Description
These Lemon Rolls are soft, fluffy, and bursting with bright citrus flavor. Made with a tender yeast dough and swirled with a sweet-tangy lemon filling, they are topped with a creamy lemon glaze for the perfect balance of sweet and tart. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these rolls are a delightful treat that will brighten any day!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Dough:
- 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp salt
- Zest of 2 lemons
For the Filling:
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
For the Lemon Cream Cheese Glaze:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp milk (optional, for consistency)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Warm the milk to about 110°F and mix with yeast and a pinch of sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, butter, eggs, and lemon zest.
- Knead for 8 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–1.5 hours until doubled in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling & Shape Rolls
- Roll out the dough into a 12×18-inch rectangle.
- Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with sugar. Drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle lemon zest over the top.
- Roll the dough tightly from the long side and slice into 14–16 rolls.
Step 3: Second Rise & Bake
- Arrange rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, cover, and let rise for 30–45 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
Step 4: Make the Glaze & Serve
- Whisk together cream cheese, powdered sugar, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Drizzle over warm rolls and enjoy!
Notes
- Make Ahead: Prepare the dough the night before and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh in the morning.
- Storage: Store at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave.
- Freezing: Freeze unglazed rolls for up to 2 months; warm before glazing.
Nutrition
- Calories: ~320 kcal
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 55mg