Name: Cinnamon Raisin Biscuits
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 0.5 cups sugar; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 0.25 teaspoon salt; 0.5 cups vegetable shortening (like Crisco); 0.67 cups raisins; 1 cup buttermilk (more as needed); 2 cups powdered sugar; 4 tablespoons milk; 2 teaspoons vegetable oil (optional); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

Introduction to Cinnamon Raisin Biscuits

Why Cinnamon Raisin Biscuits Make the Perfect Treat

If you’re on the lookout for a delightful treat that combines comfort and a hint of sweetness, cinnamon raisin biscuits are your answer. Imagine waking up to the warm aroma of freshly baked biscuits wafting through your kitchen—there's nothing quite like it. These biscuits are fluffy yet hearty, making them ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a midday snack.

One of the best aspects of cinnamon raisin biscuits is their versatility. They can be enjoyed plain or slathered with butter for that extra richness. You can even drizzle them with a sweet glaze that complements the subtle cinnamon and tangy raisins perfectly.

Moreover, baking these biscuits is a breeze; even novice bakers will find them approachable. The ingredients are simple and often already in your pantry—flour, sugar, butter, and spices. Plus, you can easily customize them to suit your palate. Add some nuts for a crunch or swap the raisins for dried cranberries if you're feeling adventurous.

So, why not treat yourself? Dive into this easy cinnamon raisin biscuits recipe, and bring a little warmth and sweetness into your day!

Ingredients for Cinnamon Raisin Biscuits

When you’re craving something warm and comforting, cinnamon raisin biscuits are the perfect go-to treat! Let’s dive into the essential ingredients you’ll need to whip up this delicious recipe.

Essential ingredients for the biscuit dough

To create the velvety biscuits that will make your kitchen smell divine, you’ll need:

All-purpose flour - 3 cups for that perfect texture.
Sugar - ½ cup to balance the flavors nicely.
Baking powder - 2 teaspoons for a light, fluffy biscuit.
Baking soda - 1 teaspoon for an extra lift.
Ground cinnamon - 2 teaspoons to give that warm spice flavor.
Salt - ¼ teaspoon to enhance the sweetness.
Vegetable shortening - ½ cup for that tender bite.
Raisins - ⅔ cup, the star of the show!
Buttermilk - 1 cup to bring everything together, with a little more as needed.

Ingredients for the glaze

To top off your cinnamon raisin biscuits with a sweet finish, you’ll want to gather:

Powdered sugar - 2 cups for a delightful sweetness.
Milk - 4 tablespoons to create a smooth consistency.
Vegetable oil - 2 teaspoons (optional for shine).
Ground cinnamon - 1 teaspoon (optional for an extra flavor punch).

With these ingredients in hand, you’re ready to bake some irresistible cinnamon raisin biscuits that will impress anyone who tries them! Let’s get baking!

Step-by-step Preparation of Cinnamon Raisin Biscuits

Preheat the oven and prepare your baking sheet

To kick off the delightful journey of making cinnamon raisin biscuits, the first step is to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your biscuits will bake evenly and rise beautifully. While your oven is heating up, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This not only makes for easy cleanup but also helps prevent the biscuits from sticking.

Combine dry ingredients in a mixing bowl

In a large mixing bowl, it’s time to bring together the dry ingredients. Combine 3 cups of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Use a whisk to ensure everything is well-mixed. This step is crucial because it balances the flavors and ensures an even rise during baking.

Cut in the vegetable shortening

Next, add ½ cup of vegetable shortening to your dry mixture. Using a pastry blender or even a fork, cut the shortening into the flour mixture until you achieve a crumbly texture. This is how you’ll get that tender, flaky biscuit texture. If you’re new to this, think of it as incorporating the fat into the flour to create small, pebbly bits.

Stir in the raisins and buttermilk

Now comes the fun part—stirring in the raisins! Add ⅔ cup of raisins to the bowl along with 1 cup of buttermilk. Gently mix with a spoon or spatula until the dry ingredients are just moistened. If the dough feels too dry and crumbly, don’t hesitate to add a little more buttermilk until it holds together nicely.

Roll the dough and cut out biscuits

Dust your countertop with a little flour and roll the dough out to about ¾ inch thick. Using a 3-inch biscuit cutter, press down firmly to cut out your biscuits. Remember, don’t twist the cutter—just push down and lift away for tall, fluffy biscuits. Place the cut biscuits a few inches apart on your prepared baking sheet.

Bake to perfection

Slide your baking sheet into the preheated oven and let those biscuits bake for about 10-15 minutes for the larger ones, or 6-8 minutes for mini versions. Keep an eye on them; they should turn a lovely golden brown, but remember, the cinnamon will darken them slightly.

Prepare the glaze while the biscuits bake

While you wait for your cinnamon raisin biscuits to bake, it’s the perfect time to whip up a sweet glaze. In a small bowl, combine 2 cups of powdered sugar, 4 tablespoons of milk, and optional 2 teaspoons of vegetable oil mixed with 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Stir until smooth. The glaze is what takes these biscuits from tasty to irresistible—trust me!

Glaze the biscuits after baking

Once the biscuits are done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Then, drizzle the glaze over the top or dip each biscuit in for a wonderfully sticky finish. If you’re feeling indulgent, feel free to double-dip for that extra sweetness!

Now you're ready to enjoy your homemade cinnamon raisin biscuits! Perfect for brunch or a delightful snack, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household.

Variations on Cinnamon Raisin Biscuits

When it comes to cinnamon raisin biscuits, the possibilities are endless! Here are a couple of delightful variations that will add some exciting flair to your baking routine.

Spicy Apple Cinnamon Biscuits

Why not take your cinnamon raisin biscuits to another level by incorporating spiced apple goodness? Simply fold in some diced apples and a pinch of nutmeg along with the raisins. The fruity sweetness balances the cinnamon, creating a biscuit that’s perfect for breakfast or dessert. Serve them warm with a drizzle of honey for an irresistible treat!

Cheddar and Chive Biscuits for a Savory Twist

If you’re craving something savory, swap out the raisins for shredded cheddar cheese and chopped chives. The sharpness of the cheese combined with the fresh taste of chives makes for a wonderful biscuit that pairs perfectly with soups or salads. These cheddar and chive biscuits are a great way to surprise your dinner guests and take your biscuit game to new heights!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Cinnamon Raisin Biscuits

How to Ensure High-Rising Biscuits

To achieve perfectly fluffy cinnamon raisin biscuits, the key lies in how you cut the dough. Avoid twisting the biscuit cutter—just press straight down and lift. This technique prevents the edges from sealing, allowing steam to help them rise beautifully. Additionally, use cold ingredients and minimal mixing to keep the texture light.

Storage Tips for Leftovers

Once baked, store your cinnamon raisin biscuits in an airtight container lined with a paper towel to absorb moisture. They’ll stay fresh for about 2 days at room temperature or up to a week in the fridge. You can also freeze them for longer storage—simply reheat in the oven for a warm, delightful treat!

Serving Suggestions for Cinnamon Raisin Biscuits

Pairing Ideas for Breakfast or Brunch

For a delightful breakfast or brunch, serve your cinnamon raisin biscuits warm alongside:

Turkey bacon: The savory notes of turkey bacon balance the sweetness perfectly.
Scrambled eggs: Creamy eggs provide a hearty counterpart to the pillowy biscuits.
Fresh fruit: A fruit salad of mixed berries adds a refreshing pop of flavor.

Feel free to enjoy these biscuits with a cup of your favorite herbal tea or a rich coffee for an elevated morning experience!

Creative Serving Methods for Dessert

Turn your cinnamon raisin biscuits into a scrumptious dessert by:

Creating biscuit sandwiches: Fill them with whipped cream and sliced strawberries for a twist on shortcake.
Serving with vanilla ice cream: Warm biscuits topped with a scoop of ice cream create a comforting dessert.
Drizzling chocolate sauce: A drizzle of dark chocolate intensifies the flavors and adds a rich layer.

These serving ideas will not only impress your guests but will also make any occasion memorable!

Time Breakdown for Cinnamon Raisin Biscuits

Preparation time
Get ready for baking in about 15 minutes! This is when you'll gather your ingredients, mix everything up, and roll out your dough.

Baking time
The real magic happens in just 10-15 minutes in the oven. You’ll want to keep an eye on them, as those heavenly cinnamon raisin biscuits can turn golden brown quickly.

Total time
In just under 30 minutes, your delicious cinnamon raisin biscuits will be ready to enjoy! Perfect for a quick breakfast or a delightful snack.

Nutritional Facts for Cinnamon Raisin Biscuits

When you're indulging in cinnamon raisin biscuits, it's always good to know what you're enjoying. Here’s a quick breakdown of their nutritional values:

Calories: Each biscuit contains approximately 519 calories, making them a satisfying treat.
Carbohydrates: With about 90g of carbohydrates, these biscuits provide a great source of energy.
Protein: You can expect around 6g of protein per serving, adding a little bit of nutrition to your delicious snack.

These figures are a great guide for those mindful of their nutrition while still wanting to enjoy a classic favorite. Now you can indulge smartly!

FAQs about Cinnamon Raisin Biscuits

How can I make my biscuits fluffier?

For fluffier cinnamon raisin biscuits, ensure your key ingredient, baking powder, is fresh—check the expiration date! Additionally, handle the dough gently and avoid over-mixing, which can result in denser biscuits. Don't forget to use cold ingredients, particularly your shortening and buttermilk, as this helps create those lovely layers.

Can I make the dough in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the biscuit dough up to a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to maintain its moisture. When you're ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cutting it into shapes.

What are some common mistakes when making biscuits?

One common mistake is twisting the cutter when shaping dough, which prevents proper rise. Another tip is not measuring your ingredients accurately, as too much flour can lead to dry biscuits. For perfect results, consider using a kitchen scale to weigh your ingredients.

For more tips and tricks, check out resources like King Arthur Baking or America’s Test Kitchen for expert advice!

Conclusion on Cinnamon Raisin Biscuits

Whether you’re enjoying cinnamon raisin biscuits for breakfast or as a snack, these delightful treats never disappoint. Their soft texture and sweet glaze make them irresistible! Share them with friends or savor them alone; either way, you’ll be delighted with every bite. Happy baking!

Enjoying your homemade cinnamon raisin biscuits

To truly make the most of your cinnamon raisin biscuits, consider pairing them with a warm cup of tea or coffee. They also make a wonderful addition to brunch spreads or casual gatherings with friends. Drizzle extra glaze for a sweet touch, and don't forget to experiment! A dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of nuts can add even more indulgence to your experience.

Have you customized your biscuits with any unique ingredients? Share your ideas in the comments! Baking is all about creativity, and we encourage you to find your own perfect twist on this delicious recipe. Enjoy every crumb!