Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars with Brown Butter Maple Vanilla Bean Glaze

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings back memories of warm, cozy mornings, then you’ve come to the right place! These Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars with Brown Butter Maple Vanilla Bean Glaze are truly special. They remind me of my grandmother’s kitchen, where the aroma of freshly baked donuts would fill the air, inviting everyone to gather around.

This recipe is perfect for all occasions — whether it’s a lazy Sunday brunch, a holiday breakfast, or simply a sweet treat after a busy day. With their tender crumb and rich glaze, these donut bars are sure to make your heart feel warm and your taste buds sing!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: These donut bars come together quickly, making them perfect for busy mornings or last-minute gatherings.
• Family Favorite: Everyone loves donuts! These bars are sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake them ahead of time and enjoy fresh donuts whenever you crave them.
• Deliciously Indulgent: The combination of buttermilk and brown butter glaze creates a flavor explosion that you won’t be able to resist!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun! For these Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars with Brown Butter Maple Vanilla Bean Glaze, you’ll need simple, wholesome ingredients that might already be in your pantry.

For the Donut Bars

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¾ cup buttermilk

For the Glaze

• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
• 1 tsp vanilla bean paste (or vanilla extract)
• 1–2 tbsp milk (for thinning, as needed)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to put your own spin on these delicious donut bars:

• Add Chocolate Chips: Mix in some chocolate chips for an extra sweet surprise.
• Spice it Up: Add a dash of cinnamon or pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist.
• Fruit Infusion: Fold in fresh blueberries or raspberries for a fruity touch.
• Nutty Flavor: Sprinkle chopped nuts into the batter for added crunch and flavor.

How to Make Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars with Brown Butter Maple Vanilla Bean Glaze

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

First things first: preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing a 9×13-inch baking pan or lining it with parchment paper will help ensure that your donut bars come out perfectly without sticking. I fondly remember my grandmother taking this little extra step — it makes all the difference!

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground nutmeg, and salt. The nutmeg here is essential; it adds that nostalgic donut-shop aroma that will make everyone swoon when they smell it baking.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it helps create that tender texture we all love in baked goods. Once combined, add in each egg one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract — trust me; this step adds layers of flavor.

Step 4: Add the Buttermilk and Dry Ingredients

Now comes the fun part! Alternate adding your dry mixture with buttermilk to the butter mixture, always starting and ending with flour. Mix gently until just combined; overmixing can lead to dense bars — we want them light and fluffy!

Step 5: Bake the Donut Bars

Spread your batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth out the top. Bake them for 22-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Patience is key here! Let them cool completely before glazing; it allows those flavors to settle beautifully.

Step 6: Make the Brown Butter Maple Vanilla Bean Glaze

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt your butter until it turns golden brown and gives off a nutty aroma—keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn! Remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla bean paste. If your glaze feels too thick, add just a splash of milk until you reach that perfect drizzly consistency.

Step 7: Glaze the Bars

Pour that glorious warm glaze over your cooled donut bars. Spread it evenly so every bite is coated in sweetness! After about 10-15 minutes of letting it set, slice them up into generous rectangles like my grandmother used to do — though feel free to cut smaller pieces if you’re sharing with friends!

And there you have it — your very own Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars with Brown Butter Maple Vanilla Bean Glaze! Enjoy every bite as you create new memories around your kitchen table.

Pro Tips for Making Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars with Brown Butter Maple Vanilla Bean Glaze

Baking these delightful donut bars is a joyful experience, and a few pro tips can help make them even more special!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Allowing your butter and eggs to reach room temperature helps them incorporate smoothly into the batter, resulting in a lighter texture.

• Don’t skip the nutmeg: This fragrant spice is essential for that classic old-fashioned donut flavor. A little goes a long way in evoking nostalgia.

• Check for doneness carefully: Ovens can vary, so start checking your bars a couple of minutes early. A toothpick should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.

• Let the glaze cool slightly before pouring: If you pour the glaze on while it’s too hot, it may run off rather than set nicely on top. Wait until it’s warm but not bubbling.

• Store properly for freshness: Keep any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for up to a week. They also freeze well if you want to save some for later!

How to Serve Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars with Brown Butter Maple Vanilla Bean Glaze

These donut bars are perfect for any occasion, and presenting them in an inviting way makes them even more irresistible!

Garnishes

• Chopped pecans or walnuts: Sprinkling some chopped nuts on top adds a delightful crunch and enhances the nutty flavor of the brown butter glaze.

• Fresh berries: A handful of juicy raspberries or blueberries not only adds color but also provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet glaze.

Side Dishes

• Freshly brewed coffee: The rich flavors of coffee perfectly complement the sweetness of the donuts, making for an ideal breakfast pairing.

• Fruit salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad balances out the richness of the donut bars, adding a burst of freshness to your brunch spread.

• Yogurt parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and honey offers creaminess and crunch that pairs beautifully with these tender bars.

• Herbal tea: For those who prefer something soothing, a cup of herbal tea can be the perfect accompaniment to enjoy alongside these decadent treats.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to create memorable moments around your kitchen table! Enjoy every bite of these Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars with Brown Butter Maple Vanilla Bean Glaze as you share them with loved ones.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars are not only delightful to eat but also perfect for meal prep! You can whip them up ahead of time and enjoy their deliciousness throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cooled donut bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator, where they can last up to a week.
• If you notice any excess moisture, place a paper towel inside the container to absorb it.

Freezing

• Cut the donut bars into squares or rectangles before freezing for easy access.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just make sure to label with the date!

Reheating

• To enjoy your donut bars warm, simply microwave one for about 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place them on a baking sheet for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Avoid reheating too long to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making these delicious donut bars!

Can I make Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars with Brown Butter Maple Vanilla Bean Glaze gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum or add it separately for better texture.

How do I store Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars with Brown Butter Maple Vanilla Bean Glaze?

Store the glazed donut bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge or freeze them.

What can I use instead of buttermilk in this recipe?

You can create a buttermilk substitute by mixing ¾ cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using!

Can I add flavors or spices to my donut bars?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment by adding cinnamon, cardamom, or even chocolate chips to the batter for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

Baking these Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars with Brown Butter Maple Vanilla Bean Glaze is not just about treating yourself; it’s about creating memories that will last a lifetime. Each bite carries the warmth of tradition and love. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I did — it’s a delightful way to bring family together around the table. Don’t forget to share your creations with loved ones and savor every moment spent enjoying these sweet treats!