Classic Canadian Raisin Tea Biscuits

Name: Classic Canadian Raisin Tea Biscuits
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Yield: 12 biscuits
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and levelled); 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tbsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter (cut into small cubes); 3/4 cup milk (plus extra for brushing); 1 cup raisins (soaked in hot water for 10 minutes and drained)

27 min 12 biscuits Easy

All Recipes

Enjoy these tender and flaky raisin tea biscuits, perfect for a cozy afternoon tea.

Prep

15 min

Cook

12 min

Total

27 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Raisin tea biscuits are a beloved treat in many Canadian households, offering a delightful balance of sweetness and texture. This version is designed for those who love the simplicity and charm of a classic biscuit paired with the sweet surprise of raisins. The key to these biscuits is their flaky texture, achieved by carefully working cold butter into the flour and handling the dough as little as possible. Perfect for an afternoon tea or a quick breakfast, these biscuits are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Instructions

Preheat oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Pro tip: Ensure your oven is fully preheated for even baking.

Mix dry ingredients

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

Pro tip: Whisking helps to evenly distribute the baking powder.

Cut in butter

Add the cold butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or fingers to cut the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Pro tip: Cold butter is crucial for flakiness.

Add milk and raisins

Pour in the milk and add the drained raisins. Stir until just combined; do not overmix.

Pro tip: Overmixing can make the biscuits tough.

Shape biscuits

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times. Roll out to about 2 cm (3/4 inch) thick and cut into rounds using a 6 cm (2.5 inch) cutter.

Pro tip: Use a sharp cutter to ensure clean edges.

Bake

Place biscuits on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush with a bit of milk and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

Pro tip: Rotate the pan halfway through baking for even colouring.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Use cold butter to achieve flakiness.
Soak raisins to ensure they remain plump.
Don't overwork the dough to maintain tenderness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these raisin tea biscuits special?

Their flaky texture and sweet raisin inclusions make them a delightful treat.

How long do raisin tea biscuits last?

They last up to three days in an airtight container or a month if frozen.

Can I make these biscuits ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the dough and cut the biscuits, then freeze them before baking.

What is the best way to reheat frozen biscuits?

Bake them directly from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes.

What can I serve with raisin tea biscuits?

They pair well with butter, jam, or a hot cup of tea or coffee.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these raisin tea biscuits warm with a dollop of butter or a splash of jam. They pair excellently with a cup of hot tea or coffee, making them an ideal companion for your morning or afternoon breaks. For storage, keep them in an airtight container for up to three days, or freeze them for up to a month. Simply reheat before serving to enjoy that freshly baked taste.

Nutrition per serving

210

Calories

Protein

Fat

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