Lemon Rolls

These Lemon Rolls are the perfect treat for any occasion! With their soft and fluffy texture, gooey lemon sugar filling, and luscious cream cheese frosting, these rolls are not only delicious but also visually appealing. They’re great for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, making them versatile enough for gatherings like Easter brunch or Mother’s Day celebrations. The refreshing lemon flavor truly sets them apart from traditional sweet rolls.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The bright lemon zest combined with the sweetness creates a delightful contrast that tantalizes your taste buds.
• Fluffy Texture: These rolls are incredibly soft and pillowy, making each bite melt in your mouth.
• Versatile Occasions: Perfect for any time of day—serve them at brunch, as an afternoon snack, or for dessert.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can impress with this recipe.
• Stunning Presentation: Drizzled with creamy lemon frosting, these rolls look as good as they taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin making these Lemon Rolls, gather the essential tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rolling pin
• Baking dish or sheet pan
• Stand mixer (optional)
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine ingredients easily without spills.
• Stand mixer: Using a stand mixer makes it easier to knead the dough until it’s perfectly smooth and elastic.
• Rolling pin: A rolling pin helps you roll out the dough evenly for uniform rolls.

Ingredients

These are the best lemon rolls! They are soft and fluffy lemon rolls with a gooey lemon sugar filling and lemon cream cheese frosting.

Dough Ingredients

• 1 1/4 cups (300 ml) whole milk, warmed to about 110 degrees
• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
• 1 tsp granulated white sugar, to bloom the yeast
• 4 3/4 cups (593 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp (25 g) granulated white sugar
• 2 eggs, whisked
• 1/2 cup (112 g) unsalted butter, very softened
• 1/2 tbsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp (20 g) lemon zest, about 2 lemons zested

Filling Ingredients

• 1/2 cup (112 g) unsalted butter, very softened
• 1/2 cup (110 g) brown sugar
• 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated white sugar
• 2 tbsp (20 g) lemon zest, about 2 lemons zested
• 2 tbsp (30 ml) fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 tsp salt

Topping Ingredients

• 1/4 cup (60 ml) heavy cream, for pouring in between the rolls
• 1/4 cup (56 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 oz (113 g) cream cheese, cold
• 3/4 cup (97 g) powdered sugar
• 1/2 tbsp (5 g) lemon zest, about 1/2 lemon zested
• 1/2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

How to Make Lemon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

• In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk, active dry yeast, and granulated white sugar. Let it sit for about 5–10 minutes until frothy.
• Add in flour, salt, eggs, softened butter, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Mix until combined.
• Knead the dough on a floured surface or use a stand mixer with a dough hook until smooth.

Step 2: First Rise

• Place the dough in a greased bowl. Cover it with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel.
• Let it rise in a warm place for about 1–2 hours or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Make the Filling

• In another bowl, mix softened butter with brown sugar, granulated white sugar, lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and salt until well combined.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

• Once risen, punch down the dough to release air. Roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle shape.
• Spread the filling mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough.

Step 5: Shape and Second Rise

• Carefully roll up the dough tightly from one end to the other. Cut into equal pieces.
• Place rolls in a greased baking dish. Cover again and let them rise for about another hour until puffy.

Step 6: Bake

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 20 minutes or until golden brown on top.

Step 7: Prepare Frosting

• While baking, beat together cold cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice until smooth.

Step 8: Frost and Serve

• Pour heavy cream over baked rolls while still warm. Allow cooling slightly before frosting with cream cheese mixture. Enjoy your delightful Lemon Rolls!

How to Serve Lemon Rolls

Lemon rolls are a delightful treat that can brighten any meal or occasion. Whether for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, there are various ways to enjoy these fluffy delights.

For Breakfast

• Pair with fresh fruit salad – The vibrant flavors of seasonal fruits complement the zesty lemon rolls perfectly.
• Serve alongside yogurt – A dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and balances the sweetness of the rolls.

As a Dessert

• Drizzle with extra lemon glaze – A simple glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice enhances the flavor.
• Top with berries – Fresh strawberries or blueberries add a pop of color and freshness to your dessert plate.

At a Brunch

• Offer with coffee or tea – The citrus notes in lemon rolls pair beautifully with both hot beverages.
• Create a sweet spread – Serve with other pastries, jams, and spreads for a delightful brunch table.

For Special Occasions

• Garnish with mint leaves – A touch of green adds a lovely visual contrast and fresh aroma.
• Present on a tiered cake stand – Elevate your serving style by showcasing the lemon rolls elegantly.

How to Perfect Lemon Rolls

Perfecting lemon rolls takes practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your rolls turn out wonderfully every time.

• Use warm milk – This helps activate the yeast effectively, leading to fluffy rolls.
• Knead thoroughly – Proper kneading develops gluten, giving your rolls that light texture.
• Let dough rise adequately – Allow enough time for the dough to rise until it doubles in size; this is crucial for fluffiness.
• Don’t skip the filling – The gooey lemon sugar filling is what makes these rolls special, so be generous!
• Cool before frosting – Frosting warm rolls can cause the glaze to melt away; wait until they cool slightly for better results.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Rolls

Lemon rolls shine when paired with complementary side dishes. Consider these tasty options that enhance your meal experience.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of apples, oranges, and berries adds brightness to your plate.
2. Greek Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a satisfying contrast in textures.
3. Scrambled Eggs – Fluffy eggs provide protein and balance the sweetness of the lemon rolls.
4. Crispy Bacon – The saltiness of bacon pairs nicely with the sweet citrus flavor of the rolls.
5. Herbed Cream Cheese Spread – A savory spread can offset the sweetness while adding richness.
6. Coffee Cake – Another sweet option that complements brunch without overshadowing the lemon flavors.
7. Pineapple Salsa – This tropical twist brings additional zest and pairs well with the citrus notes of lemon rolls.
8. Iced Tea or Lemonade – Refreshing beverages enhance the overall experience while keeping things light.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making lemon rolls can be a delightful experience, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Not blooming the yeast: Failing to bloom the yeast can lead to dense rolls. Always mix active dry yeast with warm milk and sugar before adding it to the dough.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can hinder dough rise. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better results.
• Overworking the dough: Kneading too much can make the rolls tough. Knead just until smooth and elastic for soft lemon rolls.
• Skipping the resting time: Allowing dough to rest is crucial for development. Don’t rush this step; it helps create fluffy texture.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Using too much flour can lead to dry rolls. Spoon and level flour rather than scooping directly from the bag.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover lemon rolls in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Lemon Rolls

• Wrap lemon rolls tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• Frozen lemon rolls can last up to 2 months.

Reheating Lemon Rolls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
• Microwave: Heat individual rolls for 15-20 seconds on medium power. Add a splash of water for moisture if needed.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through, usually around 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Lemon Rolls?

Lemon rolls are soft, fluffy pastries filled with a gooey lemon sugar mixture and topped with a creamy lemon frosting. They are perfect as breakfast or dessert!

Can I customize my Lemon Rolls?

Yes! You can add poppy seeds, blueberries, or even use different frostings like vanilla or cream cheese variations to make them your own.

How do I know when my Lemon Rolls are done baking?

Lemon rolls should be golden brown on top and spring back when gently pressed. An internal temperature of about 190°F (88°C) indicates they’re done.

How do I store Lemon Rolls?

Store your lemon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate them for up to three days.

Final Thoughts

These lemon rolls are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Their delightful tangy flavor makes them ideal for breakfast, dessert, or even as a special treat during holidays. Feel free to customize them with your favorite flavors or toppings. Try this recipe today and enjoy every fluffy bite!