There’s something undeniably nostalgic about old-fashioned buttermilk donut bars. Just saying the words brings back memories of cozy mornings at my grandmother’s farmhouse, where the scent of frying dough would drift through the kitchen before the sun had fully risen. She believed that weekends were for slowing down, for gathering family around the kitchen table, and for indulging in simple pleasures like homemade donuts — especially the kind dipped in a rich glaze, warm and dripping, waiting to be devoured with a hot cup of coffee or milk.
These donut bars are a tribute to that timeless tradition. The tang of buttermilk gives them a tender crumb, while the deep, nutty brown butter in the maple vanilla bean glaze takes them to a whole new level of indulgence. This isn’t just a recipe — it’s an invitation to pause, bake something special, and create the kind of memories that linger long after the last crumb is gone. Whether you’re making them for a weekend brunch, a holiday breakfast, or just because, these old-fashioned buttermilk donut bars are sure to become a treasured part of your baking repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These old-fashioned buttermilk donut bars are the perfect blend of classic comfort and elevated flavor. The buttermilk keeps the bars soft and moist, while the brown butter glaze adds a complex, caramelized richness. Plus, baking them as bars rather than frying individual donuts makes them easier and less messy — no deep fryer required.
They’re ideal for sharing at family brunches, gifting to neighbors, or enjoying as a treat with your morning coffee. Once you try them, you’ll understand why they’ve earned a permanent spot in our weekend rotation.
There’s something undeniably nostalgic about old-fashioned buttermilk donut bars. Just saying the words brings back memories of cozy mornings at my grandmother’s farmhouse, where the scent of frying dough would drift through the kitchen before the sun had fully risen. She believed that weekends were for slowing down, for gathering family around the kitchen table, and for indulging in simple pleasures like homemade donuts — especially the kind dipped in a rich glaze, warm and dripping, waiting to be devoured with a hot cup of coffee or milk.
These donut bars are a tribute to that timeless tradition. The tang of buttermilk gives them a tender crumb, while the deep, nutty brown butter in the maple vanilla bean glaze takes them to a whole new level of indulgence. This isn’t just a recipe — it’s an invitation to pause, bake something special, and create the kind of memories that linger long after the last crumb is gone. Whether you’re making them for a weekend brunch, a holiday breakfast, or just because, these old-fashioned buttermilk donut bars are sure to become a treasured part of your baking repertoire.
Ingredients
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 Brown Butter Maple Vanilla Bean 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)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. I remember watching my grandmother carefully butter every corner of her pan, making sure nothing stuck. It’s worth the few extra moments. -
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, nutmeg, and salt. The nutmeg is key here — it’s what gives these old-fashioned buttermilk donut bars that classic donut-shop aroma. -
Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step creates that tender, cakey texture. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in the vanilla extract. -
Add the Buttermilk and Dry Ingredients
Alternate adding the flour mixture and the buttermilk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the flour. Mix just until combined — don’t overmix, or your bars might turn out dense. -
Bake the Donut Bars
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 22–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the bars cool completely before glazing. -
Make the Brown Butter Maple Vanilla Bean Glaze
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat and continue cooking until it turns golden brown and smells nutty — watch it closely, as it can burn quickly. Remove from heat and whisk in the powdered sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla bean paste. Add a splash of milk if the glaze seems too thick.
-
Glaze the Bars
Pour the warm glaze over the cooled bars, spreading it evenly. Let the glaze set for about 10–15 minutes before slicing. I like to cut these into generous rectangles, just like my grandmother did, but you can cut them smaller if you’re serving a crowd.
Notes
These old-fashioned buttermilk donut bars taste best the day they’re made but will keep well for a couple of days if stored properly. You can also freeze them (without glaze) and frost them fresh when ready to serve.
INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED
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 Brown Butter Maple Vanilla Bean 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)
How to Make Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars
Making old-fashioned buttermilk donut bars is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps and you’ll have a batch of golden, glazed bars ready to enjoy.
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
- Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. I remember watching my grandmother carefully butter every corner of her pan, making sure nothing stuck. It’s worth the few extra moments. - Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, nutmeg, and salt. The nutmeg is key here — it’s what gives these old-fashioned buttermilk donut bars that classic donut-shop aroma. - Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step creates that tender, cakey texture. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in the vanilla extract. - Add the Buttermilk and Dry Ingredients
Alternate adding the flour mixture and the buttermilk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the flour. Mix just until combined — don’t overmix, or your bars might turn out dense.
- Bake the Donut Bars
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 22–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the bars cool completely before glazing. - Make the Brown Butter Maple Vanilla Bean Glaze
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat and continue cooking until it turns golden brown and smells nutty — watch it closely, as it can burn quickly. Remove from heat and whisk in the powdered sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla bean paste. Add a splash of milk if the glaze seems too thick. - Glaze the Bars
Pour the warm glaze over the cooled bars, spreading it evenly. Let the glaze set for about 10–15 minutes before slicing. I like to cut these into generous rectangles, just like my grandmother did, but you can cut them smaller if you’re serving a crowd.
Helpful Tips
- Don’t skip the nutmeg — it’s essential for that authentic old-fashioned flavor.
- Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter and even baking.
- Brown the butter carefully — stir constantly and remove from heat as soon as it smells nutty and turns golden.
- If you want extra texture, sprinkle chopped toasted pecans or walnuts over the glaze before it sets.
DETAILS
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
NOTES
These old-fashioned buttermilk donut bars taste best the day they’re made but will keep well for a couple of days if stored properly. You can also freeze them (without glaze) and frost them fresh when ready to serve.
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
(Per bar, approximate)
Calories: 320
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 4g
Sugar: 24g
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Bake the bars the day before and store them covered. Add the glaze just before serving for the best texture.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of buttermilk?
You can substitute plain Greek yogurt mixed with a bit of milk, but the flavor and texture will be slightly different.
How do I know when the brown butter is ready?
It will turn golden and smell nutty, with small browned bits at the bottom of the pan. Be sure to watch it closely so it doesn’t burn.
STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS
Store the glazed donut bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the unglazed bars and glaze them fresh after thawing.
CONCLUSION
Old-fashioned buttermilk donut bars with brown butter maple vanilla bean glaze are the kind of treat that fills your home with warmth and your heart with nostalgia. Whether you’re reviving a family tradition or creating new weekend rituals, these bars promise moments of joy in every bite. So gather your ingredients, set aside a little time, and let the magic of homemade baking bring comfort to your table.