Lemon Rolls Recipe

Description

These Lemon Rolls are soft, buttery, and filled with a tangy-sweet lemon filling, then topped with a creamy lemon glaze. Perfect for a bright and refreshing twist on classic cinnamon rolls, they make a delightful breakfast, brunch, or dessert treat!

Ingredients

For the Dough:

3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
½ tsp salt
¾ cup warm milk (110°F or 45°C)
¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
1 egg

For the Lemon Filling:

½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
½ cup granulated sugar
Zest of 2 lemons
2 tbsp lemon juice

For the Lemon Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp milk or heavy cream
½ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a small bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
In a large bowl, combine flour and salt.
Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg. Mix until a dough forms.
Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. (Or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5 minutes.)
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Filling

In a bowl, mix softened butter, sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth.

Step 3: Roll & Fill

Punch down the dough and roll it out into a 12×16-inch rectangle.
Spread the lemon filling evenly over the dough.
Roll the dough tightly from the long side to form a log.
Slice into 12 equal rolls and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 4: Second Rise & Bake

Cover the rolls and let them rise for 30-45 minutes.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

Step 5: Make the Glaze & Serve

In a bowl, whisk powdered sugar, lemon juice, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
Drizzle over warm rolls and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with extra lemon zest for a stronger citrus flavor.
Pair with tea or coffee for a refreshing treat.

Nutrition (Per Roll – Approximate)

Calories: 280
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fat: 10g
Sugar: 15g

Tips & Variations

For Extra Fluffiness: Let the dough rise overnight in the fridge before baking.
For a Lighter Version: Reduce butter and use Greek yogurt in the filling.
For a Cream Cheese Frosting: Swap the glaze for a mix of cream cheese, powdered sugar, and lemon juice.

Saving & Storage

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
Freezing: Freeze unglazed rolls for up to 2 months. Reheat and glaze before serving.
Reheating: Microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes.