Spanish biscuits recipe: A sweet delight for every occasion
⭐ Rating: 4.8/5 (based on home cooking experiences)
👨🍳 By Chef Omar Allibhoy
🕒 Prep Time: 15 minutes
🍳 Cook Time: 20 minutes
⏰ Total Time: 35 minutes
🥘 Servings: 6
📊 Difficulty Level: Easy
Spanish biscuits, or "galletas españolas," are a delightful treat that bring the comforting flavors of Spain right into your home. These biscuits have been a staple in Spanish households for generations, often enjoyed with a cup of coffee or shared during festive gatherings.
As a chef, I’ve always believed that the simplest recipes are often the most rewarding, and these biscuits are a perfect example.
Today, I’ll show you how to create a batch of homemade Spanish biscuits that are easy to prepare and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Let’s get baking and make some sweet memories together!
Ingredients
To prepare these traditional Spanish biscuits, you will need:
200g all-purpose flour
100g sugar
100g unsalted butter, softened
1 egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp baking powder
1 pinch salt
Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for a citrusy touch)
Powdered sugar, for dusting
What are spanish biscuits?
Spanish biscuits, known for their crumbly texture and subtly sweet flavor, are a beloved treat in Spanish cuisine. They are often enjoyed during afternoon tea, breakfast, or festive occasions, showcasing Spain’s love for simple and satisfying desserts.
How to perfect your spanish biscuits
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the butter and egg are at room temperature for a smooth and even dough.
Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the dough can make the biscuits dense. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
Customize Your Flavor: Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm twist, or substitute vanilla with almond extract for a nutty flavor.
Preparation
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for a smooth texture.
Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. If using lemon zest, add it at this stage for an extra layer of flavor.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms.
Shape the Biscuits: Scoop small portions of dough and roll them into balls. Flatten each ball slightly and place them on the prepared baking tray, leaving some space between each biscuit.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the biscuits are lightly golden around the edges. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the tray for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Dust with Powdered Sugar: Once cooled, dust the biscuits generously with powdered sugar for a classic finish.
Professional Tips for Preparing Spanish Biscuits
Chill the Dough: If the dough feels too soft, refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes before shaping. This helps the biscuits hold their shape during baking.
Uniform Size: Use a cookie scoop to ensure even-sized biscuits for consistent baking.
Storage: Store the biscuits in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and crisp texture.
What to Serve with Spanish Biscuits
Spanish biscuits are versatile and pair beautifully with:
Coffee or Hot Chocolate: A warm beverage enhances the biscuits’ buttery flavor.
Fruit Preserves: Serve with your favorite jam or marmalade for a fruity contrast.
Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: Elevate the biscuits with a dollop of cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.