Cinnamon Raisin Butter Swim Biscuits

These Cinnamon Raisin Butter Swim Biscuits are soft, fluffy, and impossibly buttery — with a swirl of warm cinnamon and sweet raisins in every bite. Baked in a pool of melted butter, they’re perfectly crisp on the edges and tender in the center, making them a comforting breakfast or snack you’ll crave again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Butter Swim Biscuits are famous for their rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture, and this cinnamon raisin twist takes them to the next level. They’re quick and easy — no kneading or rolling required! Just mix, pour, and bake. The cinnamon and raisins add a sweet, cozy flavor that pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • All-purpose flour
  • Baking powder
  • Granulated sugar
  • Salt
  • Cinnamon
  • Raisins
  • Buttermilk
  • Unsalted butter

Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
  2. Pour the melted butter into an 8×8-inch baking dish or similar oven-safe dish.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Stir in the raisins.
  4. Pour in the buttermilk and stir until just combined — do not overmix.
  5. Transfer the dough to the baking dish, spreading it evenly over the melted butter.
  6. Use a knife to cut the dough into squares to help them bake evenly.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the edges are crisp.
  8. Let cool slightly, then serve warm, spooning extra butter from the dish over the biscuits if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 9 biscuits. Prep time is about 10 minutes, and bake time is 20-25 minutes.

Variations

  • Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
  • Swap raisins for dried cranberries or chopped dates.
  • Drizzle a simple icing glaze over the warm biscuits for a sweet finish.
  • Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for a warm spice twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes or microwave for 10-15 seconds until warm.

FAQs

What are Butter Swim Biscuits?

They’re biscuits baked in melted butter, which gives them a rich, tender crumb and crispy edges.

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes, but for best results, make a quick buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk.

Can I use whole wheat flour?

You can substitute half the flour with whole wheat flour, but the texture will be denser.

Do I need to soak the raisins first?

It’s optional, but soaking them in warm water for 10 minutes makes them plumper and juicier.

How do I keep the biscuits from being too greasy?

Make sure to measure the butter correctly and don’t skip cutting the dough into squares before baking.

Can I make these biscuits ahead of time?

They’re best fresh, but you can bake them ahead and reheat just before serving.

Can I freeze these biscuits?

Yes! Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best texture.

Can I make them dairy-free?

Use a plant-based butter and dairy-free milk mixed with vinegar to replace the buttermilk.

Why do I cut the dough before baking?

Cutting the dough before baking helps the biscuits rise evenly and soak up the butter properly.

What should I serve with these biscuits?

They’re delicious on their own but also great with a drizzle of honey or a smear of cream cheese.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Raisin Butter Swim Biscuits are a warm, comforting twist on a classic Southern favorite. With their buttery edges, fluffy center, and sweet cinnamon-raisin flavor, they’re sure to become a new staple for cozy mornings or anytime you need a quick, delicious treat!

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Cinnamon Raisin Butter Swim Biscuits

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Tender, buttery biscuits that literally swim in melted butter, packed with sweet cinnamon and plump raisins — a delicious twist on classic butter swim biscuits.

  • Author: Beth
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 9 biscuits 1x
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 cup raisins
  • 1 3/4 cups buttermilk
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar + 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Pour melted butter into an 8×8-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
  3. Stir in raisins.
  4. Pour in buttermilk and mix just until combined — do not overmix.
  5. Transfer dough into the butter-filled baking dish. Use a spatula to spread evenly.
  6. Use a knife to cut the dough into 9 squares for easy separation later.
  7. Sprinkle the top with the cinnamon-sugar topping.
  8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
  9. Serve warm and enjoy the buttery, cinnamon goodness!

Notes

  • Don’t overmix the dough — it keeps the biscuits tender.
  • Use golden raisins for a milder sweetness.
  • These taste amazing warm with a drizzle of honey or extra butter.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 biscuit
  • Calories: 260
  • Sugar: 9g
  • Sodium: 280mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

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