Lemon Biscuit Balls

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  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 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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

  1. 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.
  2. Can I make these gluten-free?
    Yes, substitute semolina with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
  3. 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.
  4. Can I add other flavors?
    Absolutely! Try vanilla extract, almond extract, or a pinch of ground ginger for a new flavor twist.
  5. What if I don’t have powdered sugar?
    Make your own by blending granulated sugar in a blender until finely powdered.
  6. 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.
  7. Can I make the biscuits more colorful?
    Add a few drops of natural food coloring to the dough for a fun twist.
  8. Can I freeze the dough instead of the baked biscuits?
    Yes, freeze the dough balls before baking. Thaw slightly before baking as directed.
  9. 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.
  10. 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.