The Best Lemon Sweet Rolls Recipe for a Bright, Fluffy Treat

Crafting delectable lemon sweet rolls brings pure joy to any kitchen adventure.

Zesty citrus notes dance through soft, pillowy dough creating an irresistible morning treat.

Bakers who love surprising their loved ones will adore this simple yet elegant recipe.

Perfectly balanced sweetness meets tangy brightness in every tender bite.

Delicate layers promise a mouthwatering experience that feels both comforting and exciting.

Fragrant kitchen aromas will draw everyone to the table with anticipation.

You cannot resist these rolls – they’re sure to become your new favorite weekend breakfast delight.

Pairings for Lemon Sweet Rolls

• Pair these lemon sweet rolls with a chilled lavender lemonade for a refreshing and complementary citrus experience that enhances the bright lemon notes in the pastry.
• Serve alongside a smooth vanilla latte or cappuccino, which balances the sweet-tangy rolls with rich, creamy undertones and provides a delightful morning or afternoon treat.
• Choose a light chamomile or Earl Grey tea to complement the rolls' delicate lemon flavor, creating a soothing and elegant breakfast or dessert pairing that highlights the pastry's subtle sweetness.

Storing Lemon Sweet Rolls

• Store cooled lemon sweet rolls in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Wrap individually in plastic wrap to maintain moisture and prevent drying out.
• Place rolls in a freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Warm in microwave for 15-20 seconds or in oven at 150C (300F) for 5-7 minutes until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent over-browning.
• Transfer from freezer to refrigerator overnight. Warm in oven at 150C (300F) for 10 minutes, then add glaze just before serving for best flavor and texture.

FAQs

• What makes the lemon sweet rolls unique?

The combination of tangy lemon zest in the filling and glaze creates a bright, refreshing twist on classic sweet rolls, offering a citrusy burst of flavor.

• Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and assemble the rolls the night before. Cover and refrigerate overnight, then let them come to room temperature and rise before baking.

• How do I know when the dough has risen properly?

The dough should roughly double in size and feel soft and puffy when gently pressed. In a warm environment, this typically takes 1-1.5 hours.

• Do I need any special equipment to make these rolls?

You’ll need a mixing bowl, rolling pin, baking dish, and basic measuring tools. A stand mixer can help with kneading, but it’s not essential.

Why Lemon Sweet Rolls Are So Appealing

• Burst with Bright Flavors: Discover a zesty twist on classic sweet rolls that dance with tangy lemon notes, making every bite a refreshing culinary adventure.
• Master Baking with Ease: Perfect for bakers of all skill levels, this recipe guides you through simple steps that guarantee delicious results without complex techniques.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food: Ideal for family breakfasts, brunch gatherings, or surprising loved ones with a homemade treat that brings smiles and warmth to the table.
• Versatile Seasonal Delight: Adaptable for spring brunches, summer picnics, or a cozy weekend morning, these rolls brighten any occasion with their sunny lemon charm.

Ingredients for Lemon Sweet Rolls

• Warm Milk: A liquid that helps activate the yeast and provides moisture for the dough.
• Sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a touch of sweetness to the dough.
• Active Dry Yeast: A key ingredient that helps the dough rise and creates a light, fluffy texture.

• All-Purpose Flour: The main structural component that gives the rolls their shape and texture.
• Melted Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the dough.
• Egg: Provides structure and helps bind the ingredients together.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the rolls.

• Granulated Sugar, Lemon Zest: A zesty mixture that creates a bright, citrusy flavor profile for the rolls.
• Softened Butter: Helps spread the filling evenly and adds moisture to the rolls.
• Powdered Sugar, Lemon Juice, Lemon Zest: Ingredients that combine to make a tangy, sweet glaze for topping the rolls.
• Milk: Helps adjust the consistency of the glaze if needed.

How to Bake Lemon Sweet Rolls

Step 1: Activate Yeast and Create Dough Base

Grab a large mixing bowl and combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let the mixture rest for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly.

Next, add melted butter, a beaten egg, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything thoroughly.

Gradually incorporate flour into the mixture, kneading until you have a soft, smooth dough that feels elastic and springy. Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and allow it to rise in a warm spot for 1-1.5 hours until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Craft Zesty Lemon Filling

In a small bowl, blend sugar with freshly grated lemon zest, creating a fragrant and tangy mixture.

Roll out the risen dough into a rectangular shape approximately 35×25 centimeters. Gently spread softened butter across the entire surface of the dough, ensuring an even coating.

Sprinkle the lemon-sugar mixture generously over the buttered surface.

Step 3: Shape and Prepare Rolls

Carefully roll the dough tightly from the long side, creating a compact log.

Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 12 equal-sized pieces. Arrange these rolls in a greased 23-centimeter baking dish, leaving a little space between each roll.

Cover the dish and let the rolls rise for an additional 30 minutes.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit).

Place the risen rolls in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, watching for a beautiful golden-brown color that signals they’re perfectly done.

Step 5: Create Luscious Lemon Glaze

While the rolls are cooling, whip up a delectable glaze.

• Powdered sugar
• Fresh lemon juice
• Lemon zest

Stir until the mixture becomes smooth and glossy. If the glaze seems too thick, add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.

Once the rolls have cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze generously over the top, allowing it to cascade down the sides.

Tips for Perfect Lemon Sweet Rolls

• Ensure milk is warm (not hot) to help yeast bloom without killing it, creating a fluffy texture.
• Add flour gradually while kneading to prevent dense rolls, stopping when dough becomes soft and slightly tacky.
• Use fresh lemon zest for intense citrus notes, grating only the bright yellow part to avoid bitter white pith.
• Use a ruler when stretching dough to maintain even thickness, helping rolls bake uniformly and look professionally made.
• Let rolls cool slightly before adding glaze so it doesn't melt completely, creating a beautiful drizzled appearance.

Variations for Lemon Sweet Rolls

• Lime Zesty Rolls: Replace lemon zest with lime zest for a tropical citrus flavor that brings a bright, tangy twist to the classic sweet rolls.
• Gluten-Free Citrus Rolls: Swap regular flour with a gluten-free blend and add xanthan gum to maintain the soft, tender texture of the rolls.
• Orange Sunshine Rolls: Use orange zest instead of lemon zest, creating a sweeter, more mellow citrus profile that's perfect for breakfast or brunch.
• Dairy-Free Lemon Rolls: Substitute milk with almond milk, use coconut oil instead of butter, and follow the original recipe for a plant-based version of these zesty rolls.

Lemon Sweet Rolls Recipe

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4.7 from 31 reviews

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Zesty lemon sweet rolls elevate breakfast with Mediterranean sunshine and pillowy pastry perfection. Each tender bite delivers tangy citrus comfort that will delight you with refreshing morning magic.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 400g (3 1/4 cups) all-purpose flour
• 240 milliliters (1 cup) warm milk
• 60 grams (1/4 cup) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg

Sweeteners and Flavoring:

• 50 grams (1/4 cup) granulated sugar (for dough)
• 100 grams (1/2 cup) granulated sugar (for filling)
• 120 grams (1 cup) powdered sugar (for glaze)
• 2 tablespoons lemon zest (for filling)
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (for glaze)

Binding and Leavening Agents:

• 7 grams (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 60 grams (1/4 cup) unsalted butter, softened (for filling)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (for glaze)
• 1 tablespoon milk (optional, for glaze)

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Instructions

1. Activate yeast by dissolving it in tepid milk with a touch of sugar, allowing the mixture to become frothy and aromatic for approximately 5 minutes.
2. Incorporate melted butter, a whisked egg, and a pinch of salt into the activated yeast mixture, creating a uniform base for the dough.
3. Gradually fold in flour, kneading the mixture until a smooth, elastic dough develops with a consistent texture.
4. Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled container, envelop with a clean cloth, and permit fermentation in a warm environment for 60-90 minutes until the volume doubles.
5. Craft a fragrant lemon-sugar blend by thoroughly combining granulated sugar with finely grated lemon zest.
6. Gently roll the risen dough into a rectangular shape, approximately 35x25cm, ensuring an even surface.
7. Delicately spread softened butter across the dough’s expanse, then generously sprinkle the lemon-sugar mixture for maximum flavor infusion.
8. Carefully roll the dough from the elongated side, creating a tight cylindrical shape, then slice into 12 uniform segments.
9. Arrange the rolled portions in a prepared baking vessel, allowing them to proof for an additional 30 minutes.
10. Heat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes until they achieve a golden, enticing appearance.
11. Whisk powdered sugar with fresh lemon juice and additional zest, creating a smooth, tangy glaze.
12. Once cooled slightly, drizzle the vibrant glaze over the warm rolls, enhancing their citrusy appeal.

Notes

• Ensure milk is warm but not hot to activate yeast correctly without killing it.
• Use fresh lemon zest for maximum flavor intensity and bright citrusy notes.
• Knead dough until smooth and elastic to develop proper gluten structure for soft rolls.
• Allow sufficient rising time in a warm, draft-free area to achieve optimal volume and texture.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 217 kcal
• Sugar: 18 g
• Sodium: 115 mg
• Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 33 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 27 mg