These Lemon Biscuit Balls are zesty, soft treats with a tender texture, perfect for a quick snack, dessert, or party treat. With a refreshing lemon flavor, they are easy to make and delightful to serve.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Rest Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: About 20 biscuit balls
Ingredients
- Eggs: 2
- Sugar: 125g (approximately 1/2 cup)
- Sunflower Oil: 125ml (approximately 1/2 cup)
- Plain Yogurt: 125g (approximately 1/2 cup)
- Lemon Zest: Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt: A pinch
- Semolina (durum or soft wheat): 450g (approximately 2 1/4 cups)
- Baking Powder: 10g (approximately 2 teaspoons)
- Powdered Sugar: 200g (approximately 1 1/2 cups), for coating
Directions
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until well combined.
- Add sunflower oil and yogurt to the mixture and stir until smooth.
- Add Lemon Zest and Dry Ingredients:
- Stir in lemon zest and a pinch of salt.
- Gradually add semolina and baking powder, mixing until a dough forms.
- Rest the Dough:
- Let the dough rest for 5 minutes to allow the semolina to absorb the liquids and firm up slightly.
- Form the Biscuit Balls:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F).
- Take small portions of the dough and roll them into balls about 1 inch in diameter.
- Roll each ball in powdered sugar until well coated.
- Bake:
- Place the biscuit balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the biscuit balls cool slightly on the baking sheet, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions
- With Tea or Coffee: Perfect for an afternoon treat alongside your favorite hot beverage.
- Extra Powdered Sugar Dusting: Sprinkle a bit more powdered sugar before serving for a sweeter finish.
- With Ice Cream or Sorbet: Pair with lemon sorbet or vanilla ice cream for a refreshing dessert.
Cooking Tips
- Resting the Dough: Allowing the dough to rest helps the semolina absorb the liquids, making it easier to roll into balls.
- Enhanced Lemon Flavor: For a more intense lemon taste, add a bit more lemon zest or a few drops of lemon extract.
- Even Baking: Space the biscuit balls evenly on the baking sheet to ensure they bake uniformly.
Nutritional Benefits
- Lemon: Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, adding a bright, fresh flavor.
- Yogurt: Provides probiotics and calcium, contributing to the soft texture.
- Semolina: Adds a slightly grainy 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, Approximate)
- 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 Tips
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Refrigerator: Store for up to 1 week; bring to room temperature before serving.
- Freezer: Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to an airtight container or ziplock bag. 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 with minimal prep and bake time.
- Bursting with Flavor: Fresh lemon zest offers a refreshing and tangy taste.
- Great for Any Occasion: Perfect for parties, snacks, or after-dinner treats.
- Soft and Tender Texture: The semolina adds a unique, tender bite.
Conclusion
These Lemon Biscuit Balls combine a soft, delicate texture with a zesty lemon flavor, creating an irresistible treat. Easy to make and full of fresh lemony goodness, they’re sure to become a go-to dessert. Whether serving them for special occasions or enjoying them as a personal treat, these biscuit balls bring a delightful sweetness to any table.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use all-purpose flour instead of semolina?
Yes, all-purpose flour can be used, but the texture will be softer and less grainy. - Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, substitute semolina with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version. - How do I know when the biscuits are done?
They’re ready when the tops are lightly golden and the balls have puffed up slightly. - Can I add other flavors?
Absolutely! Try vanilla extract, almond extract, or a pinch of ground ginger for a new flavor twist. - What if I don’t have powdered sugar?
Make your own by blending granulated sugar in a blender until finely powdered. - Can I use lemon juice instead of lemon zest?
Lemon zest is recommended for the best flavor, but a small amount of lemon juice (1-2 teaspoons) can be added for extra lemon flavor. - Can I make the biscuits more colorful?
Add a few drops of natural food coloring to the dough for a fun twist. - Can I freeze the dough instead of the baked biscuits?
Yes, freeze the dough balls before baking. Thaw slightly before baking as directed. - Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, these biscuits can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days. - What can I serve with these lemon biscuit balls?
These biscuits are delicious with tea, coffee, or milk, or with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of honey.