As I strolled through the sun-dappled countryside, the scent of blooming lemon trees filled the air, evocative of warm family gatherings in my grandmother’s kitchen. It was during those lazy afternoons that I first discovered the joy of sponge drops—light, airy, and sweet, they were the perfect accompaniment to a cup of tea or a lazy summer picnic. Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that captures the essence of those cherished memories while adding a gourmet twist with a hint of vanilla and a burst of citrus.
### Ingredients
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup milk
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
– Fresh berries, for serving (optional)
### Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will ensure our sponge drops bake evenly and come off the sheet effortlessly.
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until well blended, ensuring no lumps remain.
In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This typically takes about 3-5 minutes. The air you incorporate here will be the secret to achieving that light sponge texture.
Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Next, stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract, allowing the fragrant notes to meld into the batter.
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want to preserve that airy texture.
Using a spoon or a small ice cream scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma of lemon and vanilla will envelop your kitchen, transporting you to those cherished afternoons.
Once baked, allow the sponge drops to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, dust them lightly with powdered sugar for that elegant finish.
Serve your delightful sponge drops with fresh berries on the side and perhaps a dollop of whipped cream for an added touch of indulgence. These little treats are perfect for any occasion, evoking the warmth of family gatherings while bringing a touch of gourmet elegance to your table.
Enjoy your culinary journey through the countryside and the sweet memories that each bite of these lemon-vanilla sponge drops will inspire!