Name: Cinnamon Raisin Biscuits That Beat Hardee's Every Time
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Self-Rising Flour (or regular flour plus 2 tsp baking powder and 1 tsp salt); 2 tbsp Granulated Sugar; 1 tbsp Ground Cinnamon; 1/2 cup Frozen Butter (grated); 3/4 cup Buttermilk (or milk); 1 cup Raisins (soaked and drained); 1 cup Powdered Sugar; 1 tsp Vanilla Extract; 2 tbsp Milk (as needed for consistency)

As I stood in the kitchen, the aroma of warm spices wrapped around me like a beloved hug, my mind drifted to those delightful mornings spent savoring Cinnamon Raisin Biscuits. What if I told you that you can recreate that cherished comfort at home with my Better Than Hardee’s Cinnamon Raisin Biscuits recipe? These soft, buttery, and flaky delights are not just a feast for the senses; they’re incredibly easy to whip up and bring joy to breakfast tables or weekend brunch gatherings. Packed with plump raisins and topped with a sweet vanilla glaze, this homemade treat might just become your go-to comfort food. Ready to bring some magic to your mornings? Let’s dive into this deliciousness together!

Why are these biscuits a must-try?

Unmatched Flavor: These biscuits boast a delightful blend of cinnamon and raisins, evoking nostalgia and warmth with every bite.
Perfectly Flaky: With just the right amount of grating, frozen butter ensures a texture that’s light and airy, unlike any store-bought version.
Quick and Easy: Whip them up in no time, making them a perfect choice for busy mornings or spontaneous brunches.
Versatile Enjoyment: Whether paired with a cozy cup of coffee or served alongside your favorite breakfast dishes, they cater to all tastes.
Homemade Charm: Skip the fast food and embrace the love that home-cooked meals bring—because these biscuits are made to share! Enjoy them warm with your favorite beverage, just like those beloved Chicken Dumplings Comforting you adore.

Cinnamon Raisin Biscuits Ingredients

For the Biscuit Dough

Self-Rising Flour – This is the backbone of the recipe, providing the necessary lift; you can substitute it with regular flour plus 2 teaspoons baking powder and 1 teaspoon salt.
Granulated Sugar – Adds just the right touch of sweetness to enhance the flavors in your biscuits.
Ground Cinnamon – Essential for that classic cinnamon raisin taste that will fill your home with warmth.
Frozen Butter – Ensures your biscuits are perfectly flaky; grating it keeps it cold and perfectly incorporated. Regular chilled butter can be used if needed.
Buttermilk (or Milk) – Adds moisture and richness; you can easily create homemade buttermilk by mixing regular milk with vinegar.
Raisins – These plump gems bring natural sweetness and a chewy texture; be sure to soak them to make them extra tender.

For the Glaze

Powdered Sugar – A must for creating that smooth, sweet glaze that makes these cinnamon raisin biscuits truly irresistible.
Vanilla Extract – This aromatic essence enhances the glaze’s flavor, adding a delightful finish to your biscuits.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Raisin Biscuits

Step 1: Soak the Raisins
Begin by soaking the raisins in hot water for 15 minutes to plump them up. This step ensures a burst of sweetness in your Cinnamon Raisin Biscuits. Once softened, drain and pat the raisins dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which will help maintain the biscuit dough’s consistency.

Step 2: Prepare the Biscuit Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the self-rising flour, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon until well combined. Next, grate the frozen butter directly into the mixture, giving it a quick stir so the butter integrates evenly. Pour in the buttermilk and add the soaked raisins, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overworking the dough, which is key to achieving fluffy biscuits.

Step 3: Roll and Cut the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the biscuit dough to a thickness of about ¾ inch. Carefully fold the dough several times to create layers, adding to the flaky texture of your Cinnamon Raisin Biscuits. Use a round biscuit cutter to cut out the biscuits, pressing straight down without twisting to ensure they rise beautifully in the oven.

Step 4: Bake the Biscuits
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the cut-out biscuits in a greased baking dish or on a lined baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced close but not touching. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the biscuits are lightly golden on the tops and fragrant, filling your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma.

Step 5: Prepare the Glaze
While the Cinnamon Raisin Biscuits are baking, prepare the vanilla glaze. In a small bowl, combine the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and necessary milk to reach your desired smooth consistency. Whisk until the mixture is well blended and creamy, making it easy to drizzle over the warm biscuits once they are out of the oven.

Step 6: Glaze and Serve
Once the biscuits have cooled slightly, drizzle the prepared vanilla glaze generously over the tops of each biscuit. Allow the glaze to set for a moment, creating a delightful sweet shell. Serve these warm, soft Cinnamon Raisin Biscuits for breakfast or as a comforting snack, and enjoy every delicious bite!

How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Raisin Biscuits

Room Temperature: Store any leftover Cinnamon Raisin Biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them fresh.

Fridge: If you prefer a longer storage time, refrigerate the biscuits in an airtight container for up to one week; they may lose some flakiness but will still be delicious.

Freezer: For optimal preservation, freeze baked biscuits in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy your biscuits warm, reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or microwave them for 20-30 seconds until warmed through.

Cinnamon Raisin Biscuits Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with your Cinnamon Raisin Biscuits—there are endless ways to personalize this comforting recipe!

Fruit Swap: Replace raisins with currants or cranberries for a delightful twist. Each fruit brings its unique flavor, adding a different burst of sweetness.
Nutty Addition: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the dough for a crunchy texture contrast. It brings a nutty richness that complements the fruit beautifully.
Glaze Variations: Mix in flavored extracts like almond or maple in the glaze for a unique aromatic twist. Experimenting with flavors can elevate your biscuits to new heights.
Spice it Up: Enhance the cinnamon flavor by adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice into the dough for a warm, cozy spice profile. This will create an extra layer of delicious complexity.
Dairy-Free Option: Use almond or oat milk instead of buttermilk and substitute with dairy-free butter for a comforting vegan-friendly version that everyone can enjoy.
Chocolate Delight: Fold in mini chocolate chips along with the raisins for a decadent chocolate-cinnamon treat that will have everyone coming back for more.
Zesty Brightness: Add some orange or lemon zest to the dough for a refreshing citrusy note. It harmonizes perfectly with the sweetness of the raisins and adds a delightful twist.
Savory Twist: Consider adding a pinch of sea salt to the glaze for a sweet-and-salty flavor combination that tantalizes the taste buds. It’s a game changer that adds depth.

With these variations, you can create your own signature Cinnamon Raisin Biscuits every time. Each bite could be just as comforting as those beloved Chicken Dumplings Comforting that bring you back to your cozy kitchen!

What to Serve with Better Than Hardee’s Cinnamon Raisin Biscuits

As the enchanting aroma of cinnamon lingers, consider these delightful pairings to create a heartwarming meal experience.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing, tart contrast to the sweet, rich biscuits.
Creamy Scrambled Eggs: The fluffy texture and buttery flavor of scrambled eggs complement the softness of the biscuits perfectly.
Coffee or Herbal Tea: Sipping a warm beverage elevates the experience, allowing the flavors to burst with each bite.

A good coffee paired with these biscuits provides a morning ritual that feels like a warm embrace. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon on top to tie everything together.

Maple Syrup: Drizzling this golden sweetness over your biscuits enhances their flavor while offering a comforting touch.
Bacon or Sausage Links: For a savory element, these hearty staples add a satisfying crunch and balance the sweetness.

The combination of crispy bacon and warm cinnamon raisin biscuits creates a delectable sweet-and-salty dance in your mouth.

Yogurt with Granola: The creaminess of yogurt mixed with crunchy granola gives texture, making for a delightful breakfast option.
Vanilla Ice Cream: For a truly indulgent treat, serve a warm biscuit with a scoop of ice cream for a delightful dessert that’s difficult to resist.

With these pairings, you can turn your Better Than Hardee’s Cinnamon Raisin Biscuits into a symphony of flavors that sings comfort in every bite.

Make Ahead Options

These Better Than Hardee’s Cinnamon Raisin Biscuits are ideal for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the biscuit dough up to 24 hours in advance; just mix all the ingredients and keep the dough tightly wrapped in the refrigerator. To ensure the biscuits stay fresh, remember to slice them just before baking. If you want to prep even further ahead, cut out the biscuits and freeze them on a baking sheet for about 1 hour, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply bake them from frozen at 425°F (220°C) for an extra minute or two, bringing that homemade comfort to your breakfast routine with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Cinnamon Raisin Biscuits

Chill Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients, especially the butter and buttermilk, are cold. This is critical for achieving the perfect flaky texture in your Cinnamon Raisin Biscuits.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix the dough until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough biscuits—nobody wants that!
Use a Firm Press: When cutting out biscuits, press down straight without twisting. Twisting seals the edges and prevents rising, affecting the final texture.
Proper Baking Space: Place biscuits close together on the baking sheet for soft sides, or space them apart for a crispier exterior.
Glaze Consistency: Adjust the milk in your glaze to achieve your preferred thickness. A thinner glaze will drip beautifully over the biscuits, while a thicker one will stay in place!

Cinnamon Raisin Biscuits Recipe FAQs

What type of flour works best for cinnamon raisin biscuits?
The best choice is self-rising flour, which provides both structure and leavening for tender biscuits. If you don’t have self-rising flour, you can substitute it with regular all-purpose flour by adding 2 teaspoons of baking powder and 1 teaspoon of salt to ensure your biscuits rise perfectly!

How should I store leftover cinnamon raisin biscuits?
To keep your biscuits fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their life, you can refrigerate them for up to one week. Just note that refrigerating may slightly affect their flakiness.

Can I freeze cinnamon raisin biscuits?
Absolutely! To freeze your cinnamon raisin biscuits, first let them cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can be kept for up to 3 months. This way, you can enjoy a warm biscuit anytime!

What should I do if my biscuit dough is too sticky?
If your dough is sticky, that’s a common issue! Simply sprinkle a little extra flour onto your work surface and your rolling pin while working with the dough. Just remember, avoid adding too much flour, as this can make your biscuits dense. Aim for a soft but manageable dough!

Can I use dried fruit other than raisins?
Yes, feel free to experiment with other dried fruits! You can use currants, dried cranberries, or even chopped dried apricots for a different flavor profile. Just be sure to soak any dried fruit in hot water for about 15 minutes before mixing them into your dough to ensure they’re plump and tender.

Are there any dietary restrictions to consider?
Yes! This cinnamon raisin biscuits recipe contains gluten due to the flour and dairy from the butter and buttermilk. For gluten-free alternatives, you could use a gluten-free flour blend with a suitable leavening agent. Additionally, for a dairy-free option, replace butter with coconut oil and use a plant-based milk substitute. Enjoy these biscuits while catering to your dietary needs!