As the warm aroma of freshly fried treats fills the air, I’m transported to a time when dessert was as simple as indulging in a timeless classic. These Old Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars capture that nostalgic essence, offering the tender crumb and delightful tang we all cherish—but in a wonderfully convenient bar form. The best part? They’re easy to whip up and perfect for sharing at breakfast, brunch, or just because you can’t resist a sweet snack. With the added joy of customizing glazes and toppings, this recipe allows your creativity to shine. Are you ready to take a trip down memory lane, one delicious bite at a time?

Why Are These Donut Bars So Special?

Comforting Nostalgia: Each bite of these Old Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars takes you back to cherished childhood moments filled with warmth and sweetness. Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, this recipe is perfect for both kitchen beginners and seasoned bakers. Customizable Fun: Dress them up with colorful glazes or sprinkle toppings to match any occasion, whether it’s a festive gathering or a cozy family breakfast. Versatile Enjoyment: Enjoy them warm with a cup of coffee or alongside fresh berries—ideal for breakfast, dessert, or simply a delightful snack. And for more delicious homemade treats, check out Homemade Strawberry Bars for more sweet indulgences!

Old Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars Ingredients

For the Donut Bars

Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; can substitute with margarine or plant-based butter for a dairy-free option.
Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and structure; brown sugar can be used for a deeper flavor.
Large Eggs – Binds ingredients together and contributes to texture; try using flax eggs for a vegan version.
Pure Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor complexity; almond extract makes for an interesting twist.
All-Purpose Flour – The main structure of the bars; gluten-free flour blends can replace but may need extra binding agents.
Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Essential leavening agents; ensure they are fresh for the best rise.
Salt – Balances sweetness and elevates flavors; opt for sea salt or kosher salt for variety.
Freshly Grated Nutmeg – Adds warmth and a hint of spice; ground nutmeg can be used in a pinch, but fresh is preferred.
Buttermilk – Contributes moisture and tang; you can make a substitute with regular milk mixed with vinegar or lemon juice.
Vegetable or Canola Oil – Used for frying; peanut oil can be a great alternative for a higher smoke point.

For the Glaze

Confectioners’ Sugar – Sweet component for the glaze; you can swap with powdered sweeteners for a lower sugar option.
Whole Milk/Heavy Cream – Provides creaminess for the glaze; a dairy-free milk works well for a vegan option.

These Old Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars are bound to bring joy to every gathering and make your kitchen smell heavenly!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Old Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars

Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of salt, and a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg. This mix forms the foundation of your Old Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars, contributing to their tender texture. Set this dry blend aside while you move on to the next step.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a stand mixer, beat ½ cup of unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar on medium speed until the mixture is fluffy and pale, about 4-5 minutes. Then, add 2 large eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract to infuse delightful flavor into your batter.

Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk
Gradually add the prepared dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with ½ cup of buttermilk. Begin and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix; the dough should remain soft and slightly sticky. This step is vital for achieving the light texture of your Old Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars.

Step 4: Chill the Dough
Form the combined dough into a rectangle, approximately 1-inch thick, and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results. Chilling the dough not only makes it easier to roll out later but also helps develop the flavors, resulting in a more delicious bar.

Step 5: Roll and Cut the Dough
After chilling, remove the dough from the refrigerator. Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the dough to about ½ inch thick. Using a sharp knife or pastry cutter, cut the dough into rectangular shapes, keeping them uniform to ensure even frying. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet until ready for frying.

Step 6: Heat the Oil
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer, pour in enough vegetable or canola oil to fill it about 2 inches deep, and heat to 350°F (175°C) over medium-high heat. Use a candy thermometer for accurate readings. The oil should shimmer and be hot enough to fry your Old Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars, resulting in a crispy exterior.

Step 7: Fry the Donut Bars
Carefully add a few donut bars to the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for about 1-2 minutes on each side, until they turn golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bars to a wire rack to drain any excess oil, ensuring they remain light and fluffy.

Step 8: Prepare the Glaze
While the bars are cooling slightly, whisk together 1 cup of confectioners’ sugar and 2 tablespoons of whole milk or heavy cream until smooth. Adjust the glaze’s consistency by adding more milk for a thinner glaze, or more sugar for thicker. This sweet addition will enhance your donut bars beautifully.

Step 9: Glaze the Bars
Once the bars are just warm, dip the tops into the glaze, allowing the excess to drip off. Place the glazed bars back on the wire rack, letting them sit until the glaze firms up nicely. The final touch of the glaze will make your Old Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars irresistible and perfectly sweet!

Make Ahead Options

These Old Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing busy home cooks to save time during the week! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by chilling it in the refrigerator, ensuring a flavorful result that’s just as delicious. Simply roll and cut the bars after chilling. For best quality, store the shaped bars in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to fry. If you want to take it a step further, you can fry the bars up to 3 days before serving; just reheat them in a warm oven to regain that wonderful crispness before glazing. These simple steps will have you enjoying homemade treats without the hassle on busy mornings!

What to Serve with Old Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars

Delight your family and friends by pairing these delectable bars with complementary flavors and textures that enhance their nostalgic charm.

Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or tart raspberries brighten up your plate and add a refreshing contrast to the sweet bars.
Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layered with granola and fruit, this snack adds crunch and a creamy element that balances the sweetness.
Coffee or Tea: A cup of rich coffee or soothing herbal tea enhances the donut bars’ warm, comforting vibe. The perfect afternoon pick-me-up!
Maple Glaze Drizzle: Take it a step further by drizzling with maple syrup for a unique twist; the flavors meld beautifully, evoking breakfast nostalgia.
Chocolate Sauce: A side of warm chocolate sauce for dunking creates a fun and indulgent dessert experience; it’s a chocolate lover’s dream!

Serving these Old Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars alongside these delightful options creates memorable moments perfect for any occasion.

Storage Tips for Old Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars

Room Temperature: Store the donut bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft texture and fresh flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, individually wrap the Old Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To enjoy, simply thaw the bars at room temperature or reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds until warm, ensuring a delightful, fresh taste.

Glazing Tip: If you plan to freeze them, consider glazing after thawing to maintain the glaze’s texture and prevent it from becoming soggy during storage.

Expert Tips for Old Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars

Temperature Check: Ensure your oil is at 350°F (175°C) for even frying; too low and bars will absorb oil, too high and they’ll burn.

Chill Time: Don’t skip the chilling step! Properly chilled dough creates a tender bar and helps maintain shape during frying.

Batch Frying: Avoid overcrowding the pot while frying. This allows for perfect cooking and prevents a drop in oil temperature.

Mixing Caution: Mix your batter just enough to combine the ingredients for light and fluffy donut bars; overmixing can lead to a dense texture.

Glaze Variations: Feel free to customize the glaze with flavors like almond or citrus zest to match your personal taste with these Old Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars.

Old Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars Variations

Get creative and put your unique spin on these delightful bars by exploring fun flavor and texture variations!

Citrus Twist: Add zest from orange or lemon into the dough for a refreshing, aromatic flavor that brightens every bite.
Chocolate Glaze: Swap the vanilla glaze for a rich chocolate glaze to satisfy any chocolate lover’s sweet tooth.
Maple Flavor: Infuse your glaze with maple syrup for a warm, comforting twist that captures fall flavors beautifully.
Nutty Crunch: Top bars with finely chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for added texture and delicious nutty richness.
Spiced Delight: Incorporate ground cinnamon or cardamom into the dough to create a warm spice profile that warms the soul.
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute butter with plant-based butter and use dairy-free milk for both the glaze and buttermilk, ensuring everyone can enjoy them!
Fruity Garnish: Add fresh fruit toppings, like strawberries or raspberries, on the glazed bars for a pop of color and a fruity punch to each mouthful.
Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use maple syrup or agave instead of sugar for a vegan-friendly treat without compromising flavor.

Remember, these delightful additions will elevate your Old Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars, creating endless ways to enjoy them. For more tasty treats, don’t miss out on the irresistible Homemade Strawberry Bars or the delightful Yogurt Granola Bars!

Old Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars Recipe FAQs

What type of buttermilk should I use for the donuts?
Absolutely! You can use store-bought buttermilk for ease, but if you don’t have any, a simple homemade substitute works great. Just mix 1 cup of regular milk with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This will give you that delightful tang that makes these Old Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars so special.

How should I store the donut bars once they’re made?
For sure! Store your Old Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps them maintain their moist and tender texture. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them—just wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll be good for about 2 months!

Can I freeze the dough before frying?
Yes, indeed! If you want to prepare ahead, after chilling the dough, you can roll and cut it into bars, then arrange them on a baking sheet. Wrap the sheet in plastic wrap and freeze the bars. Once fully frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to fry, you can fry them straight from the freezer—just add an extra minute or two to the frying time!

What should I do if my donut bars turn out dense?
Very good question! If your Old Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars are dense, it could be from overmixing the batter. Be sure to combine ingredients just until mixed, and keep an eye on the leavening agents like baking powder and baking soda; they should be fresh for a good rise. Additionally, make sure your dough is well-chilled before frying, as this helps keep them light and fluffy!

Can these donut bars be made dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can make these Old Fashioned Buttermilk Donut Bars dairy-free by substituting the buttermilk with a dairy-free alternative. Use 1 cup of soy milk or almond milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of vinegar to replicate buttermilk. For the other dairy ingredients, consider using plant-based butter and a dairy-free cream or milk for the glaze. Enjoy customizing this recipe to suit your dietary preferences!