Butter Swim Biscuits are a unique and delicious treat that literally swim in butter while they bake. This process gives the biscuits a golden, crispy crust and a soft, fluffy interior. They are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a side with your favorite meals. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of making Butter Swim Biscuits, provide helpful cooking notes, and offer variations to suit different tastes.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1 stick butter (1/2 cup)
- 4 tsp baking powder
- 4 tsp sugar
- 2 tsp salt
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Melt the Butter:
- Place the stick of butter in an 8×8-inch baking dish. Put the dish in the oven until the butter is completely melted. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t burn.
Step 2: Make the Biscuit Dough
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Mix well to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Add Buttermilk:
- Pour the buttermilk into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be sticky.
Step 3: Assemble the Biscuits
- Pour Dough into Baking Dish:
- Carefully remove the baking dish with the melted butter from the oven. Pour the biscuit dough into the dish, spreading it out evenly. The dough will be swimming in butter, which is exactly what you want.
- Score the Dough:
- Using a knife, score the dough into 9 equal squares. This will make it easier to cut the biscuits after baking.
Step 4: Bake the Biscuits
- Bake:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool:
- Remove the dish from the oven and let the biscuits cool for a few minutes. The butter will have absorbed into the biscuits, giving them a rich, buttery flavor.
Step 5: Serve
- Cut and Serve:
- Cut the biscuits along the scored lines and serve warm. These biscuits are perfect on their own or with a drizzle of honey or a dollop of jam.
Cook Notes and Variations
Cook Notes:
- Butter: Ensure the butter is fully melted and evenly coats the bottom of the baking dish for the best results.
- Buttermilk: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 2 cups of milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using.
Variations:
- Cheese Biscuits:
- Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the dry ingredients for cheesy butter swim biscuits.
- Herb Biscuits:
- Mix in 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, chives, or rosemary) for a flavorful twist.
- Garlic Butter Biscuits:
- Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder to the dry ingredients and sprinkle the top with a little more garlic powder before baking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make these biscuits ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, proceed with the baking instructions.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days and reheat before serving.
3. Can I freeze these biscuits?
Yes, you can freeze the baked biscuits. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven before serving.
4. What can I serve with Butter Swim Biscuits?
These biscuits are versatile and can be served with breakfast dishes like eggs and bacon, as a side with soups and stews, or with a drizzle of honey or jam for a sweet treat.
5. Can I use a different type of flour?
While all-purpose flour works best for this recipe, you can experiment with whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend. Note that the texture and flavor may vary.
Butter Swim Biscuits are a delightful and easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With their buttery crust and fluffy interior, these biscuits are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, brunch, or as a side with dinner, this recipe is simple to follow and full of delicious flavors. Give these Butter Swim Biscuits a try and enjoy a comforting and tasty treat. Happy baking!
