Lemon Rolls

Introduction

Lemon Rolls are a refreshing take on the classic cinnamon roll, offering the bright, zesty flavor of lemon in every bite. The soft, fluffy dough is infused with a subtle lemon essence, while the sweet, tangy glaze adds an extra layer of sunshine to the experience.

The first time I made these for brunch, the fresh lemon scent filled the kitchen, and my family couldn’t wait to dig in. What I love about these rolls is how the balance of sweet and tart creates a flavor explosion that feels like a burst of sunshine with each bite. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a dessert that will wow your guests.

Whether served warm or at room temperature, these rolls bring that bright citrusy goodness to the table in a way that’s both comforting and exciting. If you’re a citrus lover, these Lemon Rolls will be a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Perfect for:

• Weekend breakfasts
• Brunch gatherings
• Special occasions
• Citrus lovers
• Homemade gifts

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Rolls

Here’s why Lemon Rolls will become your new go-to treat:

• Soft and Fluffy Texture: The dough is light and pillowy, creating the perfect base for the tangy lemon filling.
• Zesty Lemon Flavor: The combination of lemon zest and juice gives these rolls a refreshing citrus kick, complementing the sweetness of the glaze.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, these rolls are easy to prepare, even for beginners.
• Versatile and Customizable: While the lemon flavor is the star, you can add ingredients like poppy seeds or cream cheese to tailor the rolls to your taste.
• Perfectly Sweet: The glaze strikes a perfect balance between sweet and tart, without being overpowering.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 2 hours
• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Servings: 12 rolls
• Calories per serving: Approximately 220-250 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 4g, Carbs: 34g, Fat: 8g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Lemon Rolls:

For the Dough:

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet active dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest (about 2 lemons)

Lemon Filling:

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest

Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1-2 tablespoons milk (for desired consistency)

Ingredient Highlights

• Lemon Zest: Adds a vibrant citrus flavor that is both fragrant and tangy, making these rolls stand out.
• Butter: Ensures the rolls are rich and tender, creating the perfect texture for soft, fluffy dough.
• Yeast: The yeast helps the dough rise, creating the ideal soft and airy texture for each roll.
• Powdered Sugar: The glaze is smooth and perfectly sweet, complementing the tartness of the lemon.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Lemon Rolls:

Prepare the Dough:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir until the yeast dissolves, then let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, eggs, and lemon zest. Add the yeast mixture and stir to combine.
3. Add the Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. You may need to use your hands to bring it together.
4. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
5. Let it Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Prepare the Filling:

6. Make the Lemon Filling: While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth and creamy.

Assemble the Rolls:

7. Roll out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it into a rectangle about 12×18 inches in size.
8. Spread the Filling: Spread the lemon filling evenly over the dough, leaving about ½ inch border along the edges.
9. Shape the Rolls: Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the edges to seal.
10. Cut the Rolls: Using a sharp knife or dental floss, slice the dough into 12 even rolls.
11. Place in the Pan: Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving a little space between each one.
12. Let it Rise Again: Cover the pan with a kitchen towel and let the rolls rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until they are puffed up.

Bake the Rolls:

13. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
14. Bake: Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and cooked through. You can check for doneness by gently tapping on the center roll—if it sounds hollow, they’re ready.
15. Cool: Let the rolls cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before glazing.

Make the Glaze:

16. Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and milk until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more milk if needed.

How to Serve Lemon Rolls

Lemon Rolls are perfect for any occasion:

• For Breakfast or Brunch: Serve these warm rolls with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful start to the day.
• As a Dessert: These rolls make a fantastic dessert option, especially when served with fresh berries or whipped cream.
• Gift-Giving: Pack these rolls in a cute box or tin for a homemade gift that everyone will appreciate.
• With a Hot Beverage: Pair them with a hot drink like coffee, tea, or hot chocolate for the ultimate cozy treat.

Additional Tips for Lemon Rolls

Here are some tips to ensure your Lemon Rolls are perfect every time:

• Use Fresh Lemon Juice and Zest: For the best flavor, use fresh lemon juice and zest. The citrus oils in the zest will add a punch of flavor to the rolls.
• Don’t Skip the Second Rise: Allowing the rolls to rise again after they’ve been cut is essential for a light, fluffy texture.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the butter and eggs are at room temperature for the smoothest dough and filling.
• Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the rolls as they bake. They should be golden brown on top, but be careful not to overbake them, as they can dry out.
• Serve Warm: These rolls are best served fresh out of the oven while they are still warm and soft.

Recipe Variations for Lemon Rolls

Here are 10 variations you can try for Lemon Rolls:

• Lemon Poppy Seed Rolls: Add a tablespoon of poppy seeds to the lemon filling for a delightful crunch.
• Blueberry Lemon Rolls: Add fresh or frozen blueberries to the filling for a fruity twist.
• Lemon Cream Cheese Rolls: Spread cream cheese along with the lemon filling for a creamy, rich flavor.
• Lemon and Lavender Rolls: Add a teaspoon of dried lavender to the filling for a fragrant floral note.
• Lemon Raspberry Rolls: Mix in fresh raspberries for a tangy berry pairing with the lemon.
• Lemon Almond Rolls: Add chopped almonds to the filling for added texture and nutty flavor.
• Lemon Coconut Rolls: Stir in shredded coconut to the filling for a tropical twist.
• Lemon Glaze with Orange Zest: Substitute orange zest for lemon zest in the glaze for a citrusy combo.
• Lemon Rolls with a Streusel Topping: Top the rolls with a crumbly streusel before baking for a sweet, buttery crunch.
• Lemon and Honey Rolls: Replace some of the sugar in the filling with honey for a naturally sweet flavor.

Freezing and Storage for Lemon Rolls

• Freezing: These rolls can be frozen after baking. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.
• Storage: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They can also be stored in the fridge for up to a week, but they are best enjoyed within a few days.

Special Equipment for Lemon Rolls

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Lemon Rolls easier:

• Electric Mixer: A stand or hand mixer will help you mix and knead the dough quickly.
• Rolling Pin: For rolling out the dough evenly to the perfect thickness.
• 9×13-inch Baking Dish: A rectangular baking dish is ideal for baking the rolls.
• Kitchen Towel: To cover the dough while it rises, keeping it warm and preventing it from drying out.
• Zester: A fine zester or microplane will help you get the perfect amount of lemon zest.
• Wire Rack: A cooling rack lets the rolls cool evenly and prevents them from becoming soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions for Lemon Rolls

1. Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
   Yes! You can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the fridge overnight. In the morning, just shape, rise, and bake.
2. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
   Fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor, but if you must use bottled juice, make sure it’s 100% lemon juice for the most authentic taste.
3. Can I freeze the dough?
   Yes, you can freeze the dough after the first rise. Shape the rolls, then freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring them to a zip-top bag for storage.
4. Can I use a different citrus?
   Yes, lime or orange zest and juice would also work well in these rolls for a different citrusy flavor.
5. Can I skip the glaze?
   If you prefer a less sweet option, you can skip the glaze and simply enjoy the rolls with the natural lemon filling.

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Conclusion

Lemon Rolls are the ultimate treat for anyone craving a burst of citrus flavor! These soft, fluffy rolls offer a perfect balance of tangy lemon zest and sweet, melt-in-your-mouth dough. Whether you’re having them for breakfast, brunch, or as a dessert, they’re sure to add a refreshing twist to your meal.

These rolls are so versatile, allowing you to get creative with different fillings or toppings. A generous glaze adds that final sweet touch, making them irresistible to anyone who takes a bite. Whether you’re serving them at a special gathering or simply indulging in a bit of sunshine on a regular day, these rolls are guaranteed to put a smile on your face.

I can’t wait to see how your Lemon Rolls turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and be sure to tag me—I’d love to see your zesty creation! Happy baking!