.
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Maple-Bacon: Get adventurous by mixing crispy cooked bacon bits into the glaze. The sweet maple glaze and salty bacon combination creates a mouthwatering treat that’s perfect for brunch gatherings.
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Coconut Flake: Top with shredded coconut before baking for a tropical flair. The coconut will toast slightly in the oven, adding an exotic flavor and a hint of crunch.
With endless possibilities, you can create a new favorite each time you make these Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars—just like how I can never resist the charm of my beloved Fritter Waffle Donuts. Enjoy experimenting!
Expert Tips for Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature eggs and butter ensures even mixing and a tender crumb in your Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars.
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Don’t Skip the Nutmeg: This spice is essential for recreating that beloved old-fashioned donut flavor. Omitting it can lead to a bland taste.
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Master the Toothpick Test: Check for doneness a couple of minutes early by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean for perfectly baked bars.
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Cool Before Glazing: Allow the bars to cool completely before glazing; glazing warm bars can result in a runny mess instead of a lovely finish.
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Store Properly: For maximum freshness, keep any leftovers in an airtight container. They stay delicious for up to 3 days at room temperature, or a week refrigerated.
Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! When buying buttermilk, look for a fresh, unexpired carton, and shake it before using to ensure it’s well-mixed. For eggs, choose ones that are clean and uncracked. If using vanilla beans, the pods should be plump and aromatic, indicating freshness. Lastly, make sure your ground nutmeg is not expired, as spices lose flavor over time.
How should I store leftover donut bars?
Very! To keep your Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their life, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just be sure to let them warm up to room temperature before enjoying; this helps retain their delightful softness.
Can I freeze these donut bars for later?
Absolutely! To freeze your Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars, first make sure they are fully cooled and unglazed. Wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge, glaze them, and they’ll taste just like fresh!
What should I do if my donut bars are too dense?
If your bars turn out denser than expected, there could be a couple of reasons. First, ensure you properly measured your flour—scooping can pack it down. Second, over-mixing the batter can develop gluten, leading to a denser texture. To avoid this, mix just until the ingredients are combined.
Are there any dietary concerns I should consider?
Very! If you’re baking for someone with dietary restrictions, feel free to substitute with gluten-free flour to accommodate gluten sensitivities. Additionally, for a dairy-free version, replace the buttermilk with a non-dairy milk mixed with vinegar (1 tablespoon of vinegar per cup of milk). Always double-check packaging on ingredients like vanilla extract to ensure they don’t contain any allergens.
What can I do if I don’t have certain ingredients?
Very! If you find yourself missing an ingredient like buttermilk, you can easily make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice; let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using. Similarly, use 1:1 ratios to substitute almond extract for vanilla, or explore swapping in other spices like cinnamon or cardamom for a unique twist!
Irresistible Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars to Savor
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9x13-inch baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground nutmeg, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Alternate mixing dry ingredients into the butter mixture with the buttermilk, starting and ending with dry ingredients. Do not over-mix.
- Spread the batter evenly in the baking pan and bake for 22-25 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the bars cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the glaze, melt unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat until golden brown. Whisk in powdered sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla bean paste adjusting with milk if needed.
- Pour the glaze over the cooled bars and spread evenly. Let set before slicing.
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