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Fluffy Butter Swim Biscuits with Crispy Edges

Biscuits are one of those classic comfort foods that never disappoint, and when you add extra butter to the mix? You get something magical. These Butter Swim Biscuits are unlike traditional rolled biscuits—they’re mixed in one bowl, poured into a buttery pan, and baked until fluffy inside with irresistibly crispy edges. The method is simple but genius: the dough literally “swims” in melted butter while baking, creating golden bottoms and edges with rich, buttery flavor in every bite. No rolling, cutting, or layering required—just mix, pour, and bake. Whether served with breakfast, alongside soups and stews, or with a drizzle of honey for dessert, these biscuits are an easy, no-fuss recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
bake time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 9 biscuits
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter softened (for dough)
  • ½ cup milk
  • ½ cup unsalted butter melted (for coating the baking dish)

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk or fork
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish
  • Spatula
  • Oven mitts

Method
 

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
  1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Pour the ½ cup melted butter into the bottom of your baking dish.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
  1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar until well combined.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
  1. Stir in the softened butter and milk. Mix until just combined—the dough will be thick and sticky. Do not overmix.
Step 4: Spread Dough into Pan
  1. Transfer the dough to the prepared baking dish with melted butter. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, letting the butter rise around the edges.
Step 5: Cut Before Baking
  1. Using a knife, score the dough into 9 squares (this helps with portioning and crispy edges).
Step 6: Bake the Biscuits
  1. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown on top and edges are crispy.
Step 7: Serve & Enjoy
  1. Let cool for 5 minutes, then slice along the scored lines. Serve warm with honey, jam, or gravy.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Refrigerator: Store for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes or microwave for 20–30 seconds.
🥄 Variations
Cheddar Garlic Biscuits: Add 1 cup shredded cheddar and 1 tsp garlic powder to the dough.
Sweet Biscuits: Add 1 tsp cinnamon and an extra 2 tbsp sugar; serve with glaze.
Herb Biscuits: Stir in dried rosemary, thyme, or chives for a savory twist.
Buttermilk Swap: Use buttermilk instead of milk for tangier, fluffier biscuits.
Mini Versions: Bake in a muffin tin for individual butter swim biscuits.
❓ 10 FAQs
Do I need to chill the butter first?
No, the butter is melted in the pan and softened in the dough.
Why are they called “butter swim” biscuits?
Because the dough literally bakes while “swimming” in melted butter.
Can I use salted butter?
Yes, just reduce the added salt slightly.
Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, but replace only half for best texture.
Can I make them dairy-free?
Yes, use plant-based butter and milk alternatives.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely, just use a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Why score the dough before baking?
It helps portion the biscuits and creates extra crispy edges.
Can I add mix-ins?
Yes—cheese, herbs, or even diced jalapeños work well.
How do I keep them fluffy?
Don’t overmix the dough and bake at a high temp for lift.
What do they pair best with?
Soups, stews, fried chicken, breakfast eggs, or honey and jam.
🏁 Conclusion
These Fluffy Butter Swim Biscuits with Crispy Edges are the ultimate comfort food: buttery, soft inside, and golden on the outside. With no rolling or cutting, they’re one of the easiest homemade biscuit recipes you’ll ever make.
Whether you’re serving them with a hearty dinner, enjoying them at breakfast, or sneaking one as a snack, these biscuits are guaranteed to satisfy. Once you try them, you’ll never go back to canned biscuits again.