Lemon Rolls have a way of brightening any day, don’t they? Imagine biting into a soft, fluffy roll bursting with zesty lemon flavor that dances on your palate. The aroma of freshly baked rolls fills the kitchen, tempting everyone to gather around and indulge in this delightful treat. Whether it’s a family brunch or just a cozy afternoon at home, these rolls are sure to steal the show and bring smiles all around. For more inspiration, check out this Lemon cheesecake squares recipe.

The first time I made Lemon Rolls was during a particularly dreary winter day. I was desperate for sunshine in my life and thought, “What better way to bring the rays indoors than with a batch of these zesty delights?” As soon as they came out of the oven, my family gathered like moths to a flame, and the joyous reactions made every effort worth it. perfect for a festive meal These lovely rolls are perfect for any occasion, whether you want to impress guests or simply treat yourself to something special.

I distinctly remember my cousin’s face lighting up when she took her first bite of my Lemon Rolls; pure bliss!

this recipe

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• All-Purpose Flour: A good quality flour is key for achieving that fluffy texture in your rolls.

• Active Dry Yeast: Ensure your yeast is fresh for optimal rise; it’s essential for soft rolls.

• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the dough and enhances the overall flavor profile; don’t skimp on this.

• Milk: Use warm milk to activate the yeast; it’s like giving your dough a cozy blanket.

• Butter: Melted butter adds richness; I prefer unsalted so I can control the saltiness.

• Lemon Zest: Freshly grated zest packs in intense citrus flavor; don’t skip this step!

• Lemon Juice: Fresh-squeezed juice gives the rolls an irresistible tangy sweetness.

• Eggs: They enrich the dough and help bind all ingredients together for that perfect roll consistency.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Activate the Yeast: Start by warming 1 cup of milk until it’s comfortably warm—think baby bottle warm not hot tub! Sprinkle in the active dry yeast along with a pinch of sugar. autumn-inspired comfort food Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.

Create the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour, remaining sugar, lemon zest, and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in your activated yeast mixture along with melted butter and beaten eggs. Mix until combined.

Knead Away: Turn out your dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Feel free to channel your inner bread-making ninja during this step!

First Rise: Place your dough into a greased bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size—this usually takes about 1 hour if you’re lucky enough to have warmth nearby.

Shape the Rolls: Once risen, punch down your dough (take out those frustrations) and roll it out into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Spread melted butter generously over top before sprinkling sugar and more lemon zest.

Curl Them Up: Roll up your rectangle tightly from one end to another. Slice into even pieces—about 1 inch wide—and place these beauties cut side up in a greased baking dish. a sweet side dish option.

Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Let those rolls rise again for about 30 minutes while you preheat the oven—this final rise makes them extra fluffy! Bake them for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown on top.

Now that you’ve made some delightful Lemon Rolls that will brighten anyone’s day, feel free to enjoy them warm or drizzle them with a simple lemon glaze made from powdered sugar mixed with fresh lemon juice for an extra zing! Enjoy each delicious bite knowing you’ve created something truly special! delicious main course pairing.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preparing the dough, allowing it to rise while you mix the lemon filling. Roll out the dough, spread the filling, then roll up and slice before baking for a fluffy texture.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap regular sugar for coconut sugar for a different sweetness or add poppy seeds for crunch. You can also glaze with a simple lemon glaze for extra sweetness.

Storing & Reheating

Store 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 to refresh their softness.

I remember the first time I made Lemon Rolls for brunch. My friend took one bite and declared it was like sunshine on a plate! That moment solidified my love for baking. For more inspiration, check out this Lemon lavender cookies recipe.

FAQ

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

Using fresh lemon juice gives better flavor and brightness, but bottled works in a pinch.

How can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Prepare the rolls up to slicing, cover, and refrigerate overnight before baking them fresh.

What’s the best way to serve Lemon Rolls?

Serve warm with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of lemon glaze for extra flair.

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Lemon Rolls

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• Author: Hellen
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Makes approximately 12 rolls 1x

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Description

Lemon Rolls are a delightful treat that bring a burst of sunshine to any occasion. These soft, fluffy rolls are infused with zesty lemon flavor and topped with a sweet glaze, making them perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Easy to make and visually stunning, they are sure to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy the aroma of freshly baked rolls filling your kitchen while you indulge in this deliciously tangy delight.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
• ½ cup granulated sugar (divided)
• ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 2 large eggs (beaten)
• Zest of 2 lemons
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
• Pinch of salt

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Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast: Warm milk and sprinkle yeast with a pinch of sugar. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Create the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine flour, half the sugar, lemon zest, and salt. Pour in activated yeast mixture, melted butter, and beaten eggs. Mix until combined.
3. Knead: Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth.
4. First Rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1 hour).
5. Shape Rolls: Roll out dough into a rectangle. Spread melted butter, sprinkle with remaining sugar and lemon zest. Roll tightly and slice into pieces.
6. Second Rise & Bake: Place slices cut side up in a greased baking dish. Allow to rise for another 30 minutes while preheating oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 roll (60g)
• Calories: 207
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 97mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 31mg