Lemon Rolls are the perfect blend of sweet and tart, an explosion of citrusy goodness that dances on your taste buds. Imagine biting into a soft, fluffy roll, filled with a creamy lemon filling that oozes freshness, leaving you craving another bite. sweet breakfast ideas This delightful treat is like sunshine on a plate, brightening even the dullest of days.
I remember the first time I made Lemon Rolls; my kitchen smelled like a lemon grove in full bloom. My family gathered around, eyes wide with anticipation as they watched me pull these golden beauties from the oven. decadent dessert recipes The excitement was palpable, and the rolls vanished within minutes—proof that good things come to those who bake. For more inspiration, check out this chewy oreo cookies recipe recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Lemon Rolls are incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor
- Their zesty aroma fills your kitchen, making everyone eager to dig in
- With their beautiful golden color and inviting glaze, they make for a stunning centerpiece at any gathering
- These rolls are versatile enough for breakfast or dessert, satisfying any sweet tooth at any time of day
One Sunday afternoon, I decided to whip up a batch of Lemon Rolls for brunch. As I rolled out the dough and smeared on the luscious lemon filling, my kids peeked over the counter with curious eyes. delicious brunch options When they finally tasted them, their delighted giggles filled the room—pure joy in every bite!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-purpose Flour: This is your base ingredient. Choose unbleached flour for a more natural flavor and better texture.
- Granulated Sugar: Use fine granulated sugar for sweetness that blends perfectly into the dough and filling.
- Active Dry Yeast: Fresh yeast is key! Check expiration dates; nothing’s worse than flat rolls.
- Whole Milk: Warm milk helps activate the yeast while keeping the dough moist and tender.
- Unsalted Butter: Softened butter adds richness to both the dough and glaze. Go for high-quality butter for best results.
- Lemon Zest: Freshly grated zest enhances flavor immensely; it adds a vibrant aroma that screams “bake me!”
- Lemon Juice: Fresh-squeezed juice brings that tangy punch we all adore; bottled juice just won’t cut it here.
- Powdered Sugar: For drizzling on top—because who doesn’t love a touch of sweetness?
- Eggs: Eggs provide structure and moisture; opt for large eggs for consistent results.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and active dry yeast. Let it sit until frothy—about 5 minutes—like little bubbles dancing at a party! Add melted butter, sugar, egg yolks, lemon zest, and half of your flour (the fun begins!). Mix until smooth before gradually incorporating the remaining flour until a soft dough forms.
Knead Like You Mean It!: Turn your dough out onto a floured surface and knead vigorously for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic—think of it as giving your dough some much-needed therapy! Place it in an oiled bowl and cover with plastic wrap; let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size (approximately 1 hour).
Roll It Out!: Once risen to perfection, turn your dough onto a floured surface again (it’s like giving it another chance!). Roll it out into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Spread softened butter generously across the surface like you’re painting a masterpiece. Then sprinkle sugar mixed with lemon zest evenly over the buttery canvas.
Add Filling & Roll Up!: Starting from one end of the rectangle, roll up tightly into a log shape—you want to be gentle but firm! Pinch seams to seal; slice into 12 equal pieces using dental floss (trust me). savory side dishes Place them cut-side up in greased baking dishes; let them rise again for about 30 minutes—they’ll puff up beautifully!
Bake & Glaze!: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake those lovely rolls for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown and fragrant enough to make neighbors jealous! While they cool slightly, whisk together powdered sugar with fresh lemon juice for that irresistible glaze. Drizzle generously over each roll—the finishing touch that makes all your hard work worth it!
Enjoying Lemon Rolls fresh from the oven offers sheer bliss—softness meets sweetness with zesty brightness that leaves you smiling long after you’ve finished eating! Each bite brings back memories of laughter-filled brunches shared with loved ones—a reminder that food serves as not only nourishment but connection too. For more inspiration, check out this zesty lemon cream cheese delight recipe.
So there you have it: Lemon Rolls that will brighten any occasion or simply lift your spirits when life gets too serious! Grab those ingredients and get ready to create some delicious memories—you won’t regret it!
You Must Know
- Lemon Rolls are a delightful twist on traditional cinnamon rolls, bursting with citrusy flavor
- The aroma of fresh lemons baking fills your kitchen, making it impossible to resist
- These rolls are perfect for brunch or dessert and can easily impress your guests!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
The best way to make Lemon Rolls is to prepare the dough first, allowing it to rise while you mix up the lemon filling. Roll out the dough evenly, ensuring each roll has that delicious filling inside.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your Lemon Rolls by adding poppy seeds for a little crunch or swapping lemon zest with orange zest for a different citrus twist. Drizzling icing on top adds an extra layer of sweetness that everyone loves!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover Lemon Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For reheating, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the perfect Lemon Rolls, ensure your dough rises properly by keeping it in a warm area
- Avoid overworking the dough; this keeps it light and fluffy
- Lastly, let them cool slightly before icing to prevent melting
Reflecting on my first attempt at making Lemon Rolls, I remember my family’s delighted faces as they took their first bites. It felt like sunshine wrapped in dough!
FAQ
Can I use bottled lemon juice for Lemon Rolls?
While bottled lemon juice is convenient, fresh lemons provide a brighter flavor and fragrance that enhances your rolls significantly. Freshly grated zest adds an irresistible aromatic touch.
How long do Lemon Rolls last?
When stored properly in an airtight container, Lemon Rolls can last up to two days at room temperature. You can freeze them for longer storage; just thaw and reheat when ready.
What can I substitute if I don’t have yeast?
If you don’t have yeast handy, consider using baking powder instead. This will create a different texture but still yield delicious rolls! Just remember to adjust the liquid ingredients accordingly.
Lemon Rolls
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12 1x
Description
Lemon Rolls are a delightful treat that perfectly combines sweet and tart flavors, offering a burst of citrusy goodness in every bite. These soft, fluffy rolls are filled with a creamy lemon filling and topped with a tangy glaze, making them an irresistible choice for breakfast or dessert. The aroma of fresh lemons baking fills your kitchen, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Whether you’re hosting brunch or simply treating yourself, these Lemon Rolls are sure to brighten your day!
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
- 1 cup whole milk (warm)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- Zest of 2 lemons
- ½ cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 2 large eggs
Instructions
- Prepare the dough by combining warm milk and yeast in a mixing bowl. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- Add melted butter, sugar, egg yolks, lemon zest, and half of the flour. Mix until smooth.
- Gradually add the remaining flour until a soft dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes.
- Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
- Roll out the risen dough into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Spread softened butter over it and sprinkle with sugar mixed with lemon zest.
- Roll tightly from one end into a log shape and slice into 12 equal pieces. Place cut-side up in greased baking dishes and let rise again for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- While cooling, mix powdered sugar with lemon juice to make the glaze and drizzle over the rolls.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll (85g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 35mg