Spiced Cinnamon Raisin Biscuits A Perfect TeaTime Treat

Instructions:

1. Combine raisins, hot water, and rum (if using) in a small bowl. Let soak while you prepare the dough. Drain well before using.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
3. Using a pastry cutter or two knives, cut the cold butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Gradually add the cold buttermilk to the flour mixture, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently pat the dough into a 1-inch thick rectangle.
6. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon.
7. Spread the cinnamon mixture evenly over the dough rectangle. Sprinkle the drained raisins over the cinnamon mixture. This is how you get perfect cinnamon raisin biscuits.
8. Starting from one short end, tightly roll the dough into a log. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 8 equal pieces.
9. Place the biscuit slices in a lightly greased 9-inch round cake pan or on a baking sheet.
10. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 18-22 minutes, or until golden brown.
11. While the biscuits are baking, prepare the glaze (optional) by whisking together milk/cream and sugar. Brush the warm biscuits with the glaze immediately after removing them from the oven.
12. Let the biscuits cool slightly in the pan or on the baking sheet before serving warm. Enjoy your cinnamon raisin biscuits!