Amors de Llimona
Introduction to Amors de Llimona
Amors de Llimona, translating to "Lemon Love" in Catalan, is a delightful pastry hailing from the Catalonian region of Spain. Known for its exquisite balance of tangy and sweet flavors, this dessert is a homage to the beloved citrus fruit—the lemon. This dish traces its origins back to the coastal town of Sitges, where it was traditionally enjoyed as a summer treat, providing a refreshing contrast to the hot Mediterranean climate.
Ingredients
Preparation Steps
Prepping the Ingredients
Begin by collecting fresh lemons for zesting and juicing. Our butter should be softened to room temperature, while the almonds need to be finely ground into almond meal. Measure out all dry ingredients including flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
With sugar, we will enhance both the dough and the lemon glaze that crowns the dessert.
Creating the Dough
In a mixing bowl, cream the butter together with sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Incorporate the zest of the lemons to infuse the batter with a fresh citrus aroma. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully integrated before adding the next.
Combine the ground almonds with the sifted flour and baking powder. Gradually fold these dry components into the wet mixture, followed by a generous squeeze of lemon juice, to create a coherent dough.
Baking the Amors de Llimona
- Preheat your oven to 180°C.
- Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Spoon the dough onto the prepared tray, spacing each piece equally to allow spreading.
- Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges turn a delicate golden hue.
- Set a timer to monitor and prevent over-baking.
Making the Lemon Glaze
While the biscuits bake, prepare a silky glaze by mixing freshly squeezed lemon juice and sifted confectioners’ sugar. Stir until a thick, pourable consistency is achieved. Adjust the balance of sweet and tart to personal preference.
Enjoying Amors de Llimona
Once cooled, drizzle the fragrant glaze over the Amors de Llimona, allowing it to set before serving. These pastries can be paired with a steaming cup of tea or delicately plated alongside yogurt for a luxurious breakfast option.
The bright flavors of the lemons are the star of this dessert, providing a luscious, sunny experience reminiscent of Catalonia's warm days.