Lemon Sweet Rolls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lemon Sweet Rolls are a bright and tangy twist on classic cinnamon rolls, featuring a soft, pillowy dough swirled with a zesty lemon-sugar filling and topped with a luscious lemon glaze. Perfect for brunch, holidays, or a cheerful breakfast treat, these rolls offer a refreshing citrus flavor that’s both comforting and invigorating.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose flouractive dry yeastgranulated sugarsaltwhole milkunsalted buttereggslemons (zest and juice)powdered sugarvanilla extract

directions

Warm the milk to about 110°F (43°C) and dissolve the yeast with a pinch of sugar. Let sit until foamy, about 5-10 minutes.

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, eggs, and softened butter. Knead until a soft, elastic dough forms.

Cover and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Mix lemon zest with granulated sugar to create the filling.

Roll out the dough into a large rectangle. Spread softened butter over the surface, then sprinkle the lemon-sugar mixture evenly.

Roll the dough tightly into a log and slice into even rolls.

Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and let rise again for 30-45 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

While the rolls bake, prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar, lemon juice, and a touch of vanilla extract.

Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 12 rolls.Preparation time: 20 minutesFirst rise: 1 hourSecond rise: 30-45 minutesBaking time: 20-25 minutesTotal time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Variations

Add cream cheese to the glaze for a richer topping.

Include a bit of lemon extract in the dough for extra citrus flavor.

Use orange zest for a different citrus profile.

Top with candied lemon peel for decoration.

storage/reheating

Store Lemon Sweet Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.To reheat, microwave individual rolls for 15-20 seconds or warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can use the same amount of instant yeast and skip the proofing step.

Can I prepare these the night before?

Yes, you can refrigerate the rolls after shaping and do the second rise in the morning.

Can I freeze Lemon Sweet Rolls?

Yes, freeze baked and cooled rolls without glaze for up to 2 months. Thaw and warm before glazing.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Use plant-based milk and vegan butter substitutes.

Why didn’t my dough rise?

Make sure your yeast is active and the milk is not too hot or too cold.

Can I make mini rolls?

Yes, cut smaller portions for bite-sized versions.

Is the glaze necessary?

It enhances the lemon flavor, but you can opt for a simple dusting of powdered sugar instead.

Can I use store-bought dough?

Yes, though homemade dough offers the best texture and flavor.

Do I need a stand mixer?

No, you can knead the dough by hand—it just takes a bit more effort.

How do I know when the rolls are done?

They should be golden on top and sound hollow when tapped.

Conclusion

Lemon Sweet Rolls are the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, bringing a refreshing burst of citrus to your breakfast table. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply treating yourself, these rolls are sure to impress with their vibrant flavor and irresistible texture.

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