Tea Biscuits With Raisins
Delightful tea biscuits with plump raisins and a hint of orange peel, perfect for breakfast or tea time, offering a sweet, citrus-infused flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large mixing bowl.
- Cut in shortening until mixture resembles coarse meal.
- Add raisins and orange peel; mix lightly.
- Combine eggs with milk.
- Add egg and milk mixture to flour mixture, stirring to blend.
- Fill greased 2-inch mini muffin pans two-thirds full.
- Bake in batches as necessary for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Remove from pans and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the egg and milk mixture. If you don't have vegetable shortening, you can substitute it with an equal amount of unsalted butter or margarine. To enhance the orange flavor, use fresh orange juice instead of milk. Make sure your oven is fully preheated to ensure even baking, and check the biscuits for doneness by inserting a toothpick.
Serving Suggestions
These tea biscuits are delightful served warm alongside a cup of tea or coffee. They pair beautifully with a spread of butter, cream cheese, or fruit preserves. For an added touch, serve them with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad. They also make a great addition to a brunch spread or can be enjoyed as a sweet snack throughout the day.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover tea biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to a month. To reheat, simply warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes, which will help restore their freshness and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tea Biscuits With Raisins contains roughly 217 calories, with 1g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 20g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other dried fruits instead of raisins?
Yes, you can easily substitute raisins with other dried fruits like cranberries, currants, or chopped dried apricots. This will give the biscuits a different flavor profile and add variety. Just ensure that any fruit you choose is chopped into small pieces to maintain the texture.
What can I do if my dough is too dry?
If your dough seems too dry, you can add a little more milk, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency. Be cautious not to add too much, as this can alter the texture of your biscuits. Mixing in a small amount of melted butter can also help to moisten the dough.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Before baking, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften slightly, making it easier to scoop into the muffin pans. This is a great way to enjoy freshly baked biscuits with minimal effort.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).