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

Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars with Brown Butter Glaze

These Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars with Brown Butter Maple Vanilla Bean Glaze offer nostalgic comfort in every bite.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 220
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Donut Bars
  • 2 cups All-Purpose Flour Substitution: Gluten-free flour blend (ensure it includes xanthan gum).
  • 1 tbsp Baking Powder Ensure it's fresh for best results.
  • 1 tsp Baking Soda No direct substitution; it's integral for the recipe.
  • 1 tsp Ground Nutmeg Essential for authenticity; don’t skip.
  • 1/2 tsp Salt A pinch elevates sweetness.
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Can substitute with margarine, but flavor will vary.
  • 1 cup Granulated Sugar Can use light brown sugar for added flavor.
  • 2 large Eggs Room temperature eggs mix more easily; can substitute with flaxseed meal for vegan option.
  • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract Use pure vanilla for the best taste; imitation can be substituted in a pinch.
  • 1 cup Buttermilk Can make your own by mixing milk with vinegar or lemon juice.
For the Glaze
  • 2 cups Powdered Sugar Can substitute with coconut sugar for a less sweet topping.
  • 1/4 cup Maple Syrup Honey or agave syrup can be alternatives.
  • 2 tbsp Vanilla Bean Paste Use pure vanilla extract for a simpler choice.

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • hand mixer or stand mixer
  • Whisk
  • Spatula
  • toothpick
  • Saucepan

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground nutmeg, and salt.
  3. In a separate large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the pure vanilla extract.
  5. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk, mixing just until combined.
  6. Pour the batter into the baking pan and smooth out the top. Bake for 22-25 minutes.
  7. Cool the bars in the pan before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
  8. Prepare the glaze by browning the butter and whisking in powdered sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla bean paste until smooth.
  9. Once cooled, pour the glaze over the bars and let it set before cutting into rectangles.

Nutrition

Serving: 1barCalories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 2gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 90mgFiber: 1gSugar: 14gVitamin A: 300IUCalcium: 30mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week. To freeze, wrap each bar individually and store in a resealable freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.

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