If you’ve ever wanted to capture the bright, sunny essence of a lemon grove baked into warm, fluffy bread, this Lemon Sweet Rolls Recipe is your dream come true. These rolls are tender and soft with a beautiful citrus zing that makes every bite feel like a little celebration. The perfect balance between sweet and tart, these rolls transform the simple joy of baking into a vibrant treat you’ll be so proud to share with family and friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Lemon Sweet Rolls Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that each play a vital role. From the yeast that helps the dough rise to fluffy perfection, to the fresh lemon zest that infuses it with irresistible citrus notes, every item adds depth and character to your rolls.
- Active dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons): This helps your rolls rise light and airy, creating that perfect soft texture.
- Warm milk, ½ cup (110°F/45°C): The ideal temperature activates the yeast without killing it.
- Granulated sugar, ¼ cup: Adds sweetness and helps the yeast feed, assisting in the rising process.
- Unsalted butter, ¼ cup melted: Brings richness and tenderness to the dough.
- Lemon zest, 2 teaspoons: Gives a fresh, citrus burst that’s the star flavor of the recipe.
- Vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon: Adds a hint of warmth and depth to complement the lemon.
- Lemon extract, 1 teaspoon (optional): Amplifies the lemon flavor if you want it extra bright.
- Large eggs, 2: Provide structure and moisture, enriching the dough.
- All-purpose flour, 3 ½ cups: The base that forms the dough’s structure.
- Salt, ½ teaspoon: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
- Powdered sugar, ¾ cup (for icing): For creating a sweet, smooth glaze.
- Fresh lemon juice, 2 tablespoons (for icing): Adds tang and brightness to the glaze.
- Lemon zest, 1 tablespoon (for icing): Gives extra zest and sparkle to the final touch.
How to Make Lemon Sweet Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Activate the yeast
Start by waking up your yeast in warm milk mixed with sugar. This simple step ensures your dough will rise beautifully, setting the foundation for those soft, fluffy rolls full of flavor.
Step 2: Mix the wet ingredients
Combine melted butter, lemon zest, vanilla extract, optional lemon extract, and eggs in a large bowl. Then, add the bubbly yeast mixture and stir everything together until well incorporated. This blend is what infuses your dough with rich, citrusy goodness.
Step 3: Form the dough
Gradually add flour and salt to your wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms. Then knead it by hand for 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic. This kneading develops the gluten, contributing to the perfect chewy bite that makes these rolls so irresistible.
Step 4: First rise
Place your kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it up, and let it rest in a warm spot. This rise takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, during which the dough doubles in size, becoming light and airy, brimming with lemon scent.
Step 5: Shape the rolls
After punching down the dough, roll it out into a 12 by 18-inch rectangle. Spread softened butter over the surface, then sprinkle sugar and additional lemon zest evenly on top. Roll it tightly from the long side and slice it into 12 even rolls, arranging them snugly in a greased baking dish.
Step 6: Second rise and bake
Cover the rolls and let them rise again for 30 minutes, which gives them that final lift. Then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Your kitchen will quickly fill with a tantalizing lemon-sweet aroma.
Step 7: Finish with glaze
While the rolls bake, mix powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest to create a luscious glaze. Drizzle this over the warm rolls for a shiny, sweet, and tangy finish that perfectly complements the soft dough beneath.
How to Serve Lemon Sweet Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra pop of color and flavor, sprinkle a little extra lemon zest or finely chopped candied lemon peel on top after glazing. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also add a delicate snow-like finish that looks as delightful as it tastes.
Side Dishes
These rolls are fantastic alongside a cup of hot tea or freshly brewed coffee for breakfast or brunch. For something heartier, serve them with a fresh fruit salad or creamy yogurt to balance the sweet and tangy notes.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging the rolls in a circular pattern on a pretty platter and garnish with edible flowers or fresh mint leaves for an eye-catching centerpiece. You can also serve them warm in individual ramekins, letting the glaze drip down the sides for an indulgent touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover Lemon Sweet Rolls Recipe tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container. They stay fresh at room temperature for up to two days, great for snacking or a quick breakfast the next morning.
Freezing
If you want to save them longer, place the rolls in a freezer-safe container or bag. They freeze beautifully for up to two months. Just make sure they are fully cooled before freezing to maintain their soft texture.
Reheating
To enjoy frozen or leftover rolls, warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes, or microwave them for 20 seconds wrapped in a damp paper towel. This will restore their fresh-baked softness and enhance the lemon-infused aroma with every bite.
FAQs
Can I use lemon extract instead of lemon zest?
While lemon extract can add strong lemon flavor, the zest provides fresh citrus oils that freshen the taste and add texture. Using zest is recommended, but if you’re short on it, the extract is a convenient substitute.
What’s the best way to get soft, fluffy rolls?
The secret lies in kneading the dough properly and allowing it enough time to rise twice. Also, using warm milk to activate the yeast and not overbaking ensures softness.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
You can try swapping eggs for flax eggs and using plant-based milk and butter alternatives, though the texture will vary slightly. The lemon flavor will still shine through wonderfully.
How do I know when the rolls are done baking?
Look for a beautiful golden brown color on top and slightly pulling away from the sides of the pan. You can also tap the rolls lightly; they should sound hollow and spring back when touched.
Is it okay to prepare the dough the night before?
Absolutely! You can complete the dough, cover it well, and refrigerate overnight. Just allow it to come to room temperature and do the second rise before baking for best results.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly heartwarming about baking Lemon Sweet Rolls Recipe from scratch. With their wonderful citrusy aroma and melt-in-your-mouth texture, these rolls are a fantastic way to brighten your day and impress anyone lucky enough to share them. So go ahead, try this recipe, and let your kitchen fill with the joyful scent of fresh lemons and warm sweetness.
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Lemon Sweet Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these soft and fragrant Lemon Sweet Rolls featuring a tender dough infused with zesty lemon and vanilla, complemented by a tangy lemon glaze. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat any time of day.
Ingredients
Dough
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- ½ cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon extract (optional)
- 2 large eggs
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
Filling
- Softened butter (quantity as needed for spreading)
- Sugar (quantity as needed for sprinkling)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
Glaze
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
Instructions
- Activate yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk, active dry yeast, and granulated sugar. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, lemon zest, vanilla extract, optional lemon extract, and eggs. Add the frothy yeast mixture and mix thoroughly to integrate all wet ingredients.
- Form dough: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the wet mixture. Stir continuously until a cohesive dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic, which helps develop gluten for a tender texture.
- First rise: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours until it doubles in size.
- Shape dough: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Punch down the risen dough gently to release air and roll it out on a floured surface into a 12×18-inch rectangle, preparing it for filling and shaping.
- Add filling: Spread softened butter evenly over the surface of the rolled dough. Sprinkle sugar and 1 tablespoon lemon zest generously over the butter to create the sweet and citrusy filling layer.
- Form rolls: Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a cylinder. Slice the roll into 12 even pieces. Arrange the rolls cut-side up in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, cover them, and let them rise for an additional 30 minutes to puff up.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through.
- Prepare glaze: While the rolls bake, combine powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest in a small bowl. Stir until smooth to form a tangy, sweet glaze.
- Glaze and serve: Remove the baked rolls from the oven, drizzle the prepared lemon glaze generously over the warm rolls, and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure milk is warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast.
- Use fresh lemon zest for the brightest citrus flavor.
- For a sweeter filling, increase sugar to taste when sprinkling on the dough.
- Optional lemon extract enhances the lemon flavor but is not required.
- Roll dough tightly to avoid rolls unraveling during baking.
- Serve warm for the best taste and soft texture.
