Lemon Rolls

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brightens up any morning, these Lemon Rolls are just what you need. They’re soft, fluffy, and have that perfect gooey center, all topped with a luscious lemon icing that will make your taste buds dance. This recipe is one of my favorites because it’s easy to whip up and brings a burst of sunshine to your breakfast or brunch table. Whether you’re hosting friends for a weekend gathering or just indulging on a cozy weekday morning, these lemon rolls fit the bill perfectly.

The best part? You can enjoy them any time of year! Their zesty flavor makes them feel like summer, no matter the season. Plus, I promise they’ll disappear faster than you can say “lemon roll.”

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: These lemon rolls come together in just 90 minutes. Perfect for those busy mornings when you want something special without the fuss!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will fall in love with the sweet and tangy flavor. They’re sure to become a family favorite!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep the dough ahead of time and bake them fresh in the morning. Enjoy warm lemon rolls with minimal effort!
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of fresh lemon zest and sweet icing creates an irresistible treat that will brighten anyone’s day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make these delicious lemon rolls. Most of these items are pantry staples, so you might already have them on hand!

For the Dough

• 4 1/4 cups all-purpose flour + additional flour as needed (530g)
• 4 1/2 tsp instant dry yeast (14g, 1/2 oz.)
• 1 Tbsp + 1 tsp poppy seeds – optional
• 1 tsp fine salt (6g)
• 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature (240g)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100g)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature (113g)
• 2 large eggs, room temperature (112g)
• 2 Tbsp fresh lemon zest or the zest of 2 large lemons (6g)

For the Filling and Icing

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100g)
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar (100g)
• 2 Tbsp fresh lemon zest or the zest of 2 large lemons (6g)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (113g)
• 2 cups powdered sugar (250g)
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (60g)
• 2 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted (28g)
• Fresh Lemon Zest

Equipment

You will also need:
* 9 x 13-inch pan
* Parchment paper
* Stand mixer with dough hook or Danish dough whisk
* Ruler
* Dental floss

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible! Feel free to play around with flavors and add your personal touch.

• Add Some Spice: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon for a warm twist on these zesty rolls.
• Fruit Forward: Toss in some blueberries or raspberries for a fruity surprise inside each roll.
• Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the filling for extra texture.
• Cream Cheese Swirl: Spread softened cream cheese over the dough before adding the filling for an indulgent layer.

How to Make Lemon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by mixing your dry ingredients in a bowl. Combine the flour, instant yeast, poppy seeds, and salt. This step is essential because it ensures that your yeast activates properly without being hindered by sugar or salt too early.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, granulated sugar, softened butter, eggs, and fresh lemon zest until smooth. It’s important that everything is at room temperature so it blends easily into a lovely mixture.

Step 3: Mix It All Together

Gradually add your wet ingredients into the dry mixture using a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook or by hand if you prefer. Knead until you have a soft dough that pulls away from the sides of the bowl. If it’s sticky, don’t hesitate to sprinkle in more flour as needed!

Step 4: Let it Rise

Transfer your dough into a lightly greased bowl and cover it with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm spot until it’s doubled in size — about 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it creates those fluffy rolls we all love!

Step 5: Roll Out Your Dough

Once risen, punch down the dough gently and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it out into a rectangle about ½ inch thick. Rolling helps create those lovely layers we want in our lemon rolls.

Step 6: Create Your Filling

Spread softened butter over your rolled-out dough then sprinkle both sugars and lemon zest evenly across its surface. This mixture will melt into sweet gooey goodness while baking.

Step 7: Roll Up & Cut

Starting from one edge, tightly roll up the rectangle into a log shape. Use dental floss to slice into equal pieces — about two inches thick works well! This method keeps them neat without squishing them down.

Step 8: Second Rise

Place your slices into your prepared pan lined with parchment paper and cover again for another rise — about 20 minutes this time.

Step 9: Bake Those Rolls!

Preheat your oven while waiting for them to rise again. Once ready, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 28 minutes until golden brown on top.

Step 10: Whip Up That Icing

While they cool slightly after baking, mix powdered sugar with fresh lemon juice and melted butter until smooth — this icing transforms our rolls from delicious to extraordinary!

Now you’re ready to indulge in these homemade Lemon Rolls! Enjoy every gooey bite!

Pro Tips for Making Lemon Rolls

Making lemon rolls might seem daunting at first, but with a few helpful tips, you’ll be on your way to baking the perfect batch!

• Use fresh lemon zest: Fresh zest enhances the lemon flavor significantly compared to bottled alternatives. It gives your rolls that vibrant, zesty kick that makes them irresistible.
• Let the dough rise in a warm place: Keeping the dough in a warm area allows it to double in size more effectively. A warm oven (turned off) or near a sunny window works wonders for yeast activation.
• Don’t skip the resting time: Allowing the dough to rest before rolling ensures it’s easier to work with and helps develop those fluffy textures. Patience pays off in delicious rolls!
• Use dental floss for cutting: Instead of a knife, use unflavored dental floss to slice your rolled dough. This method creates clean cuts without squishing the rolls, maintaining their lovely shape.
• Store properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate them for a week. You can also freeze them; just make sure to wrap them tightly!

How to Serve Lemon Rolls

Presenting your lemon rolls beautifully can make all the difference! Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game and impress your guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh mint leaves: A sprinkle of fresh mint adds a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the rolls.
• Additional lemon zest: A sprinkle of extra zest on top just before serving brightens both presentation and flavor.
• Powdered sugar dusting: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds sweetness and a touch of elegance to your rolls.

Side Dishes

• Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits balances the richness of the rolls while adding freshness. Consider berries, melons, and citrus!
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a creamy side that complements the tanginess of lemon rolls perfectly.
• Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and make for a hearty breakfast alongside your sweet lemon rolls.
• Coffee or Herbal Tea: A warm beverage completes the meal experience. The citrus notes in tea or coffee pair wonderfully with the bright flavors of lemon.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy your delightful lemon rolls! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These lemon rolls are perfect for meal prep! You can make them in advance and enjoy them throughout the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delightful lemon rolls.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the lemon rolls to cool completely.
• Transfer them to an airtight container or cover with plastic wrap.
• Store at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Cool the lemon rolls completely before freezing.
• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Remember to label the date!

Reheating

• For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the rolls on a baking sheet and cover with aluminum foil.
• Heat for about 10–15 minutes until warm. You can also microwave individual rolls for about 20-30 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making lemon rolls that might help you out!

Can I use regular yeast instead of instant yeast for Lemon Rolls?

Yes, you can use regular yeast, but you’ll need to activate it first by dissolving it in warm milk with a bit of sugar before adding it to your dough ingredients.

What makes these Lemon Rolls so special?

These Lemon Rolls are special because they’re incredibly soft and fluffy, bursting with fresh lemon flavor, and topped with a deliciously gooey icing. They make for a refreshing twist on traditional cinnamon rolls!

How do I get my Lemon Rolls extra fluffy?

To ensure your Lemon Rolls are extra fluffy, make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature, particularly the butter and eggs. Also, be gentle when rolling out your dough; overworking it can lead to denser rolls.

Can I add more lemon zest to enhance the flavor of my Lemon Rolls?

Absolutely! Feel free to add more lemon zest if you want an even stronger citrus flavor. Just keep in mind that too much zest may affect the texture slightly.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Lemon Rolls as much as I do! They’re soft, sweet, and bursting with bright lemon flavor—perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing them with loved ones, these rolls are sure to bring smiles all around. Happy baking!