Mary Berry Lemon Shortbread Biscuits Recipe

Mary Berry Lemon Shortbread Biscuits Recipe

Delight in the classic taste of Mary Berry's Lemon Shortbread Biscuits, a perfect blend of tangy lemon and buttery shortbread that promises to be a treat for your taste buds. This traditional Scottish recipe, brought to life by the renowned Mary Berry, is a simple yet elegant dessert that's perfect for any occasion.

Mary Berry Lemon Shortbread Biscuits Recipe: A Brief Overview

Mary Berry's Lemon Shortbread Biscuits are a delightful twist on the classic shortbread, incorporating the zest and juice of lemons to offer a refreshing citrus flavor. These biscuits strike the perfect balance between the rich, buttery taste of traditional shortbread and the bright, tangy notes of lemon.

Cultural or Historical Context

Shortbread has a rich history, dating back to Scotland in the medieval times. Originally a festive treat, it has become a year-round favorite. Mary Berry, a beloved figure in the baking world, adds a refreshing twist to this classic with her lemon version, blending tradition with a zest of modern flavor.

Ingredients List

  • Lemon Zest & Juice: The zest of 3 lemons and 2 teaspoons of lemon juice bring a vibrant citrus flavor.
  • Plain Flour: 340 grams for the perfect texture.
  • Granulated Sugar: 113 grams to sweeten the biscuits.
  • Butter: 227 grams, salted, to give the biscuits their classic rich, buttery taste.
  • Egg Yolk: Adds richness to the dough.
  • Caster Sugar: For sprinkling on top of the biscuits for extra sweetness and texture.

Preparation Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F, Gas Mark 4, 160°C fan).
  2. Cream together butter, lemon zest, and sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Incorporate lemon juice and egg yolk into the mixture.
  4. Mix in the flour to form a dough, being careful not to overmix.
  5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼ inch thick, prick all over with a fork, and cut into rounds.
  6. Bake for 16-18 minutes until golden brown, then sprinkle with caster sugar and allow to cool on a wire rack.

Storage and Reheating

These biscuits can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or frozen for up to 3 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and, if needed, briefly warm in the oven to restore texture.

Nutritional Information

Each biscuit (assuming the recipe makes 42 biscuits) contains approximately 82 calories, with 10 grams of carbohydrates, 1 gram of protein, and 5 grams of fat.

FAQ about the Lemon Shortbread Biscuits

  • Can I use margarine instead of butter? For the best flavor, butter is recommended over margarine.
  • Can I add other flavors? Yes, the recipe is versatile. Consider adding vanilla, almond extract, or even other citrus zests for a different twist.
  • How do I prevent the dough from spreading too much? Chilling the shaped biscuits before baking can help maintain their shape during baking.

Enjoy these Lemon Shortbread Biscuits with a cup of tea or as a delightful snack anytime. Their citrus twist on the classic shortbread is sure to impress.

For the full Mary Berry experience and detailed instructions, consider exploring her cookbooks or visiting the provided sources​​​​​​.

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