Lemon Sweet Rolls Recipe

If you’re craving something bright, tender, and utterly irresistible, this Lemon Sweet Rolls Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. These rolls boast a soft, fluffy dough infused with a tangy lemon filling that bursts with fresh citrus flavor. Finished with a glossy, sweet lemon glaze, each bite is a delightful balance of sweet and zesty, making it perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an anytime treat that feels like a sunny escape for your taste buds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Lemon Sweet Rolls Recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients that come together beautifully to create not only a flavorful dough but also a luscious filling and glaze that add layers of taste and texture. Each element contributes to the soft, tangy, and sweet profile that makes these rolls truly stand out.

• Warm milk (1/2 cup): Activates the yeast for a soft, airy dough.
• Granulated sugar (1/4 cup + 1/2 cup): Adds sweetness to the dough and filling, balancing the lemon’s tartness.
• Active dry yeast (1 packet): Provides the essential rise, making the rolls light and fluffy.
• Unsalted butter (1/4 cup melted + 1/4 cup softened): Brings richness to the dough and enhances the lemon filling.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon + 1/4 teaspoon): Enhances flavor and keeps the sweetness balanced.
• Large egg (1): Adds tenderness and helps bind the dough.
• All-purpose flour (2 1/2 cups, plus extra): Forms the soft and elastic structure of the rolls.
• Fresh lemon juice (2 tablespoons + 2 tablespoons): Infuses the filling and glaze with bright, natural citrus flavor.
• Lemon zest (1 tablespoon): Intensifies the lemon aroma and taste.
• Powdered sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the glaze and gives it that perfect smooth finish.
• Milk or heavy cream (1 tablespoon): Creates a creamy glaze texture.
• Vanilla extract (optional, 1/2 teaspoon): Adds a subtle depth to the glaze, balancing the tangy lemon.

How to Make Lemon Sweet Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by warming your milk to about 110°F – just warm enough to wake up your yeast, but not so hot that it kills it. Mix the warm milk with granulated sugar in a small bowl, then sprinkle your yeast over the top. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it’s frothy and bubbling – this is your sign that the yeast is alive and ready to work some magic in your dough.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, salt, and egg, then add your frothy yeast mixture. This wet mixture lays the foundation for a rich and tender dough that will rise beautifully.

Step 3: Form the Dough

Gradually add the flour to the wet ingredients, half a cup at a time, stirring as you go to bring everything together. Once the dough forms, transfer it to a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5 to 7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. This kneading develops gluten, giving your rolls that perfect tender yet chewy texture.

Step 4: First Rise

Lightly grease a large bowl and place your dough inside. Cover it with a clean, damp towel and set it somewhere warm. Let it rise for 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until it doubles in size – this step is crucial for those fluffy rolls everyone will rave about.

Step 5: Prepare the Lemon Filling

While the dough rises, mix together softened butter, granulated sugar, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. This sweet-tart spread is the heart of the rolls, infusing every bite with bright and delicious lemon flavor.

Step 6: Shape the Rolls

Once your dough has doubled, punch it down gently and roll it out on a floured surface into a 12 by 9-inch rectangle. Spread your lemon filling evenly over the dough but keep a small border edge so it doesn’t ooze out when rolled.

Step 7: Roll and Slice

Carefully roll the dough from one edge into a tight log. Use a sharp knife to slice this log into 12 even rolls. Arrange the rolls snugly in a greased 9 by 13-inch baking pan, letting them rest under a towel for another 30 minutes to puff up beautifully before baking.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake your rolls for 20 to 25 minutes, until they’re golden brown on top and cooked through. This short bake time ensures they stay soft and moist inside while getting a perfectly baked crust.

Step 9: Glaze and Serve

While the rolls cool slightly, whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, milk (or cream), and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle this luscious glaze over your warm rolls, allowing it to seep in and glaze each piece with shiny, sweet lemon goodness.

How to Serve Lemon Sweet Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

For an extra special touch, sprinkle a little grated lemon zest or a few thin lemon slices on top of your glazed rolls. A light dusting of powdered sugar after glazing also makes them look picture-perfect and adds a subtle sweetness.

Side Dishes

These rolls shine brightly on their own but pair wonderfully with a cup of herbal tea or freshly brewed coffee. For a brunch spread, accompany them with fresh berries, yogurt, or a light fruit salad to keep things fresh and balanced alongside the richness of the rolls.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Lemon Sweet Rolls Recipe family-style right out of the baking pan for a cozy, comforting vibe. Or place individual rolls on pretty plates with a little extra drizzle of glaze and a lemon wedge for a fancy brunch table. You can even turn them into mini desserts by adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to preserve their softness. Avoid refrigerating as it can dry them out, but if you must, warm them up before serving.

Freezing

Your Lemon Sweet Rolls Recipe freezes beautifully. Place cooled rolls in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently.

Reheating

Reheat frozen or day-old rolls by wrapping them in foil and warming them in a 300°F oven for about 10-15 minutes. For a quicker method, microwave your roll for 15-20 seconds but watch carefully to avoid drying out the soft dough.

FAQs

Can I use lemon extract instead of fresh lemon juice?

Yes, lemon extract can be used but fresh lemon juice and zest offer the brightest, most natural flavor that really brings this recipe to life. If using extract, reduce it to about 1 teaspoon to avoid overpowering the rolls.

What’s the best way to get a soft dough?

The key to soft dough is not to add too much flour and to knead just until smooth and elastic. Also, letting the dough rise fully twice helps develop that tender and airy texture.

Can I make these rolls vegan?

You can substitute the butter for a plant-based option and use a flax egg in place of the large egg. Also, swap milk for a plant milk alternative. Keep in mind that texture might be slightly different but still delicious!

How do I know when the rolls are fully baked?

They should be golden brown on top and feel springy to the touch. If you’re unsure, you can insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Can I add other flavors to the filling?

Absolutely! Adding a touch of poppy seeds or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the lemon filling can add a wonderful twist to the rolls, while still keeping that fresh lemon essence front and center.

Final Thoughts

Making these Lemon Sweet Rolls Recipe is such a joyful experience, and the reward is a batch of fragrant, soft, and wonderfully lemony rolls that make mornings or any time feel extra special. I can’t wait for you to try them out and fall in love with this bright, sweet treat just like I have!

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