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

- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Pour the melted butter into an 8×8-inch baking dish or similar oven-safe dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Stir in the raisins.
- Pour in the buttermilk and stir until just combined — do not overmix.
- Transfer the dough to the baking dish, spreading it evenly over the melted butter.
- Use a knife to cut the dough into squares to help them bake evenly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the edges are crisp.
- 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!
PrintCinnamon Raisin Butter Swim Biscuits
Tender, buttery biscuits that literally swim in melted butter, packed with sweet cinnamon and plump raisins — a delicious twist on classic butter swim biscuits.
- 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
- 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
- Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Pour melted butter into an 8×8-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- Stir in raisins.
- Pour in buttermilk and mix just until combined — do not overmix.
- Transfer dough into the butter-filled baking dish. Use a spatula to spread evenly.
- Use a knife to cut the dough into 9 squares for easy separation later.
- Sprinkle the top with the cinnamon-sugar topping.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- 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