In this article, I’ll walk you through how to make butter swim biscuits from scratch, what makes them different, and how you can customize them with sweet or savory twists. Whether you’re new to baking or just need something quick for breakfast, this is your go-to guide.
Table of Contents
A Buttery Story and Easy Beginning
My First Try at Butter Swim Biscuits
I’ll never forget the first time I made butter swim biscuits. It was a chilly Saturday morning in Los Angeles. I was craving something warm and comforting but didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. I remembered my cousin raving about this buttery biscuit recipe she found online. So, I gave it a shot.
The butter swim biscuit recipe was surprisingly simple. Just a few pantry staples and a stick of butter. That’s it. I mixed the dough, poured melted butter into the pan, dropped in the dough, and baked. When those butter swim biscuits came out of the oven, the smell alone had me hooked. Golden edges. Pillowy centers. Pure comfort.
That moment reminded me of growing up in New Jersey, when Nonna would pull fresh bread from the oven while we all sat around the table. These butter swim biscuits felt like home.
What Makes Butter Swim Biscuits So Special?
Butter swim biscuits are different from classic ones. Instead of cutting cold butter into flour, you melt it and pour it into the pan. The dough sits right in the butter while baking, soaking it up from the bottom while crisping on the sides.
This method gives you biscuits with golden crusts, soft middles, and rich flavor in every bite. You don’t need any fancy equipment. Just mix, pour, and bake.
The best part? They’re endlessly versatile. You can add cheese, herbs, or even fruit to the batter. I’ll share a blueberry butter swim biscuit variation later that’s become a weekend favorite.
If you love buttery comfort food, you’ll want to check out this Butter Board idea that pairs beautifully with these biscuits. Or serve them alongside a creamy Deviled Egg Dip for brunch that everyone will rave about.
Step-by-Step Butter Swim Biscuit Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need for Butter Swim Biscuits
To make classic butter swim biscuits, you only need a handful of ingredients. You probably have most of them in your kitchen right now. This butter swim biscuit recipe is all about simple, affordable baking.
You’ll need all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, buttermilk, and unsalted butter. That’s it. But here’s the trick. If you don’t have buttermilk, don’t worry. You can still make delicious butter swim biscuits. Just mix one tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar into a cup of milk and let it sit for 5 minutes. It works perfectly.
Want to make this recipe more fun? Try adding shredded cheddar, garlic powder, or fresh herbs to the mix. You can even stir in blueberries and a touch of vanilla for sweet butter swim biscuits that feel like a cozy weekend treat.
If you’re into easy breakfasts, try these keto pancakes that pair well with butter biscuits. Or prep a full brunch with our low-carb breakfast ideas for a delicious spread.
How to Make Butter Swim Biscuits from Scratch
Start by preheating your oven to 450°F. While that’s heating, melt one stick of butter and pour it into an 8×8 baking dish. Set that aside.
In a mixing bowl, combine two cups of all-purpose flour, one tablespoon of baking powder, one tablespoon of sugar, and one teaspoon of salt. Stir gently.
Add one and three-fourths cups of buttermilk to the dry mix. Stir until just combined. Don’t overmix. The dough should be sticky and soft.
Drop the dough into the dish, right into the melted butter. Spread it gently with a spoon so it reaches the edges. Slice into 9 squares before baking to help with even portions.
Bake for 25 minutes until the top is golden brown and the butter is bubbling around the edges. Let your butter swim biscuits cool for a few minutes, then serve warm.
For a twist, pair these biscuits with pesto eggs or use them as a base for turkey breakfast sandwiches.
These butter swim biscuits come out perfect every time. Golden. Crispy. Soft. You’ll never go back to dry biscuits again.
Flavor Variations and Buttermilk-Free Tips
Blueberry Butter Swim Biscuits and Sweet Twists
Butter swim biscuits aren’t just for savory cravings. They’re the perfect base for sweet versions too. My favorite? Blueberry butter swim biscuits. Bursting blueberries, a hint of vanilla, and that buttery crust make this recipe feel like dessert and breakfast all in one bite.
To make blueberry butter swim biscuits, just fold half a cup of fresh or frozen blueberries into the dough. Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract and a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra warmth. You can drizzle a quick glaze on top after baking, using powdered sugar and milk.
Butter swim biscuits also work great with lemon zest, chopped strawberries, or mini chocolate chips. If you’re hosting brunch, serve them next to this keto cinnamon roll to offer something sweet and buttery on every plate.
Want savory? Mix in shredded turkey, chives, or jalapeño for a kick. The butter keeps everything moist and flavorful.
These variations prove just how versatile butter swim biscuits can be. One dough, endless results.
How to Make Butter Swim Biscuits Without Buttermilk
Out of buttermilk? You can still enjoy soft, golden butter swim biscuits without it. Here’s the simple trick: pour one tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar into a measuring cup, then fill with milk until it reaches one cup. Let it sit for 5 minutes. That’s your quick buttermilk substitute.
This swap works beautifully in any butter swim biscuit recipe. You still get tender texture and rich taste.
Dairy-free? Use almond milk with vinegar. The flavor stays light and buttery.
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Ingredient | Substitute |
|---|---|
| Buttermilk | Milk + Vinegar |
| Buttermilk | Milk + Lemon Juice |
| Buttermilk | Almond Milk + Vinegar |
Butter swim biscuits don’t need anything fancy. Just a few good tricks and you’ll get that perfect bite every time. These swaps keep your butter swim biscuit recipe flexible and accessible for any kitchen.
Storage, Reheating, and Serving Ideas for Butter Swim Biscuits
How to Store Butter Swim Biscuits and Reheat Like Fresh
Butter swim biscuits are best fresh from the oven. But they store surprisingly well if you follow a few easy steps. Keep leftover butter swim biscuits in an airtight container. If your kitchen stays cool, the counter is fine for a day or two. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to five days.
Want to keep them even longer? Freeze your butter swim biscuits in a zip-top bag. Wrap each biscuit in parchment to avoid sticking. They’ll stay fresh for two months.
To reheat, skip the microwave. It makes them soft but can ruin the crisp edges. Instead, pop the biscuits in a 350°F oven for 7 to 10 minutes. This brings back the buttery crust while keeping the inside fluffy.
Reheated butter swim biscuits taste just as satisfying. They’re great with spreads or turned into quick turkey biscuit sandwiches.
If you’re looking for more fun ideas, check out this pickle pizza recipe. It brings a bold, tangy balance to a biscuit-based brunch.
What to Serve with Butter Swim Biscuits
Butter swim biscuits are the ultimate sidekick. They go with everything. For breakfast, serve them with scrambled eggs, roasted potatoes, or sliced turkey sausage. Add a spoonful of jam or honey for a simple, satisfying bite.
Hosting a brunch? Butter swim biscuits fit right in. Lay them out beside this keto bagels guide for a build-your-own sandwich bar.
For dinner, serve butter swim biscuits with roasted chicken, grilled vegetables, or turkey chili. They soak up sauces beautifully and bring comfort to any plate.
Don’t forget about sweet pairings. These biscuits are dreamy with whipped butter, cinnamon sugar, or even fresh fruit. They can be savory or sweet, depending on what you serve alongside.
Butter swim biscuits are endlessly useful. That’s why they’ve become one of my go-to recipes. They store well, reheat beautifully, and bring big flavor to any meal.
Print
Butter Swim Biscuits: How To Make Them In 6 Steps
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 9 biscuits 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These butter swim biscuits are fluffy, golden, and rich with butter flavor. Quick to make, with no special tools needed, and endlessly customizable.
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tbsp baking powder
1 tbsp sugar
1 tsp salt
1 3/4 cups buttermilk (or milk + lemon juice)
1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 450°F.
2. Melt butter and pour into an 8×8 baking dish.
3. In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
4. Add buttermilk. Stir gently until just combined.
5. Drop the dough into the baking dish over melted butter.
6. Spread dough evenly without overmixing.
7. Score into 9 squares with a knife.
8. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Make a dairy-free version using almond milk and vinegar.
Add blueberries, cheese, or herbs to customize.
Store in an airtight container or freeze for later.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 biscuit
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Frequently Asked Questions About Butter Swim Biscuits
How to make butter swim biscuits?
To make butter swim biscuits, combine flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, and buttermilk. Pour melted butter into a baking dish, drop the dough on top, and bake until golden. The butter soaks into the dough, creating crispy edges and soft centers. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
What are butter swim biscuits?
Butter swim biscuits are a Southern-style biscuit baked directly in melted butter. This gives them crispy bottoms, rich flavor, and tender middles. The method skips cutting in cold butter and instead lets the biscuits absorb buttery goodness while baking.
Can you make butter swim biscuits without buttermilk?
Yes. Butter swim biscuits turn out great with a homemade buttermilk substitute. Mix one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice with milk, let it sit for five minutes, and use it just like regular buttermilk.
How to make butter swim biscuits without buttermilk?
Replace the buttermilk in your butter swim biscuit recipe with one cup of milk mixed with one tablespoon of lemon juice. Let the mixture rest for a few minutes. Then proceed with the recipe. The biscuits will still be soft, fluffy, and full of buttery flavor.
How to store butter swim biscuits?
Store your butter swim biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, in the fridge for five days, or freeze them for two months. Reheat in the oven to bring back the crispy edges.
Conclusion: Butter Swim Biscuits That Fit Any Table
Butter swim biscuits are the kind of recipe that feels fancy but takes no time. They’re rich, fluffy, and packed with buttery flavor in every bite. Whether you stick to the classic butter swim biscuit recipe or mix in blueberries, herbs, or cheese, you’ll get amazing results.
These biscuits are easy to make, easy to store, and easy to love. They’re perfect for breakfast, dinner, or anything in between. Once you bake them, you’ll want them in your rotation every week.
Try them with one of our keto-friendly brunch options or next to a bold recipe like pickle pizza. Butter swim biscuits go with everything.
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