Description
These tender buttermilk donut bars offer a nostalgic, sweet-tangy flavor perfect for breakfast or snacks. With a soft texture and maple glaze finish, they’re fuss-free to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
2½ cups cake flour (or all-purpose flour)
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp ground nutmeg
½ tsp salt
½ cup butter, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar, or a mix of half granulated and half brown sugar
2 eggs, plus an optional extra yolk
1 tsp vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
¾ cup buttermilk
Oil for frying (neutral oil like avocado or vegetable)
For the brown butter maple glaze:
½ cup butter
1½ cups powdered sugar
2 tbsp maple syrup
1 tsp vanilla bean paste (or extract)
1–2 tbsp milk, as needed to adjust glaze consistency
Instructions
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, nutmeg, and salt.
In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs (and extra yolk, if using) one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet, alternating with the buttermilk. Stop mixing once just combined.
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and roll to ¾-inch thickness. Use a donut cutter to shape or cut into bar shapes with a knife.
Heat oil in a frying pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry each donut bar until golden on each side (about 2–3 minutes per side). Transfer to a wire rack to drain.
While the bars cook, prepare the glaze: melt butter in a pan until golden and nutty, then whisk in powdered sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla. Add milk to achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency.
Dip each donut bar into the glaze or drizzle over them. Cool completely before serving.
Notes
For a lighter texture, use cake flour.
Adjust frying oil as needed to a clean flavor, such as rice bran or coconut oil for halal preferences.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for 5 days.
Optional: Add sprinkles or chopped nuts to the dough for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American