Lemon Sweet Rolls Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of biting into something sweet, zesty, and utterly comforting all at once, this Lemon Sweet Rolls Recipe is exactly the treat you need. These rolls boast a tender, fluffy dough with a bright lemon filling that infuses every bite with sunshine. Topped off with a luscious lemon glaze, they strike the perfect balance between sweet and tangy, making them a wonderful choice for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful snack. Trust me, once you try this Lemon Sweet Rolls Recipe, it will quickly become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple ingredients come together in this recipe to deliver incredible flavor and texture. Each one plays a crucial role, from the warm milk activating the yeast to the fresh lemon zest that gives these rolls their signature brightness.

• Warm milk (1/2 cup): Activates the yeast and creates a tender crumb in the dough.
• Granulated sugar (1/4 cup + 1/2 cup): Balances the tart lemon and helps the dough rise.
• Active dry yeast (1 packet): The essential leavening agent that makes the rolls fluffy and light.
• Unsalted butter (1/4 cup melted + 1/4 cup softened): Adds richness and moisture to both dough and filling.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon + 1/4 teaspoon): Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
• Large egg (1): Binds the dough and contributes to its golden color.
• All-purpose flour (2 1/2 cups plus extra): The backbone of the dough, providing structure and chew.
• Fresh lemon juice (2 tablespoons + 2 tablespoons): Brightens the filling and glaze with natural citrus zing.
• Lemon zest (1 tablespoon): Intensifies the fresh lemon flavor.
• Powdered sugar (1 cup): Forms the sweet, creamy glaze topping.
• Milk or heavy cream (1 tablespoon): Adds silkiness to the glaze.
• Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Adds a subtle depth to the glaze.

How to Make Lemon Sweet Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by mixing warm milk with a bit of sugar, then sprinkle the yeast on top. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it gets frothy and bubbly—that’s your sign the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a larger bowl, whisk together melted butter, salt, and the egg. Pour in the yeast mixture and stir everything until fully combined—this mixture is already smelling like the start of something wonderful.

Step 3: Form the Dough

Add the flour gradually, half a cup at a time, stirring to incorporate after each addition. Once combined, turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5 to 7 minutes until it feels smooth and elastic—this kneading helps develop gluten, which makes for soft, airy rolls.

Step 4: First Rise

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover with a towel. Find a cozy warm spot to let it rise for 1 to 1.5 hours until it’s doubled in size and puffy—this is where the dough becomes wonderfully light and airy.

Step 5: Make the Lemon Filling

While the dough rises, whisk together softened butter, granulated sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and salt until smooth. This bright, creamy mixture is what makes the rolls so irresistibly flavorful inside.

Step 6: Prepare the Dough for Filling

Punch down the risen dough, then roll it out on a floured surface into a 12 by 9-inch rectangle. This size is perfect for spreading that luscious lemon filling evenly.

Step 7: Add the Lemon Filling

Spread the lemon filling smoothly over the dough, making sure to leave a small border around the edges so the filling doesn’t spill out when you roll it up.

Step 8: Roll and Slice

Starting from one of the longer edges, roll the dough tightly into a log. Then cut the log into 12 even slices—you’ll see swirls of that zesty filling peek through, promising deliciousness with every bite.

Step 9: Second Rise

Place the rolls into a greased 9×13-inch pan, cover, and let them rise for another 30 minutes until they puff up nicely. This step ensures they stay soft and tender after baking.

Step 10: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20 to 25 minutes until their tops turn a gorgeous golden brown and you can catch that amazing baked aroma filling your kitchen.

Step 11: Mix the Glaze

While the rolls cool slightly, whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, milk (or cream), and vanilla extract (if using) until smooth and pourable—this glaze will elevate the rolls to pure bliss.

Step 12: Glaze and Serve

Drizzle the lemon glaze generously over the warm rolls. Let the glaze soak in just a bit before serving—this final touch adds the perfect sweet and tangy finish you’ll crave again and again.

How to Serve Lemon Sweet Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

For an extra pop of color and texture, sprinkle some finely chopped fresh mint leaves or a few thin lemon slices on top of the glazed rolls. A light dusting of additional lemon zest can also add a vibrant aroma and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

Lemon Sweet Rolls pair beautifully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea, especially something floral like chamomile or jasmine. For a fuller brunch spread, add fresh berries or a bowl of Greek yogurt topped with honey and nuts to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try arranging the rolls in a round bundt pan to bake for a stunning pull-apart presentation that’s perfect for sharing. Alternatively, serve individual rolls in small ramekins with a side of whipped cream or lemon curd for an elegant touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Lemon Sweet Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They stay soft and moist, ready to enjoy whenever a sweet craving strikes.

Freezing

If you want to save these rolls longer, freeze unglazed rolls after the second rise. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake fresh or warm them up in the oven.

Reheating

To revive stored Lemon Sweet Rolls, pop them in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes or microwave gently for 20-30 seconds. Add fresh glaze if you’d like to restore that perfect finish and enjoy them warm, as if just baked.

FAQs

Can I use lemon extract instead of fresh lemon juice and zest?

Yes, lemon extract can be a convenient substitute, but fresh lemon juice and zest offer a brighter, more natural flavor that makes this Lemon Sweet Rolls Recipe truly special.

What type of yeast is best for this recipe?

Active dry yeast is perfect because it activates well in warm milk and gives the best rise for soft rolls. If you use instant yeast, adjust the process slightly by mixing it directly with flour.

Can I make these rolls vegan?

You can substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a flax egg or other egg replacer. The dough may be slightly different in texture, but still deliciously satisfying.

How long can I let the dough rise?

The first rise should take about 1 to 1.5 hours in a warm spot. Avoid letting it rise too long, or it could overproof and collapse, resulting in dense rolls instead of fluffy ones.

Are these rolls suitable for freezing after baking?

Yes! You can freeze fully baked rolls once cooled. Wrap them tightly and reheat gently for a fresh-out-of-the-oven experience anytime you want.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Sweet Rolls Recipe is more than just a baked treat; it’s a little slice of sunshine you can enjoy any day of the year. The balance of light, fluffy dough and the lively lemon filling creates a combination that feels both comforting and refreshingly bright. I encourage you to bake these rolls and experience how simple ingredients can create something truly extraordinary. Once you start, you’ll never want to stop making this recipe a regular in your kitchen.

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