Lemon Sweet Rolls with Lemon Glaze Recipe

If you have a soft spot for sweet, tangy treats that fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas, you are going to love this Lemon Sweet Rolls with Lemon Glaze Recipe. These fluffy, tender rolls are infused with fresh lemon zest and topped with a glossy, citrusy glaze that perfectly balances sweetness and brightness. Each bite offers a delightful harmony of buttery dough and zesty lemon flavor, making them an ideal breakfast indulgence or a sunny afternoon snack that feels like a warm hug.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to achieving that perfect texture and burst of lemony goodness in your rolls. Each element plays a crucial role, from the yeast that lightens the dough to the fresh lemon zest that provides that unmistakable zing.

• Active dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons): The magic ingredient that makes your dough rise and become delightfully fluffy.
• Warm milk, ½ cup (110°F/45°C): This warms the yeast just right to activate it without killing the living organisms.
• Granulated sugar, ¼ cup: Adds sweetness and feeds the yeast for a good rise.
• Unsalted butter, ¼ cup melted: Brings richness and a tender crumb to your rolls.
• Lemon zest, 2 teaspoons: Infuses the dough with fresh citrus aroma and flavor.
• Vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon: Enhances the flavor complexity and complements the lemon.
• Lemon extract, 1 teaspoon (optional): Boosts the lemon intensity if you want an extra zing.
• Large eggs, 2: Bind ingredients and add moisture for a soft texture.
• All-purpose flour, 3 ½ cups: The foundation that gives structure and chewiness.
• Salt, ½ teaspoon: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• Powdered sugar, ¾ cup (for icing): Creates a sweet smooth glaze with just the right consistency.
• Fresh lemon juice, 2 tablespoons (for icing): Provides tangy brightness that shines in the glaze.
• Lemon zest, 1 tablespoon (for icing): Adds texture and fresh bursts of citrus flavor atop the glaze.

How to Make Lemon Sweet Rolls with Lemon Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Begin by combining the warm milk, yeast, and granulated sugar in a small bowl. Give it a gentle stir and then let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This frothy surface is a sign that the yeast is alive and kicking, which is essential to getting those rolls nice and fluffy.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a larger bowl, whisk together melted butter, lemon zest, vanilla extract, optional lemon extract, and eggs. Once combined, add your bubbly yeast mixture. This combination creates a flavorful and aromatic base that infuses every bite with lemon and a touch of sweetness.

Step 3: Create the Dough

Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to your wet ingredients, mixing carefully until a dough forms. Then, knead it for about 6 to 8 minutes until the dough feels smooth and elastic. This kneading process develops the gluten structure, which results in rolls that are perfectly soft yet sturdy enough to hold their shape.

Step 4: First Rise

Grease a large bowl and place your dough inside. Cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap and allow it to rise for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size. This slow rise allows the flavors to develop and the dough to become light and airy, setting the stage for the fluffy rolls to come.

Step 5: Prepare the Dough for Filling

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Punch down the risen dough gently to release excess air, then roll it out on a floured surface into a 12 by 18-inch rectangle. This shape makes it easy to spread the butter and sugar filling evenly.

Step 6: Add the Filling

Generously spread softened butter all over the dough, then sprinkle it with granulated sugar and another sprinkle of lemon zest. This creates a sweet and citrusy layer that will infuse into each spiral, giving the rolls irresistible pockets of flavor.

Step 7: Roll and Cut

Starting with the longer side, roll the dough up tightly into a log shape. Use a sharp knife to slice this log into 12 even rolls. Place these spirals in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover the rolls again and let them rise for 30 minutes. This final rise helps develop their pillowy softness and a lovely golden crust during baking.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake the rolls for 20 to 25 minutes until they turn golden brown and are thoroughly cooked. The aroma of baking lemons and butter will soon fill your kitchen, making the wait absolutely worth it.

Step 9: Prepare the Lemon Glaze

While the rolls are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest to make a bright and glossy glaze. This luscious topping beautifully complements the rolls with a tangy sweetness that shines through every bite.

Step 10: Glaze and Serve

Once the rolls come out of the oven, drizzle the lemon glaze over the warm rolls. The glaze will melt slightly, seeping into the soft layers and creating a perfect balance of sweetness and citrus tang. Serve these delightful Lemon Sweet Rolls with Lemon Glaze Recipe warm for the best experience.

How to Serve Lemon Sweet Rolls with Lemon Glaze Recipe

Garnishes

Decorating your rolls can elevate their appeal. Consider scattering a few extra lemon zest curls or a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh mint leaves on top of the glaze for a pop of color and an added fresh note.

Side Dishes

These rolls pair wonderfully with a simple cup of tea or coffee, fresh berries, or even a dollop of whipped cream. A light, citrusy salad or a bowl of yogurt with honey can also complement the rolls and round out a lovely brunch spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, you can arrange the rolls in a circular pattern on a serving plate to resemble a flower. Another playful idea is to serve each roll in a small paper cup or liner for easy grab-and-go treats at gatherings or parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover rolls, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This helps maintain their soft texture and keeps the lemon glaze from drying out.

Freezing

These lemon sweet rolls freeze beautifully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.

Reheating

To revive the fresh-baked taste, warm your rolls in a microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. A quick glaze refresh can be added if desired to brighten up the sweetness and texture.

FAQs

Can I use lemon juice instead of lemon extract?

Yes! Lemon juice adds fresh acidity, but lemon extract provides concentrated lemon flavor without extra liquid. If you prefer a more natural zest, substitute with a little more lemon zest or juice, keeping in mind the moisture balance in your dough.

How do I know when the dough has risen enough?

The dough is ready when it has doubled in size and is soft and airy to the touch. You can do a simple poke test; if the indentation slowly springs back, the dough is perfectly proofed and ready for the next step.

Can I make these rolls vegan?

For a vegan version, swap butter with a plant-based alternative, use a flax or chia egg instead of the eggs, and make sure your sugar is vegan-friendly. Keep in mind the texture might be slightly different but still delicious!

Is it necessary to use fresh lemon zest and juice?

Fresh lemon zest and juice are best because they provide the brightest and most vibrant flavors. However, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch, though it may lack the fresh aroma and might taste a bit more acidic.

Can I prepare the dough the night before?

Absolutely! After kneading the dough, you can refrigerate it overnight in a covered bowl. The slow rise will develop deeper flavors, and you can shape and bake the rolls fresh in the morning, making for a convenient and delicious breakfast.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the sweet tang of freshly baked lemon rolls melting in your mouth, and this Lemon Sweet Rolls with Lemon Glaze Recipe truly delivers on all fronts. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply to brighten up your day, these rolls bring joy and sunshine to every bite. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself to this delightful, citrus-kissed indulgence—you won’t regret a single crumb!

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