Skip to main content

Amazing 6 Ingredient Butter Biscuit Recipe

Are you tired of complicated biscuit recipes that leave you with crumbly results?   Today, I'm sharing a biscuit recipe for the easiest, tasty biscuits you'll ever make. This biscuit recipe, which I affectionately call "Lazy Cook Biscuits", is so simple, that even the most biscuit-phobic person can whip them up in a flash. 

You might know this recipe by other names like "Butter Dip Biscuits" or "Butter Swim Biscuits". Trust me, whatever you call them, I think you'll agree they're a home cook's dream. So ditch the complicated instructions in favor of biscuit bliss with minimal effort. Let's bake! ‍

Butter Swim Biscuits

A butter swim biscuit on a white plate.

This isn't your grandma's traditional biscuit recipe (though I'm sure she'd approve!). It's a foolproof biscuit shortcut that delivers melt-in-your-mouth tenderness in every bite. Whether you know it as "lazy cook biscuits," butter swim biscuits," or "butter dip biscuits," this recipe is about to become your new go-to for effortless biscuit magic.

Here's Why You'll Love This Lazy Biscuit Recipe:

Minimal ingredients: You probably have everything you need in your pantry already!

Super simple steps: No rolling, cutting, or shaping required.  You just need one bowl and a few minutes of prep time.

Insanely flavorful: The butter "swim" creates a rich, decadent, buttery taste.

Perfect for any occasion: Enjoy them warm with honey, jam, or gravy, or elevate your next soup or salad.

Where Did Butter Swim Biscuits Originate?

I was curious, but unfortunately, pinpointing the exact origin of butter swim biscuits is quite challenging. Traditional recipes often travel by word-of-mouth and evolve over time, making it difficult to trace their roots. However, based on a little sleuthing, here are some possible clues:

1. Southern Roots: Many online recipes and blogs attribute the recipe to the Southern United States, with mentions of grandmothers' recipes and Texas variations. This aligns with the use of buttermilk, a common baking ingredient in the South.

2. Shortcut Technique: The "swimming" in butter can be considered a shortcut technique, possibly derived from other butter-dominant biscuit recipes like "drop biscuits" or "spoon rolls." These simpler methods may have evolved from more traditional biscuit-making processes. Some may call it a "happy accident".

 3. Name Variations: The existence of various names like "butter dip biscuits" and my "lazy cook biscuits" suggests the recipe might have spread and adapted in different regions or families, making it hard to pinpoint a single source.

4. Recent Popularity: While the origins remain uncertain, the recipe seems to have gained wider online popularity in recent years, likely due to its simplicity and deliciousness. Let's face it, busy cooks like us love simplicity!

Overall, while the exact origin of butter swim biscuits remains a mystery, it likely comes from Southern culinary traditions and has evolved through regional adaptations and personal interpretations. Its growing online presence suggests it's now a loved recipe by many, regardless of its origin. 

My Lazy Cook Butter Biscuits (aka Butter Swim Biscuits) Recipe

This recipe delivers fluffy, golden biscuits with minimal effort. You'll love the simple, accessible ingredients.  I've even included a substitute for buttermilk. Don't be fooled by the simple ingredients and steps - these beauties are a tasty alternative to traditional biscuits!

You Will Need:

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder 
  • 1-1/2 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1-1/2 teaspoon salt 
  • 1stick of unsalted butter, melted 
  • 1-3/4 cups buttermilk, or buttermilk substitute (recipe below)
A woman in a kitchen holding a glass baking dish with a stick of butter in it.

The Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Lightly grease an 8x8-inch (or 9x9-inch) baking dish.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.

3. If making a buttermilk substitute: measure 2 cups of milk into a measuring cup.  Remove two tablespoons of milk.  Add 2 tablespoons of lemon juice or vinegar. Let sit for 5 minutes, allowing it to curdle and mimic buttermilk.

4. Pour buttermilk, or buttermilk substitute mixture, into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Don't overmix!

5. Melt butter in a saucepan or microwave. Pour the melted butter into the prepared baking dish, tilting it to coat the bottom evenly.

6. Gently drop biscuit dough onto the melted butter, spreading to evenly cover the pan.

7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

9. Let cool slightly before serving warm.

A pan of butter swim biscuits.


Tips:

* Don't overmix the dough. A few lumps are okay and contribute to a flakier texture.

* Feel free to adjust the baking time slightly depending on your oven.

* You can substitute self-rising flour for all-purpose flour and omit the baking powder and salt.

* Get creative with toppings! These biscuits are delicious with savory or sweet options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different milk to make the buttermilk substitute? 

Yes, you can use whole milk, low-fat milk, or half and half. The final texture may vary slightly, but your biscuits will still be delicious.

What if I don't have lemon juice?

You can substitute white vinegar or apple cider vinegar in equal parts.

Do I have to use all-purpose flour? 

You can try self-rising flour instead, but omit the baking powder and salt in the recipe. The texture might be slightly denser.

My dough seems too wet/dry. What do I do?

If the dough is too wet, add a little bit more flour by tablespoons until it reaches a manageable consistency. If it's too dry, add a splash of milk, just a teaspoon at a time.

How long will these biscuits stay fresh?

Store leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Can I reheat these biscuits?

Yes, you can reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through. They are tasty cut in half and heated on a griddle with a little butter, too.

The Butter Biscuits Recipe

Butter Swim Biscuits, Butter Dip Biscuits, Biscuits
Bread
American
Yield: 9
Author: Donna Urso
Amazingly Easy Butter Biscuits

Amazingly Easy Butter Biscuits

A one-pan, no-fuss, butter biscuit recipe often called Butter Swim Biscuits or Butter Dip Biscuits.
Prep time: 10 MinCook time: 20 MinTotal time: 30 Min

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Lightly grease an 8x8-inch (or 9x9-inch) baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
  3. If making a buttermilk substitute: measure 2 cups of milk into a measuring cup. Remove two tablespoons of milk. Add 2 tablespoons of lemon juice or vinegar. Let sit for 5 minutes, allowing it to curdle and mimic buttermilk.
  4. Pour buttermilk, or buttermilk substitute mixture, into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Don't overmix!
  5. Melt butter in a saucepan or microwave. Pour the melted butter into the prepared baking dish, tilting it to coat the bottom evenly.
  6. Gently drop biscuit dough onto the melted butter, spreading to evenly cover the pan.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  8. Let cool slightly before serving warm.

Notes

* Don't overmix the dough. A few lumps are okay and contribute to a flakier texture.

* Feel free to adjust the baking time slightly depending on your oven.

* You can substitute self-rising flour for all-purpose flour and omit the baking powder and salt.

* Get creative with add-ins! These biscuits are delicious with savory or sweet options.

Nutrition Facts

Calories

225.39

Fat (grams)

10.96 g

Sat. Fat (grams)

6.75 g

Carbs (grams)

27.53 g

Fiber (grams)

0.94 g

Net carbs

26.59 g

Sugar (grams)

0.75 g

Protein (grams)

4.13 g

Sodium (milligrams)

286.59 mg

Cholesterol (grams)

28.46 mg

Please use this nutritional information as a guide only.

Comments

More Popular Posts

How to Make a Perfect Bacon and Eggs Breakfast

In my opinion, the best breakfast consists of two perfectly fried eggs, crispy bacon, and toast made with hearty bread. This bacon and eggs recipe delivers. Bacon and eggs or eggs and bacon? No matter, it is definitely the breakfast you want on those lazy mornings when you have time to relax around the kitchen table, drinking a cup of coffee or two. The Best Bacon and Eggs Breakfast (This post contains affiliate links for your shopping convenience.  When you make a purchase using these links you help support this blog.) How to Cook Bacon and Eggs My technique was learned from my mom, by watching her make our family's breakfast over and over again, year after year.  This is a basted egg recipe which means the eggs are cooked in bacon grease. Cooking eggs in bacon fat is easy and takes just a little practice to perfect. All you really need for a great bacon and eggs breakfast is a good nonstick skillet and a good toaster . If you want to make your own bre...

The Best Asian Dipping Sauce You'll Ever Taste

If you're looking for a versatile, easy-to-make Asian dipping sauce perfect for sushi and dumplings, then you've come to the right place. This recipe for the best Asian dipping sauce is perfect for any time you want a  kick of delicious Asian flavor. An Asian Dipping Sauce for Sushi and Dumplings Try this if you are looking for a dipping sauce that is a little more flavorful than you typically get with your takeout order. You'll love it with dumplings, too!

Traditional New England Whoopie Pies

Are you looking for the best whoopie pie recipe?  Whoopie pies are a quintessential New England dessert and a memorable treat from my childhood.   My mom would make them for us every once in a while.  Oh, what a treat to come home from school to a platter of chocolate whoopie pies!  Yum! Today I'm sharing my recipe for the best-ever whoopie pies. The Best Whoopie Pies Recipe without Marshmallow Fluff Whoopie Pies Whoopie pies are soft round cookie-like cakes with a smooth cream filling sandwiched in the center. Debate rages about the whoopie pie's origin.  Some say these goodies originated in New England, others say they originated with the Amish.   There is also debate about what ingredients should be in the filling.  Many recipes include fillings made with Marshmallow Fluff or buttercream but neither is  traditional, in my opinion.  The whoopie pie of my childhood is a traditional Maine whoopie p...

Bread Machine Dinner Rolls

Are you looking for an easy dinner roll recipe? The easiest way to make fresh dinner rolls is with your bread machine. Relax while you use the dough setting of your bread machine to get the time-intensive steps out of the way. You'll be delighted with the results of this easy bread machine dinner roll recipe. The best bread machine dinner rolls are the ones you make yourself. How to Make Bread Machine Dinner Rolls This post contains Amazon affiliate links. When you use your bread machine to make dinner rolls most of the work is done by the machine.  You'll be delighted with how easy it is to make fresh rolls. While most of the work is being done by the bread machine you can be doing something else.

Grandma's Soft and Chewy Date-Filled Cookies

One of the things I can count on as the Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons arrive each year is a feeling of nostalgia. The traditional foods we serve at our family's holiday tables can sure bring out all the feels. Now that it is officially cookie season, we should kick it off with an old-fashioned homemade date-filled cookie recipe. This is a soft, tender cookie with dates that is a special, nostalgic, family recipe.   An Old-Fashioned Date Cookies Recipe This old-fashioned, date-filled cookie was my dad's favorite cookie from his childhood. My dad was born in 1932 so this recipe has been around for quite a while. 

How to Trap and Get Rid of Fruit Flies

Fruit flies can be a huge annoyance at certain times of the year. What can you do to kill fruit flies? We've all been there wondering how to get rid of fruit flies.  Fruit flies in the kitchen.  Fruit flies in the bathroom.  Fruit flies buzzing around everywhere in your home.   It's a frustrating problem that happens to everyone at one time or another.  If you are a fresh fruit and produce lover you certainly know what I mean. How to Kill Fruit Flies with Two Ingredients Those pesky little buggers can often be brought into your home on the vegetables and fruit you buy. You don't have to tolerate the annoyance.  This homemade fruit fly trap is one I have been using for many years and it works every time. 

Winter Care for Orchids and African Violets

Are you familiar with the term "hygge"?  It's a Danish term that has caught on in the U.S. because it speaks to the feelings of coziness and relaxation we seek during the winter months.  It emphasizes the simple things in life and the feelings of a life well-lived.   One of the ways I create hygge this time of year is by making sure my collection of African violets and orchids is happy and healthy, How to Care for African Violets and Orchids During Winter This post contains affiliate links.  We receive a small compensation when you shop with these links. Your houseplants are most likely crying out for some attention right now.  If you are like me, you ignored them a bit during the busy holidays.  After all the festive decorations are put away, it's time to give your plants a lovely spa treatment.  Read on for tips on how to care for orchid plants and African violets in winter.

Five Keys to Growing A Healthy Ficus Tree

Have you ever wondered how a single Ficus benjamina tree could become a beloved part of your home for decades, thriving and growing alongside your family?  If you haven’t yet, you might consider the addition of this living, air-purifying companion in your home that not only beautifies your space but also stands the test of time.  You may know this tree as either a Ficus benjamina or a weeping fig.   I have loved growing a ficus tree in my home for 36 years. It’s remarkable that I've had this tree for so long.   How to Grow A Ficus Tree Inside for Decades This post includes affiliate links. I may receive compensation when you use these links. When thinking about how I managed to keep this indoor ficus tree happy, healthy, and growing strong all these years it boiled down to five key Ficus benjamina plant care tips. Follow these tips and you can have a happy, healthy ficus tree in your home for many years, too.

Cinnamon Raisin Bread: A Bread Machine Recipe

Are you craving a warm, cozy treat perfect for fall mornings? Look no further than this delicious cinnamon raisin yeast bread. Baked in a bread machine, this recipe is incredibly easy to make and offers a classically delightful blend of flavors that's sure to satisfy.  Easy Homemade Cinnamon Raisin Bread This post contains affiliate links. Whether you're serving it as a comforting breakfast on a chilly morning or enjoying it as a sweet afternoon snack, this cinnamon raisin yeast bread is a versatile and delicious addition to your fall recipe rotation. Its soft, fluffy texture and warm, inviting aroma make it a favorite among both young and old. 

Amaretti Cookies for Your Christmas Cookie Platter

Are you looking for Christmas cookie suggestions? During the holiday season, while you're pondering classic Christmas cookie favorites like sugar cookies and gingerbread men, consider adding a touch of Italian flair to your Christmas cookie platter.  Try Amaretti, delicate Italian almond cookies, with a subtly sweet flavor and crumbly texture. They are sure to become a cherished family treat. These classic Italian cookies have become a favorite Christmas cookie at my house. How to Make Classic Italian Amaretti Cookies Homemade Amaretti cookies bring a touch of sophistication and elegance to any dessert spread, making them perfect holiday treats. Their crisp, slightly chewy texture offers a delightful contrast to the usual soft, gooey holiday desserts. With a subtle almond sweetness, these cookies appeal to adults and kids alike and bring a taste of Italy to your holiday table. What Are Amaretti Cookies? Amaretti cookies have a rich history i...