These Lemon Biscuit Balls are delightful, bite-sized treats bursting with zesty lemon flavor. With a soft and tender texture, these biscuit balls are easy to make and perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a quick dessert, a snack, or a sweet treat for a party.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Rest Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 eggs
- 125 grams sugar (approximately 1/2 cup)
- 125 ml sunflower oil (approximately 1/2 cup)
- 125 grams plain yogurt (approximately 1/2 cup)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Pinch of salt
- 450 grams durum or soft wheat semolina (approximately 2 1/4 cups)
- 10 grams baking powder (approximately 2 teaspoons)
- 200 grams powdered sugar (approximately 1 1/2 cups), for coating
Directions:
1. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- Whisk eggs and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 eggs and 125 grams sugar until well combined.
- Add oil and yogurt: Mix in 125 ml sunflower oil and 125 grams plain yogurt. Stir until the mixture is smooth.
2. Add Lemon Zest and Dry Ingredients:
- Add lemon zest: Stir in the zest of 1 lemon and a pinch of salt.
- Add semolina and baking powder: Gradually incorporate 450 grams semolina and 10 grams baking powder, stirring until a dough forms.
3. Rest the Dough:
- Let the dough rest for 5 minutes to allow the semolina to absorb the liquids and firm up slightly.
4. Form the Biscuit Balls:
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F).
- Roll into balls: Take small portions of the dough and roll them into balls about 1 inch in diameter.
- Coat with powdered sugar: Roll each ball in powdered sugar until well coated.
5. Bake:
- Prepare the baking sheet: Place the biscuit balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden.
6. Cool and Serve:
- Let the lemon biscuit balls cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve at room temperature, dusted with extra powdered sugar if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
- With tea or coffee: Serve these lemon biscuit balls with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack.
- Extra sweetness: Dust with additional powdered sugar for an extra sweet finish.
- Pair with dessert: Enjoy with a scoop of lemon sorbet or vanilla ice cream for a refreshing dessert.
Cooking Tips:
- Resting the Dough: Letting the dough rest helps the semolina absorb the liquids, making it easier to shape into balls.
- Lemon Zest: Add more zest or a few drops of lemon extract for a more intense lemon flavor.
- Even Baking: Space the biscuit balls evenly on the baking sheet to ensure even baking.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Lemon: Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, adding a zesty flavor.
- Yogurt: Adds creaminess and provides calcium and probiotics.
- Semolina: Adds a unique texture and is a good source of fiber.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Dairy-Free: No (contains yogurt)
- Gluten-Free: No (contains semolina)
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 12g
- Vitamin C: 2mg
- Calcium: 20mg
- Iron: 1mg
Storage:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Refrigerator: Store in the fridge for up to 1 week; bring to room temperature before serving.
- Freezer: Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a ziplock bag or airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: These lemon biscuit balls come together quickly and bake in just minutes.
- Bursting with Flavor: The fresh lemon zest gives these biscuits a refreshing, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with their sweetness.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for parties, snacks, or a sweet treat after dinner.
- Delightful Texture: Soft and tender on the inside with a slightly crisp exterior.
Conclusion:
These Lemon Biscuit Balls are the perfect combination of sweet and tangy, with a light, fluffy texture that makes them irresistible. Easy to make and full of fresh lemon flavor, they’re sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re serving them for a special occasion or as a treat for yourself, these biscuit balls are a delightful addition to any dessert spread. Enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use all-purpose flour instead of semolina?
Yes, you can substitute semolina with all-purpose flour, but the texture will be softer and less grainy. - Can I make these biscuit balls gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of semolina to make these biscuits gluten-free. - How do I know when the biscuits are done?
The biscuits are done when the tops are lightly golden and they have puffed up slightly. They should feel firm to the touch. - Can I add other flavors to the dough?
Absolutely! You can add vanilla extract, almond extract, or even a pinch of ground ginger for a different flavor profile. - What if I don’t have powdered sugar?
You can make your own powdered sugar by blending granulated sugar in a blender until it reaches a fine, powdery consistency. - Can I use lemon juice instead of lemon zest?
Lemon zest is recommended for the best flavor, but you can use a small amount of lemon juice (1-2 teaspoons) in addition to the zest for extra lemon flavor. - How can I make the biscuits more colorful?
You can add a few drops of natural food coloring to the dough for a fun, colorful twist. - Can I freeze the dough instead of the baked biscuits?
Yes, you can freeze the dough balls before baking. When ready to bake, thaw the dough balls slightly and bake as directed. - Can I make these biscuit balls ahead of time?
Yes, these biscuits can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days. - What can I serve with these lemon biscuit balls?
These biscuits pair well with tea, coffee, or cold milk. They’re also delicious served with whipped cream or a drizzle of honey.