Cinnamon Sugar Butter Swim Biscuits are the easiest sweet biscuits to make! Ready in just 35 minutes, no rolling pins or biscuit cutters needed! Experience the joy of baking with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Cinnamon Sugar Butter Swim Biscuits: Your New Favorite Sweet Treat
Prepare to fall in love with Cinnamon Sugar Butter Swim Biscuits, a delectable variation of my ever-popular Butter Swim Biscuits. These biscuits are truly irresistible, offering a simpler, yet equally satisfying sweet indulgence. While I have a cherished recipe for Cinnamon Roll Butter Swim Biscuits, which features a cream cheese icing for that classic cinnamon roll experience, I craved something reminiscent of warm, buttery cinnamon toast or a light, fluffy churro. This recipe delivers exactly that, blending simplicity with a burst of nostalgic flavor that will have everyone asking for more.
The beauty of Butter Swim Biscuits lies in their effortless preparation. Forget the traditional fuss of rolling pins and biscuit cutters; this method streamlines the process, making homemade biscuits accessible to even the busiest bakers. You simply mix a straightforward dough and gently spoon it into a baking dish filled with melted butter. The result? A sweet, tender biscuit with a wonderfully crisp, golden-brown bottom and edges, permeated with the rich aroma and taste of cinnamon and sugar. A sweet treat ready to delight your taste buds in mere minutes!
Why You’ll Adore These Easy Butter Swim Biscuits
These Cinnamon Sugar Butter Swim Biscuits aren’t just easy; they are a revelation for anyone who loves homemade baked goods but dreads the extensive prep time. Here’s why this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your culinary repertoire:
- Unbelievably Simple: The “swim” method eliminates the need for any special equipment like rolling pins or biscuit cutters. Just mix, pour, and bake!
- Quick & Convenient: From start to finish, these biscuits are ready in about 35 minutes, making them perfect for a spontaneous breakfast, a last-minute dessert, or an afternoon snack.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of warm cinnamon and sweet sugar, baked into a rich, buttery dough, creates a flavor profile that’s reminiscent of classic cinnamon toast or even a delightful churro.
- Perfect Texture: Baking in melted butter ensures a wonderfully crisp, golden-brown exterior while maintaining an incredibly soft and fluffy interior. Each bite is a harmonious blend of textures.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy them warm from the oven as is, or dress them up with toppings for a more elaborate dessert. They are truly adaptable to any occasion.
Understanding the Butter Swim Method
The “Butter Swim” technique is what sets these biscuits apart. Instead of cutting cold butter into flour or rolling out dough, this recipe calls for pouring a simple, sticky dough directly into a pan of hot, melted butter. As the biscuits bake, they literally “swim” in the butter, absorbing its rich flavor and developing an incredibly tender crumb and a beautiful golden crust. This method not only simplifies the baking process but also infuses every inch of the biscuit with unparalleled buttery goodness.
This technique results in a biscuit that’s consistently moist and flavorful, without any dry spots often found in more traditional biscuit recipes. It’s a game-changer for those seeking delicious homemade biscuits without the intimidation factor. The melted butter also helps prevent sticking and promotes even browning, ensuring a perfect biscuit every time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
These Cinnamon Sugar Butter Swim Biscuits are absolutely delicious served warm, fresh from the oven, just as they are – sweet and simple. However, their light texture and sweet flavor make them an excellent base for various desserts. Imagine them as a delightful twist on strawberry shortcake, topped with a generous dollop of sweetened fresh strawberries and fluffy whipped cream. They also pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of caramel, or simply alongside your morning coffee or tea for a comforting breakfast or brunch.
For all my Butter Swim Biscuit recipes, I consistently recommend an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish. These sizes are ideal for achieving the perfect biscuit thickness – tall, fluffy, and satisfyingly substantial. If you opt for a larger pan, such as an 11×7-inch or a 9×13-inch dish, be aware that your biscuits will likely turn out thinner. While still delicious, the baking time might need to be adjusted (potentially shortened), and the overall texture will be less “biscuit-like” and more akin to a flat scone or bar. Stick to the recommended square pans for the best results.
While metal baking dishes are often preferred for many baked goods due to their even heat distribution and ability to create crispier edges, for Butter Swim Biscuits, I strongly favor ceramic or glass pans. The key reason is the significant amount of melted butter at the bottom of the pan. In a metal pan, this butter can sometimes brown too quickly or even burn, potentially leading to a slightly bitter taste. Glass or ceramic pans heat more gently, allowing the butter to infuse into the biscuits without scorching, resulting in a softer, more uniformly golden biscuit. If you do prefer a noticeably crisper bottom and sides, a metal pan can work, but keep a closer eye on the baking process to prevent burning.
To keep your leftover Cinnamon Sugar Butter Swim Biscuits fresh, store them covered at room temperature for up to two days. If you need them to last a bit longer, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for an additional two to three days. However, be mindful that, like most fresh breads and pastries, the refrigerator can sometimes dry them out more quickly. For best results, gently warm them in the microwave for a few seconds or in a toaster oven before serving to regain some of their fresh-baked tenderness.
Absolutely! These Cinnamon Sugar Butter Swim Biscuits freeze beautifully, making them perfect for meal prep or enjoying a homemade treat anytime. Once the biscuits have completely cooled, wrap each individual biscuit tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight, freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months without compromising quality. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours, then reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warm through.
Essential Ingredients for Cinnamon Sugar Butter Swim Biscuits
Creating these delightful biscuits requires a handful of common pantry staples. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect taste and texture:
- Salted Butter: This is the foundation of our “swim” method. Always use real salted butter, not margarine or any butter substitutes, as they will not yield the same rich flavor or desired texture. The butter becomes part of the biscuit, making its quality paramount.
- All-Purpose Flour: Standard all-purpose flour provides the structure for these fluffy biscuits. No need for specialty flours here.
- Light Brown Sugar: Added to the biscuit dough, light brown sugar contributes moisture, a subtle caramel note, and a deeper sweetness that complements the cinnamon beautifully. Make sure it’s packed when measuring for accuracy.
- Aluminum-Free Baking Powder: For those with a sensitive palate, aluminum-free baking powder can make a significant difference. It prevents any metallic aftertaste often associated with traditional baking powder, resulting in a cleaner, purer flavor. If you don’t typically notice a difference, standard baking powder will work just fine.
- Ground Cinnamon: The star spice! High-quality ground cinnamon is essential for the signature warm, inviting flavor of these biscuits.
- Heavy Cream: This is a non-negotiable ingredient for the best possible texture and richness. Heavy cream provides unparalleled moisture and tenderness, creating a biscuit that simply melts in your mouth. While milk can be used in a pinch, it won’t deliver the same luxurious consistency, so for optimal results, stick with heavy cream.
- Vanilla Extract: A touch of pure vanilla extract enhances all the sweet and spiced flavors in the biscuits, adding depth and warmth.
- Granulated Sugar (for topping): Used for the delightful cinnamon-sugar topping, this provides a sweet, sparkly crunch. For those managing sugar intake, a 1:1 sugar substitute can be used here.
How to Make Effortless Cinnamon Sugar Butter Swim Biscuits
Follow these simple steps to create a batch of unbelievably delicious Cinnamon Sugar Butter Swim Biscuits:
Preparation & Melting the Butter
Begin by preheating your oven to a warm 450°F (230°C). Prepare an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch glass or ceramic baking dish by lightly coating it with nonstick cooking spray. I find that sprays with flour work exceptionally well for this, ensuring absolutely no sticking. Next, in a microwave-safe bowl, melt one stick (1/2 cup) of salted butter in the microwave until fully liquid. Carefully pour this melted butter directly into your prepared baking dish, ensuring it coats the bottom evenly. You can also melt the butter directly in your baking dish if it’s microwave-safe, saving you an extra bowl!
Mixing the Dough
In a separate medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, light brown sugar (packed), aluminum-free baking powder, and ground cinnamon. Whisk these ingredients together thoroughly until they are well combined and there are no lumps of brown sugar. This ensures even distribution of flavor and leavening throughout the biscuits.
Now, pour in the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Stir the mixture gently but consistently until a thick, sticky biscuit batter forms. The dough should be soft and moist, but not runny. If, after initial mixing, the batter appears too dry or crumbly, add a tiny bit more heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve the desired thick and sticky consistency. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to tough biscuits.
Assembling & Topping the Biscuits
Carefully pour or spoon the sticky biscuit dough directly into the prepared baking dish, right on top of the melted butter. Don’t worry if some of the butter seems to run over the top of the dough; this is part of the “swim” magic! To help spread the dough evenly across the pan, you can lightly spray your hands with nonstick cooking spray and gently press the dough into an even layer. This ensures all biscuits bake uniformly.
Next, using a knife or a bench scraper, score the dough into 9 squares. You don’t need to cut all the way through, just create indentations. This simple step will make it much easier to separate the individual biscuits cleanly after they are baked.
In a small separate bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and the remaining ground cinnamon for the topping. Generously sprinkle this fragrant cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the entire surface of the scored biscuit dough. Make sure to use all of it for that irresistible sweet, spiced crust.
Baking to Perfection
Place the baking dish on the middle rack of your preheated oven. Bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, rotating the dish halfway through the baking time to ensure even browning. Keep in mind that oven temperatures can vary, so adjust baking time as needed. If you notice the tops browning too quickly, you can loosely tent the dish with aluminum foil for the latter half of the baking period.
The biscuits are done when they are beautifully golden brown on top and spring back lightly when gently touched. To double-check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of a biscuit; if it comes out clean with no wet batter, they are ready! Remove from the oven and serve warm. The aroma alone is a treat!
Tips for Biscuit Baking Success
- Don’t Overmix: As with most biscuit and pastry doughs, overmixing can develop the gluten too much, leading to tough biscuits. Mix just until the ingredients are combined and a sticky batter forms.
- Use Real Butter: I cannot stress this enough. Margarine or butter substitutes will not give you the same rich flavor or the proper “swim” effect. Stick with real, good quality salted butter.
- Pan Choice Matters: While metal pans can be used, ceramic or glass dishes are highly recommended for Butter Swim Biscuits. They distribute heat more gently, preventing the melted butter at the bottom from burning.
- Evenly Spread the Dough: Taking a moment to spread the dough evenly in the pan ensures uniform thickness and baking, so all your biscuits come out perfectly.
- Adjust Baking Time: Ovens vary! Start checking your biscuits around the 20-minute mark. If they are browning too quickly, tent them with foil. If they seem pale, give them a few extra minutes.
- Serve Warm: These biscuits are truly at their best when served warm, straight from the oven. The cinnamon sugar crust is crisp, and the interior is melt-in-your-mouth tender.
Creative Serving Suggestions & Variations
While incredible on their own, these Cinnamon Sugar Butter Swim Biscuits offer a canvas for creativity. Enjoy them simply as a sweet breakfast pastry with your morning coffee, or transform them into a decadent dessert:
- Shortcake Style: Top with fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, or peaches) and a dollop of homemade whipped cream for a quick and easy fruit shortcake.
- Ice Cream Sundae: Serve warm biscuits with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream and a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce.
- Glaze It: For an extra layer of sweetness, whisk together powdered sugar and a touch of milk or vanilla extract to create a simple glaze to drizzle over the warm biscuits.
- Add Nuts: Fold in a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts into the dough for added texture and nutty flavor.
- Spice It Up: Experiment with a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom alongside the cinnamon for a more complex spice profile.
Craving More Butter Swim Biscuit Recipes?
Once you’ve mastered these Cinnamon Sugar Butter Swim Biscuits, you’ll want to explore the many other delicious variations of this incredibly easy recipe. Here are some favorites to try next:
- Original Butter Swim Biscuits
- Apple Pie Butter Swim Biscuits
- Strawberry Butter Swim Biscuits
- Peach Butter Swim Biscuits
- Bacon Cheddar Ranch Butter Swim Biscuits
- Blueberry Butter Swim Biscuits
- Sweet Potato Butter Swim Biscuits
- Butter Swim Yeast Rolls
- Cheddar Garlic Butter Swim Biscuits
- Beer Bread Butter Swim Biscuits
- Garlic Butter Swim Biscuits
- Jalapeno Popper Butter Swim Biscuits
- Breakfast Butter Swim Biscuits
- 7Up Butter Swim Biscuits
- Air Fryer Butter Swim Biscuits
- Ham and Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits
- Sausage Gravy Butter Swim Biscuits
- The Best Butter Swim Biscuit Recipes
Cinnamon Sugar Butter Swim Biscuits
A sweet and fluffy biscuit loaded with cinnamon and sugar and baked in butter! No biscuit cutters or rolling pins needed!
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Ingredients
For the biscuits:
- ½ cup (1 stick) salted butter (can use unsalted)
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 Tablespoon aluminum-free baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the topping:
- 3 Tablespoons granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Spray a glass or ceramic 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray (a kind with flour is recommended).
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt ½ cup (1 stick) salted butter. Pour melted butter into the prepared baking dish. (You can also melt the butter directly in the dish if it is microwave safe).
- In a medium bowl, mix together 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, ¼ cup light brown sugar (packed), 1 Tablespoon aluminum-free baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon.
- Pour in 2 cups heavy cream and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Stir until a sticky batter forms. If the batter still seems too dry, add a tad bit more heavy cream until it is thick and sticky.
- Pour the biscuit dough into the baking dish (right on top of the melted butter). Some of the butter will run over the top of the dough. Tip: Spray your hand with some nonstick spray to help spread the dough out evenly in the pan.
- Cut the dough into 9 squares (as best you can). This will help with cutting later when the biscuits are baked.
- Mix together 3 Tablespoons granulated sugar and ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Sprinkle this all over the tops of the biscuits, use it all!
- Bake (on the middle oven rack) for about 25-30 minutes, rotating the dish once during baking. If you find the biscuits are browning too much, you can tent them with foil about halfway through. Then serve!
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Notes
- Please refer to the FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions) and ingredient list above for other substitutions or for the answers to the most common questions.
- Even with butter coating the bottom, it’s a good practice to still spray with nonstick spray to ensure no sticking occurs.
Nutrition
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Carbohydrates: 38g
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Protein: 5g
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Fat: 30g
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Sodium: 203mg
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Fiber: 1g
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Sugar: 12g
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.
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