There’s something undeniably enchanting about the process of making your own Buttermilk Bar Doughnuts. On a lazy Sunday morning, the kitchen becomes a canvas, filled with the sweet scent of vanilla and warm butter, beckoning you to create something truly special. As I gathered the ingredients—cake flour, buttermilk, and butter—I couldn’t help but feel excited about the delight that awaited us. These doughnuts aren’t just a treat; they transform any ordinary day into a celebration.
When I first stumbled across this recipe, I never expected it to become a staple in my home. As I mixed the creamy batter and felt the dough come together, I realized these doughnuts would soon be the star of our brunch table. With crispy edges and a melt-in-your-mouth glaze, they offer a delightful contrast to the humdrum of fast food and store-bought treats. Best of all, they’re surprisingly easy to whip up, perfect for impressing family and friends without a stressful kitchen marathon. Get ready to indulge in homemade happiness with these Buttermilk Bar Doughnuts!
Why are Buttermilk Bar Doughnuts a must-try?
Irresistible flavor: The creamy buttermilk and hint of vanilla create a rich taste that’s hard to resist.
Quick to make: In just 55 minutes, you can enjoy homemade delights that rival any bakery.
Perfect for sharing: With 18 servings, these doughnuts are a crowd-pleaser at brunches or gatherings.
Easy preparation: Even beginner bakers can master this recipe with simple steps and minimal tools.
Transform your mornings: Enjoy a café-quality treat from the comfort of your home, making every morning special.
Dive into the joy of baking and discover how to make these tasty treats with my detailed instructions!
Buttermilk Bar Doughnut Ingredients
For the Dough
• Cake flour – this gives the doughnuts their light, fluffy texture.
• Baking powder – provides the perfect rise, making your doughnuts pillowy.
• Baking soda – balances the acidity of the buttermilk for optimal flavor.
• Salt – enhances the sweetness, bringing out the rich flavors.
• Granulated sugar – sweetens the dough, giving your doughnuts that irresistible taste.
• Vanilla paste or extract – adds a deep, aromatic flavor that pairs beautifully with buttermilk.
• Shortening – creates a tender crumb in your doughnuts (you can substitute with butter for a richer flavor).
• Butter, melted – brings a rich, buttery taste to the dough.
• Egg yolks – enrich the dough, providing moisture and richness.
• Buttermilk, room temperature – adds tang and helps achieve that iconic flavor and texture.
For the Glaze
• Confectioners’ sugar, sifted – ensures a smooth glaze that drapes over your doughnuts.
• Vanilla bean paste or extract – imparts an extra layer of flavor, making the glaze truly special.
• Warm water – helps achieve the right consistency for a glossy finish.
Delight in the ease of making these Buttermilk Bar Doughnuts, bringing the warmth of homemade treats right into your kitchen!
How to Make Buttermilk Bar Doughnuts
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Sift Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift or whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This helps to aerate the flour for light, fluffy doughnuts.
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Cream Ingredients: Using a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, combine the granulated sugar, vanilla, shortening, and melted butter on medium speed until creamy—about 3 minutes. Remember to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
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Incorporate Egg Yolks: With the mixer on low, add the room temperature egg yolks, one at a time. Mix well after each addition, then add the buttermilk and blend until everything is well combined.
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Add Dry Ingredients: With the mixer still on low speed, add the dry ingredients all at once. Mix until just incorporated, using a rubber spatula to scrape down any flour clinging to the bowl. Cover the dough and refrigerate for 30-60 minutes.
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Shape the Dough: On a heavily floured surface, turn out the chilled dough. Pat it into a rectangle about 1/2″ thick and 3 1/2″ wide. Cut into bars measuring 3 1/2″ by 1 1/2″ by 1/2″. Don’t forget to make a light indentation in each bar.
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Heat Oil: Fill a large, heavy pot with 6 cups of shortening and heat over medium-high until the oil reaches 350°F. Use a thermometer to ensure accurate temperature.
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Prepare Cooling Rack: Line a cooling rack with a thick layer of paper towels to absorb any excess oil after frying.
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Fry the Doughnuts: Carefully place one bar into the hot oil, bottom side down. Fry for 1 to 2 minutes until golden brown, gently flip, and fry for another 1 to 2 minutes. Transfer to the prepared cooling rack.
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Cool Completely: Allow the fried bars to come to room temperature before glazing—this helps the glaze adhere better.
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Make the Glaze: In a bowl, whisk together the sifted confectioners’ sugar, vanilla paste or extract, and warm water until shiny and smooth.
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Glaze the Doughnuts: Dunk each bar, top side down, into the glaze. Place back on the cooling rack until the glaze sets, about 4-5 minutes.
Optional: Add colorful sprinkles on top of the glaze for a festive touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Buttermilk Bar Doughnuts are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prep the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following steps 1 through 4, then covering it securely with plastic wrap and refrigerating. When you’re ready to fry, simply roll out the dough, cut it into bars, and follow the frying instructions as usual. To maintain their delicious texture, make sure to fry them fresh on the day you plan to serve. Glazing can be done right after frying for a shiny finish. Enjoy the convenience of having your homemade doughnuts ready for brunch with minimal morning stress!
How to Store and Freeze Buttermilk Bar Doughnuts
Room Temperature: Store unrefrigerated doughnuts in an airtight container or covered with foil for up to 2 days to retain freshness.
Fridge: Keep doughnuts in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Use parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unglazed doughnuts in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy frozen doughnuts, thaw at room temperature or heat in a microwave for 10-15 seconds. Once thawed, glaze and serve!
What to Serve with Buttermilk Bar Donuts?
Transform your delightful morning into an unforgettable experience with perfect accompaniments that elevate your homemade treats.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful medley of juicy fruits adds a refreshing contrast and brightens up your meal.
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Rich Coffee or Latte: The bold flavors of coffee enhance the sweetness of the doughnuts, making each bite even more indulgent.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream served alongside the warm doughnuts creates a delightful warmth-coolness combination that’s hard to resist.
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: Adding a touch of pure maple syrup brings out the sweetness, making each doughnut even more luscious and comforting.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream is perfect for dipping or spreading on the doughnuts, adding a silky texture that pairs wonderfully with the glaze.
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Chocolate Milk: A nostalgic pairing, chocolate milk brings a fun twist to your breakfast or brunch, balancing sweetness with a rich, chocolaty goodness.
Enjoy the magic of combining flavors and textures, creating a festive spread that turns any occasion into a celebration!
Helpful Tricks for Buttermilk Bar Doughnuts
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Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough for 30-60 minutes ensures that your doughnuts retain their shape and prevent excess oil absorption during frying.
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Temperature Check: Always use a thermometer to check that the oil reaches 350°F. Too hot, and the outside will burn while the inside remains raw; too cool, and your doughnuts will absorb too much oil.
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Avoid Overmixing: Mix the dough just until combined after adding the dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to dense doughnuts rather than light and fluffy ones.
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Indentation Matters: Make a light indentation in each dough bar to help with even frying and to create a perfect canvas for the glaze.
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Fresh Glaze: Whisk your glaze right before dunking the doughnuts to ensure a smooth and shiny finish. If it thickens, add a bit more warm water for the ideal consistency.
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Glaze Quickly: Dunk the doughnuts in the glaze while they’re still cool, allowing for a vibrant coating that sets beautifully. Enjoy the heavenly taste of these Buttermilk Bar Doughnuts!
Buttermilk Bar Doughnut Variations
Feel free to let your creativity flow as you customize these delightful treats with these easy swaps!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute cake flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for deliciously tender doughnuts.
- Vegan: Use almond milk and a flax egg instead of buttermilk and egg yolks for a plant-based version. The flavor remains surprisingly delightful!
- Spiced: Add 1 tsp of cinnamon and 1/2 tsp of nutmeg to the dough for a cozy autumn twist. Your kitchen will smell divine!
- Chocolate Lover: Mix in 1/2 cup of cocoa powder into the dough for a rich chocolate version, then use chocolate glaze for extra indulgence.
- Citrus Zest: Incorporate the zest of an orange or lemon into the dough for a refreshing citrus flavor that cuts through the sweetness. Pure sunshine!
- Maple Glaze: Replace vanilla in your glaze with pure maple syrup for a unique and flavor-packed twist. You’ll love the warmth it adds!
- Nutty Crunch: Fold in 1/2 cup of finely chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts into the dough for an appealing texture contrast.
- Berry Burst: Top with a berry compote instead of glaze for a fresh, fruity kick that brightens your doughnuts. Perfect for summer mornings!
Buttermilk Bar Doughnuts Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right buttermilk for my doughnuts?
Absolutely! When selecting buttermilk, look for a fully cultured variety, as it has a thicker consistency and provides the best flavor. You can also make your own by adding a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of milk and letting it sit for about 10 minutes.
What’s the best way to store leftover Buttermilk Bar Doughnuts?
To keep your doughnuts fresh at room temperature, place them in an airtight container or cover them with foil for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just a tip: layer them with parchment paper to avoid sticking!
Can I freeze Buttermilk Bar Doughnuts, and how?
Very! For freezing, lay the unglazed doughnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature and glaze as desired!
What should I do if my doughnuts absorb too much oil while frying?
If you find that your doughnuts are greasy, it could be due to the frying oil being too cool. Make sure your oil reaches 350°F before adding your doughnuts—use a thermometer for accuracy. Also, avoid overcooking; frying for just 1 to 2 minutes on each side should give you a golden-brown finish without excess oil absorption.
Are these doughnuts suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
The recipe contains eggs and dairy, making it unsuitable for vegans or those with allergies to these ingredients. You can substitute the eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water, resting for 5-10 minutes) and use plant-based buttermilk alternatives like almond or soy milk mixed with a bit of vinegar for a dairy-free version.
How can I tell when my doughnuts are ready to fry?
To ensure your doughnuts are just right, visually check for a beautiful golden-brown color. For perfect frying, be sure the oil temperature is maintained around 350°F. You can drop a small piece of dough into the oil; if it bubbles and floats to the surface, you’re ready to go!
Delicious Buttermilk Bar Doughnuts Ready in Just 55 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, sift or whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Using a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, combine the granulated sugar, vanilla, shortening, and melted butter on medium speed until creamy.
- With the mixer on low, add the room temperature egg yolks, one at a time. Mix well after each addition, then add the buttermilk and blend until well combined.
- With the mixer still on low speed, add the dry ingredients all at once. Mix until just incorporated, then cover the dough and refrigerate for 30-60 minutes.
- On a heavily floured surface, turn out the chilled dough. Pat it into a rectangle about 1/2" thick and 3 1/2" wide. Cut into bars measuring 3 1/2" by 1 1/2" by 1/2".
- Fill a large, heavy pot with 6 cups of shortening and heat over medium-high until the oil reaches 350°F.
- Line a cooling rack with a thick layer of paper towels.
- Carefully place one bar into the hot oil, bottom side down. Fry for 1 to 2 minutes until golden brown, gently flip, and fry for another 1 to 2 minutes. Transfer to the prepared cooling rack.
- Allow the fried bars to come to room temperature before glazing.
- In a bowl, whisk together the sifted confectioners' sugar, vanilla paste or extract, and warm water until shiny and smooth.
- Dunk each bar, top side down, into the glaze. Place back on the cooling rack until the glaze sets, about 4-5 minutes.
