Italian Citronelli [lemon biscuits]
Discover the irresistible charm of Italian Citronelli lemon biscuits. With their refreshing lemon flavour and delicate texture, these biscuits are a delightful treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Biscuit Dough
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- Zest of 2 large lemons
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Lemon Curd Filling
- 1 cup (120ml) lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 3 large egg yolks
- 5 tsp (70g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
Additionally
- Icing sugar (confectioner’s sugar) for dusting
Instructions
Make the Lemon Curd:
- Combine lemon juice, zest, sugar, and egg yolks in a medium saucepan.
- Whisk constantly over medium heat until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 5-7 minutes).
- Remove from heat and immediately stir in the cold butter until completely melted and smooth.
- Strain the curd through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl. Cover with plastic wrap (touching the surface to prevent skin from forming) and refrigerate until completely chilled.
Make the Biscuit Dough:
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the sugar, lemon zest, and softened butter until it's light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg until well combined. Then, mix in the lemon juice and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Shape the Biscuits:
- Divide the dough into small portions.
- Flatten each portion into a disc and create an indent in the centre with your thumb.
Fill the Biscuits:
- Add about a teaspoon of chilled lemon curd to the centre of each biscuit.
Bake:
- Place the filled biscuits on prepared baking sheets.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until slightly golden brown.
Cool and Dust:
- Allow the biscuits to cool slightly on the baking sheets before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Dust with icing sugar before serving.