Busy moms know the joy of whipping up a delicious treat without spending all day in the kitchen. Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars with Brown Butter Maple Vanilla Bean Glaze offer that perfect blend of classic flavors in a kid-friendly format. These soft, sweet bars invoke nostalgia while being easy to grab on the go. Plus, who can resist the smell of fresh-baked donuts coming from the oven?
Table of Contents
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This recipe makes life easier for families in so many ways. First, it requires minimal prep time, allowing you to fit baking into your busy schedule. These donut bars are comforting and satisfying, making them a hit with both kids and adults alike.
With just one pan involved, cleanup is a breeze. Mixing, pouring, and baking means less fuss and more fun. You can serve them as a sweet breakfast, an after-school snack, or even as an indulgent dessert.
How to Make Buttermilk Vanilla Bean Donut Bars
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup brown butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate large bowl, cream together the sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Mix in the egg, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- While the bars are baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together brown butter, powdered sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla bean paste until smooth.
- Once the bars are done, let them cool for a few minutes before cutting them into bars. Drizzle the glaze over the warm bars before serving.
Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars with Brown Butter Maple Vanilla Bean Glaze
Delicious donut bars with a nostalgic flavor, perfect for breakfast or a sweet treat on the go.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup brown butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate large bowl, cream together the sugar and butter until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the egg, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- While the bars are baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together brown butter, powdered sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla bean paste until smooth.
- Once the bars are done, let them cool for a few minutes before cutting them into bars.
- Drizzle the glaze over the warm bars before serving.
Notes
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
How to Serve
These Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars are versatile. Serve them still warm for breakfast alongside coffee or tea for you and a glass of milk for the kids. Pack them for lunch as a sweet treat or offer them as an after-dinner dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. These bars feel special enough for gatherings yet simple enough for everyday enjoyment.
How to Store
Store the donut bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate, and they will last up to a week. To enjoy them warm again, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.
Tips and Variations
Make this recipe your own with easy variations. Add chocolate chips, nuts, or fruit to the batter for extra flavor and texture. You can replace the maple syrup in the glaze with honey or agave for a different sweetness. If you want a lighter version, use half whole wheat flour for the balance.
FAQs
Can I use almond milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes! Almond milk can work, but for the best flavor, add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to replicate buttermilk’s tang.
Can I freeze these donut bars?
Absolutely. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge before enjoying.
How can I make the glaze thicker?
To thicken the glaze, add more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.
Conclusion
These Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars with Brown Butter Maple Vanilla Bean Glaze make a delightful treat that brings comfort and joy to your family. With their simple preparation and indulgent flavors, they are perfect for busy days. Make sure to try this recipe and save it for later; your family will thank you!
