Perfectly Citrusy and Delightfully Soft
Soft Lemon Biscuits are the ideal blend of citrusy freshness and soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Whether you’re looking to brighten your afternoon tea or need a light dessert to share with friends, these biscuits fit the bill. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything from ingredients and preparation tips to variations and serving suggestions, ensuring you have all you need to create the perfect batch. Let’s dive into how to make these deliciously tender lemon biscuits from scratch!
Why You’ll Love These Soft Lemon Biscuits
These Soft Lemon Biscuits offer a light, zesty flavor that’s perfect for any occasion. With a quick prep time and an easy-to-follow recipe, they’re suitable for bakers of all levels. Each bite bursts with the refreshing taste of lemon, and the soft, fluffy texture is simply irresistible. The ingredients are simple, and with a few tips and tricks, you’ll be able to make these biscuits your signature treat.
Ingredients for Soft Lemon Biscuits
For the Biscuits
- 2 eggs: Adds moisture and helps bind the ingredients.
- 100 g (1/2 cup) sugar: Balances the tartness of the lemon.
- 80 ml (1/3 cup) sunflower oil: Provides softness without overpowering flavors.
- Zest of 1 lemon: Gives the biscuits their strong lemon aroma.
- 50 ml (3 tablespoons) lemon juice: Enhances the lemony flavor.
- 380 g (3 cups) all-purpose flour: Provides structure for the biscuits.
- 12 g (2 1/2 teaspoons) baking powder: Helps the biscuits rise and achieve their light texture.
For Dusting
- 80 g (1/2 cup) powdered sugar: Adds a sweet touch and a beautiful, bakery-style finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Soft Lemon Biscuits
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the biscuits from sticking.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and slightly thickened.
- Add the sunflower oil, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the bowl, and continue to mix until the ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and baking powder. Sifting ensures a light and even texture in the finished biscuits.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently to avoid overmixing. Continue until a soft dough forms.
4. Shape the Biscuits
- Using a tablespoon, scoop small portions of dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Leave about 2 inches of space between each biscuit to allow for spreading.
5. Bake
- Bake the biscuits in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake, as this can cause the biscuits to become hard.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the biscuits to cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
6. Dust with Powdered Sugar
- Once the biscuits have cooled completely, dust them with powdered sugar for a finishing touch.
Serving Suggestions
These Soft Lemon Biscuits are delicious on their own, but here are a few ways to elevate your enjoyment:
- With a Cup of Tea or Coffee: Their light, citrusy flavor pairs wonderfully with a warm beverage.
- With Lemon Curd: Adding a bit of lemon curd brings an extra punch of flavor.
- With Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds richness and makes for a dessert-like experience.
Tips for the Best Soft Lemon Biscuits
- Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice provides a more vibrant flavor than bottled juice.
- Avoid Overmixing the Dough: Mix until the ingredients are just combined. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture.
- Use Fresh Baking Powder: Make sure your baking powder is fresh and active, as this ensures your biscuits will rise properly.
- Don’t Overbake: The biscuits are ready when the edges are slightly golden. They will continue to firm up as they cool.
Variations for Soft Lemon Biscuits
Experimenting with flavor additions can lead to delightful variations of this classic biscuit:
- Vanilla Lemon Biscuits: Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract for a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the lemon.
- Coconut Lemon Biscuits: Mix in a handful of shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
- Poppy Seed Lemon Biscuits: Add a tablespoon of poppy seeds to the dough for texture and visual appeal.
- Lemon Almond Biscuits: Substitute some flour with almond flour for a nutty flavor.
Storage Instructions
To enjoy these Soft Lemon Biscuits over time, follow these storage tips:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Place a slice of bread in the container to help keep the biscuits soft.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the biscuits in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.
Nutritional Information (per Biscuit)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 23g |
| Fat | 6g |
| Sugar | 5g |
These values are based on a recipe yield of 20 biscuits.
Dietary Considerations
- Vegetarian: This recipe is entirely vegetarian-friendly.
- Nut-Free: There are no nuts in this recipe, making it safe for those with nut allergies.
- Gluten: Contains gluten from the flour. For a gluten-free option, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend; however, note that the texture may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Fresh Lemon Juice Instead of Bottled?
Yes, using fresh lemon juice is recommended as it provides a brighter and more natural lemon flavor.
What Can I Substitute for Sunflower Oil?
You can use vegetable oil or melted coconut oil as alternatives. For a richer flavor, try substituting half the oil with melted butter.
Can I Add Other Flavors?
Absolutely! Try adding vanilla extract, poppy seeds, or shredded coconut for a unique twist on the classic lemon flavor.
How Do I Know When the Biscuits Are Done?
The biscuits should be lightly golden around the edges and firm to the touch. Avoid overbaking, as this can lead to a harder texture.
Can I Prepare the Dough Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking. This is a great option if you’re short on time or want to bake the biscuits fresh on a later day.
What Type of Flour Should I Use?
All-purpose flour is recommended for this recipe, as it provides the right balance of texture and structure.
Can I Make These Biscuits Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend. Keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different.
How Long Can I Store These Biscuits?
They can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, freeze the biscuits for up to 2 months.
Is There a Vegan Option for This Recipe?
To make these biscuits vegan, replace the eggs with flaxseed eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) or applesauce. The texture may vary slightly, but the biscuits will still be delicious.
What Can I Serve with These Biscuits?
They pair beautifully with tea, coffee, or even a light fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.
These Soft Lemon Biscuits are a must-try for lemon lovers and baking enthusiasts alike. With a light, tender texture and a hint of sweetness, they make a delightful treat for any occasion. Enjoy baking and sharing these soft, zesty biscuits with friends and family!