Experience the delightful fusion of warm cinnamon and sweet raisins in every bite with these Cinnamon Raisin Biscuits. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, this recipe brings bakery-quality biscuits right into your kitchen. Whether you’re reminiscing about your favorite café treats or simply craving something deliciously comforting, these biscuits are sure to satisfy.
Why You’ll Love These Cinnamon Raisin Biscuits
Authentic Taste
These biscuits capture the essence of classic cinnamon raisin flavors. The perfect balance of spices and sweetness ensures each bite is a harmonious blend of tastes.
Easy Preparation
With straightforward instructions and common ingredients, this recipe is accessible to bakers of all levels. You don’t need specialized equipment or exotic ingredients to create these delectable biscuits.
Versatile Enjoyment
Serve them warm with butter, jam, or your favorite spread. They’re also excellent for making sandwiches or enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee.
Fresh and Homemade
Enjoy the satisfaction of baking from scratch. The enticing aroma filling your kitchen is just the beginning of the homemade goodness.
Ingredients
To achieve the perfect Cinnamon Raisin Biscuits, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
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Provides structure and a tender crumb.
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1/4 cup granulated sugar
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Adds just the right amount of sweetness.
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1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
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Infuses warmth and depth of flavor.
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2 teaspoons baking powder
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Helps the biscuits rise and become fluffy.
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1/2 teaspoon baking soda
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Works with baking powder to achieve a light texture.
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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Enhances all the flavors.
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1/2 cup vegetable shortening
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Creates flaky layers and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
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3/4 cup buttermilk, cold
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Adds moisture and a slight tang, contributing to the biscuits’ tenderness.
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1 cup raisins
- The chewy sweet component throughout each biscuit.
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
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Provides a sweet, smooth coating.
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2 tablespoons milk
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Adjusts the glaze consistency.
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1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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Complements the biscuit’s flavor.
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1 teaspoon vegetable oil
- Adds shine and smoothness to the glaze.
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Pastry blender or fork
- Rolling pin
- Biscuit cutter (3-inch recommended)
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Small bowl for the glaze
- Cooling rack
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking. Lightly flour your rolling surface to make handling the dough easier.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Ensure the mixture is well combined to distribute the leavening agents and spices evenly.
3. Incorporate Shortening
Add the cold vegetable shortening to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry blender or a fork, cut the shortening into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This process is essential for creating the biscuit’s flaky texture.
4. Add Raisins and Buttermilk
Stir in the raisins, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Gradually pour in the cold buttermilk, stirring gently until the dough comes together. If the dough appears too dry, add an extra tablespoon of buttermilk to achieve the right consistency.
5. Roll Out the Dough
Transfer the dough onto the prepared, lightly floured surface. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough to approximately 3/4-inch thickness. Rolling the dough evenly is crucial for consistent baking.
6. Cut the Biscuits
With a 3-inch biscuit cutter, press firmly straight down into the dough without twisting. Lift the cutter straight up to release the biscuit. Place each biscuit onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart to allow for expansion.
7. Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown on top. For mini biscuits, reduce the baking time to 6 to 8 minutes. Avoid overbaking to maintain a soft and tender crumb.
8. Prepare the Glaze
While the biscuits are baking, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, ground cinnamon, and vegetable oil until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if a thinner glaze is preferred.
9. Glaze the Biscuits
Once the biscuits are out of the oven, let them cool slightly on a cooling rack. Drizzle the glaze over the warm biscuits, allowing it to set before serving. For an extra touch, dip the tops of the biscuits into the glaze before placing them on the cooling rack.
Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Raisin Biscuits
Keep Ingredients Cold
Ensure that both the buttermilk and shortening are cold before mixing. Cold ingredients help create flaky layers, enhancing the biscuit’s texture.
Soak the Raisins
For plumper raisins, soak them in hot water for 10 minutes before adding to the dough. This prevents them from drying out during baking and ensures a juicier bite.
Handle the Dough Gently
Avoid overworking the dough to maintain a tender crumb. Gently mix the ingredients until just combined and refrain from excessive kneading when rolling the dough.
Consistent Rolling
Roll the dough to an even thickness to ensure uniform baking. Uneven dough can lead to biscuits that are undercooked in some areas and overbaked in others.
Proper Biscuit Cutting
Press the biscuit cutter straight down without twisting. Twisting seals the edges, preventing the biscuits from rising properly and achieving a flat top.
Storage Tips
Store any leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze the biscuits by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat frozen biscuits in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 7 minutes or microwave them wrapped in a damp paper towel for 10 to 15 seconds.
Customize Your Biscuits
Feel free to personalize your biscuits by adding chopped nuts, other dried fruits, or a flavored glaze. Experimenting with different toppings or fillings can add a unique twist to the classic recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Substitute Butter for Shortening?
Yes, you can substitute butter for vegetable shortening in a 1:1 ratio. Keep in mind that butter will add a richer flavor, while shortening contributes to flakiness.
What If I Don’t Have Buttermilk?
You can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to 3/4 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
How to Store the Glazed Biscuits?
Once the glaze has set, store the biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid stacking them immediately to prevent the glaze from smudging.
Can I Make These Biscuits Ahead of Time?
While fresh biscuits are best enjoyed warm, you can prepare the dough a day in advance. Refrigerate the dough, wrapped tightly, and proceed with baking the next day.
Nutritional Information
(Optional section, based on user preference. Omitted here for brevity.)
Serving Suggestions
- Breakfast Delight: Serve warm with a pat of butter or cream cheese and a drizzle of honey.
- Afternoon Snack: Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for a perfect mid-day treat.
- Brunch Addition: Include them on a brunch table alongside fresh fruit, yogurt, and other pastries.
- Dessert Base: Use them as a base for a sweet sandwich, adding mascarpone or fruit preserves.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Biscuits Are Too Dense
Ensure that you’re not overmixing the dough. Overworking can lead to dense biscuits. Mix until just combined.
Biscuits Didn’t Rise Properly
Check the freshness of your baking powder and baking soda. Old leavening agents can fail to provide the necessary lift.
Raisins Became Soggy
Soaking the raisins before adding them to the dough helps maintain their texture and prevent them from becoming too soft during baking.
Glaze is Too Thick or Too Thin
Adjust the glaze consistency by adding more milk for a thinner glaze or more powdered sugar for a thicker coating.
Variations to Try
- Nutty Twist: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
- Mixed Fruits: Incorporate dried cranberries or apricots alongside the raisins for a varied flavor profile.
- Spiced Glaze: Enhance the glaze with a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for an extra layer of spice.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Add melted chocolate to the glaze for a decadent touch.
These Cinnamon Raisin Biscuits offer a perfect blend of simplicity and flavor, making them a staple in any baker’s repertoire. From the first warm bite to the last crumb, they deliver a comforting and satisfying experience. Whether you’re baking for yourself, family, or friends, this recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite. Enjoy the delightful combination of cinnamon and raisins in every fluffy, golden biscuit!
Additional Notes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: Yields 12 large biscuits or 24 mini biscuits
Happy baking!
Cinnamon Raisin Biscuits
Cinnamon Raisin Biscuits are pure bliss! They have warm cinnamon spice, juicy raisins, and buttery goodness in every bite. They are the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for any time of day, these biscuits bring back cozy, nostalgic vibes.
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons vegetable oil (optional)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2/3 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup vegetable shortening
- 1 cup buttermilk (+ more as needed)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a large baking sheet. Use parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Mix the ingredients thoroughly.
- Cut in vegetable shortening using a pastry blender or a fork. Continue until the mixture is crumbly.
- Stir in raisins and buttermilk. Stir until the dry ingredients are moistened. If the dough seems too dry, add a splash of buttermilk. Continue until it reaches a good consistency.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Then, roll the dough to about 3/4-inch thickness.
- Cut the dough with a 3-inch biscuit cutter or a mini biscuit cutter. Place the biscuits on the baking sheet. Do not twist the biscuit cutter as you cut them.
- Bake for about 10-15 minutes for 3-inch biscuits. Bake for about 6-8 minutes for mini biscuits. Note: these biscuits will naturally look darker than regular ones due to the cinnamon.
- In a small bowl, combine powdered sugar, milk, vegetable oil (if using), and cinnamon (if using). Stir until completely mixed.
- Drizzle the glaze over hot biscuits. Alternatively, dip the tops of the biscuits in the glaze. For a thicker coating, repeat the process a second time.
