Lemon Rolls Recipe

Introduction

Lemon Rolls are a delightful combination of soft, fluffy dough, tangy lemon filling, and a sweet, zesty glaze that offers the perfect balance of sweetness and citrus. These rolls are the ideal treat for brunch, dessert, or any occasion that calls for something bright and refreshing. The warm, golden buns, fresh from the oven, are filled with a luscious lemony goodness, and topped with a sweet glaze that’s just the right amount of tart and sweet.

Lemon Rolls are perfect for those who love the zing of citrus, and their soft texture and bright flavor make them a memorable treat for any meal. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned baker, these rolls are simple to make and sure to impress. Follow along with this guide to create your own batch of irresistible Lemon Rolls that are sure to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love Lemon Rolls

• Zesty Lemon Flavor: These rolls have a punch of fresh, tangy lemon that’s balanced by sweetness, making them a delightful option for citrus lovers.
• Soft, Fluffy Texture: The dough is soft, pillowy, and light, creating the perfect texture when paired with the tangy filling and sweet glaze.
• Visually Beautiful: With their golden color and shimmering glaze, Lemon Rolls are a gorgeous addition to any breakfast table or dessert spread.
• Easy to Make: Using simple ingredients and a step-by-step process, these rolls come together quickly and easily, even for novice bakers.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a Sunday brunch, a holiday gathering, or just because you crave something citrusy, Lemon Rolls are the perfect choice.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 12 rolls
• Calories per Serving: Around 250-280 calories per roll, depending on ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250-280 kcal
• Fat: 9-11g
• Carbohydrates: 37-40g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 15-18g

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 1 cup whole milk
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 large eggs
• 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Lemon Filling:

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for thickening)

For the Lemon Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon milk (optional for consistency)

Special Equipment

While making Lemon Rolls doesn’t require anything too specialized, a few key tools will make the process smoother and more efficient:

1. Electric Mixer: An electric mixer is essential for mixing the dough quickly and effectively, especially when it comes to incorporating the butter and eggs into the flour.
2. Rolling Pin: A rolling pin is helpful for flattening out the dough to the perfect thickness for rolling up the lemon filling.
3. Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish is ideal for placing the rolls in and allowing them to rise before baking.
4. Shallow Dish for Glaze: A shallow dish or bowl is great for mixing the glaze and dipping the rolls into it.
5. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are important, especially when making dough, filling, and glaze. Use standard measuring cups and spoons to ensure proper proportions.
6. Dough Scraper or Bench Scraper: This tool helps you handle the dough and cut it into the perfect portions when rolling up the filling.
7. Wire Rack: After baking, a wire rack allows air to circulate around the rolls as they cool, helping them maintain their fluffy texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

Start by warming the milk in a microwave-safe bowl or small saucepan. The milk should be warm, but not hot—about 110°F (43°C). Stir in the sugar and yeast, and allow the mixture to sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast becomes foamy. This process activates the yeast, ensuring your dough will rise properly.

In a separate bowl, combine the softened butter, eggs, and a pinch of salt. Add the yeast mixture and begin mixing everything together, either by hand or using an electric mixer fitted with a dough hook. Gradually add the flour, 1 cup at a time, until a soft dough forms. You may need to use your hands to knead the dough a bit more as it comes together.

Once the dough is mixed and smooth, cover the bowl with a clean cloth or plastic wrap. Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This rising time is essential for creating light and fluffy rolls.

2. Prepare the Lemon Filling

While the dough is rising, make the lemon filling. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and flour. Stir until everything is well incorporated, and the mixture is smooth and thick. The flour will help the filling set as it bakes, preventing it from becoming runny.

3. Roll Out the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and roll it into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches in size. The dough should be about ¼ inch thick. If the dough is sticky, lightly flour your rolling pin and hands to help with the process.

4. Add the Lemon Filling

Spread the prepared lemon filling evenly across the entire surface of the dough. Be sure to leave about a 1-inch border around the edges of the dough. This will help keep the filling from spilling out during the rolling process.

5. Roll Up the Dough

Once the filling is spread, carefully roll the dough into a tight log, starting from one of the long sides. Use your hands to gently press as you roll to ensure the filling stays inside. Once rolled, pinch the seam together to seal it.

6. Cut the Rolls

Using a sharp knife or a dough scraper, cut the dough into 12 equal pieces. Each roll should be about 1.5 inches thick. Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spacing them evenly apart. Cover the dish with a clean towel and allow the rolls to rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until they have nearly doubled in size.

7. Preheat the Oven

While the rolls rise, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the rolls are baked at the optimal temperature for a soft, golden crust.

8. Bake the Lemon Rolls

Once the rolls have risen, place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the rolls are puffed up. Keep an eye on the rolls toward the end of the baking time to ensure they don’t overcook. You want the dough to be fully baked but still soft and fluffy.

9. Prepare the Lemon Glaze

While the rolls are baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and milk in a small bowl. The glaze should be smooth and slightly thick. If it’s too runny, add a bit more powdered sugar. If it’s too thick, add a small amount of milk until you reach the desired consistency.

10. Glaze the Rolls

Once the rolls are out of the oven, allow them to cool for about 5 minutes. Then, drizzle the lemon glaze generously over the warm rolls. The glaze will melt slightly into the rolls, adding a sweet and tangy finish that perfectly complements the lemon filling.

Tips for Perfect Lemon Rolls

• Let the Dough Rise Properly: Be patient with the rising time. A slow rise helps the dough become light and fluffy.
• Don’t Overwork the Dough: When mixing and rolling the dough, be gentle to avoid deflating the air bubbles that help create soft, pillowy rolls.
• Use Fresh Lemons: Fresh lemon zest and juice will make a noticeable difference in the flavor of your rolls. Avoid using bottled lemon juice for the best taste.
• Add More Glaze: If you love a sweet glaze, feel free to make extra and drizzle more over the rolls after they cool. The glaze adds a burst of citrusy sweetness.
• Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on the rolls while baking. Overbaking can make them dry, so remove them when they are golden brown and soft.

Variations of Lemon Rolls

• Lemon Blueberry Rolls: Add ½ cup of fresh or frozen blueberries to the lemon filling for a fruity twist.
• Lemon Poppy Seed Rolls: Stir in 1-2 tablespoons of poppy seeds to the lemon filling for a subtle crunch and a slight nutty flavor.
• Lemon Cream Cheese Rolls: Add a layer of cream cheese filling alongside the lemon filling for a creamy texture that complements the tartness of the lemon.
• Lemon Cinnamon Rolls: For a spicy twist, sprinkle cinnamon and brown sugar on the dough before rolling it up with the lemon filling.

Storage and Shelf Life

Lemon Rolls are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers for a few days. Store the rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. To keep the rolls fresh, you can also wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil.

For longer storage, you can freeze the rolls. Allow the baked rolls to cool completely before freezing. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen rolls can last up to 2-3 months. To reheat, microwave them for a few seconds or warm them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-7 minutes.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Lemon Rolls

Lemon Rolls pair wonderfully with light, refreshing beverages and complement other breakfast or brunch items:

• Fresh Fruit: Serve the rolls alongside fresh fruit like berries or melon for a refreshing contrast to the sweetness.
• Tea or Iced Tea: Lemon-flavored beverages such as iced tea or hot herbal tea work beautifully with the zesty lemon flavor of the rolls.
• Coffee: A rich, bold cup of coffee balances the sweetness of the rolls and pairs well with the bright lemon flavor.
• Yogurt Parfait: For a light and healthy addition, serve a yogurt parfait with granola and fruit alongside the rolls for a balanced breakfast or brunch.

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Conclusion

Lemon Rolls offer the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, with a soft, fluffy texture and a burst of citrus that will brighten your day. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion, as a treat for yourself, or to share with loved ones, these rolls are sure to impress. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, these Lemon Rolls will quickly become a favorite in your baking collection. Enjoy the refreshing, lemony goodness of these delicious rolls!