Lemon Sweet Rolls

These Lemon Sweet Rolls are a delightful treat bursting with bright lemon flavor. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, they offer a sweet twist to traditional rolls. The combination of sweet and tart flavors, along with the buttery texture, makes them irresistible. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply indulging yourself, these rolls will surely impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright Flavor: The fresh lemon zest and juice bring an uplifting taste that energizes your day.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have delicious rolls without complicated techniques.
• Versatile: Suitable for brunches, dessert tables, or cozy evenings at home; these rolls fit any occasion.
• Soft and Fluffy: The use of yeast ensures a light texture that’s perfect for pulling apart and savoring each bite.
• Perfectly Sweet: The balance of sugar in the dough and the creamy frosting creates a delightful sweetness that’s not overpowering.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools to streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet
• Rolling pin
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients effectively while allowing enough space to mix without spills.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial in baking to ensure perfect results every time.
• Baking sheet: Provides the right surface for even baking, helping achieve that desired golden-brown color on your rolls.
• Rolling pin: Useful for rolling out the dough evenly, ensuring that each roll is uniform in size and thickness.

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Ingredients

These Lemon Sweet Rolls are loaded with bright lemon flavor and are a delicious alternative to traditional cinnamon rolls. They’re a delightful treat that combines sweet, tart, and buttery texture and flavor. They’re a perfect breakfast treat or afternoon snack and deceptively simple to make.

For the Dough

• 1 ½ cups whole milk (warmed to 110°F or see notes)
• 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet; see notes for using active dry yeast)
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons lemon zest
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
• 3½ to 4¼ cups bread flour (or all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled)

For the Filling

• Olive oil (or butter for greasing the bowl)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1½ tablespoons lemon zest (packed; about 2 large lemons)
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)

For the Frosting

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for greasing)
• 4 ounces full-fat cream cheese (brick style)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 ¼ cups powdered sugar
• Pinch of salt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
• Lemon slices
• Lemon zest

How to Make Lemon Sweet Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, combine warmed milk with the instant yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
2. Add in the egg, granulated sugar, lemon zest, melted butter, and salt. Mix until combined.
3. Gradually add flour while stirring until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

1. Lightly flour your work surface. Turn out the dough onto it.
2. Knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Place the dough in an oiled bowl. Cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth; let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Shape Rolls

1. After rising, punch down the dough gently. Roll it out into a rectangle about ½ inch thick.
2. Spread softened butter over the surface of the dough followed by granulated sugar mixed with lemon zest.
3. Roll up tightly from one long side to another; pinch the seam closed.

Step 4: Bake Your Rolls

1. Cut rolled dough into equal pieces—about 12 rolls—and place them in a greased baking dish.
2. Cover again and let rise for another hour until doubled in size.
3. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for approximately 28 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 5: Prepare Frosting & Serve

1. Beat cream cheese with softened butter until creamy; gradually add powdered sugar and mix well.
2. Blend in salt and lemon juice until smooth.
3. Once rolls are cooled slightly, spread frosting generously on top, garnish with lemon slices and additional zest if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Lemon Sweet Rolls fresh from the oven!

How to Serve Lemon Sweet Rolls

Lemon Sweet Rolls are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack, these rolls can be served warm or at room temperature. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

Classic Glaze

• Drizzle a simple lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice over the rolls for an extra zing.

Fresh Berries

• Serve alongside fresh strawberries or blueberries to add a burst of color and flavor that complements the lemon.

Whipped Cream

• Top the rolls with dollops of whipped cream for a creamy texture that balances the tartness of the lemon.

Hot Beverage Pairing

• Enjoy with a hot cup of tea or coffee to contrast the sweetness while enhancing the flavors of the rolls.

Lemon Zest Garnish

• Sprinkle additional lemon zest on top before serving for a refreshing aromatic touch that elevates every bite.

Ice Cream Delight

• For a decadent dessert, serve warm Lemon Sweet Rolls with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.

How to Perfect Lemon Sweet Rolls

To ensure your Lemon Sweet Rolls turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Warm Milk: Warm milk (about 110°F) helps activate the yeast better, resulting in fluffier rolls.

• Measure Flour Accurately: Spoon and level your flour to avoid dense rolls; too much flour can lead to dry dough.

• Knead Properly: Knead until smooth and elastic, which usually takes about 10 minutes. This develops gluten for better structure.

• Allow Enough Rising Time: Let the dough rise in a warm place until doubled in size. This can take 1–2 hours depending on conditions.

• Soften Butter: Ensure your butter is softened at room temperature before using it in fillings and frosting for easy incorporation.

• Cool Before Glazing: Allow your rolls to cool slightly before drizzling with glaze so it doesn’t melt away completely.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Sweet Rolls

These Lemon Sweet Rolls pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their brightness and sweetness. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the rolls.

2. Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and berries makes for a nutritious addition that contrasts nicely with the rolls’ richness.

3. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and make for a heartier breakfast option when served alongside.

4. Breakfast Sausage: Turkey or chicken sausage offers savory notes that balance out the sweet flavors of Lemon Sweet Rolls.

5. Granola: A bowl of homemade granola adds crunch and can be served with milk or yogurt as an accompaniment.

6. Chia Seed Pudding: This light yet filling dish brings a creamy texture that complements the soft sweetness of the rolls.

7. Smoothie Bowl: A refreshing smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds creates a colorful and nutritious pairing.

8. Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea enhances the citrus flavor while providing soothing comfort during any meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Lemon Sweet Rolls can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure your rolls turn out perfectly.

• Using cold ingredients: Cold milk or eggs can hinder yeast activation. Ensure your milk is warmed to about 110°F and your egg is at room temperature.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Using too much flour can make your rolls dense. Always spoon and level the flour for accuracy.
• Over-proofing the dough: Allowing the dough to rise too long can lead to a fallen texture. Keep an eye on it and only let it double in size.
• Skipping the lemon zest: This ingredient adds essential flavor. Don’t skip it; use fresh lemons for the best results.
• Neglecting to grease pans properly: Sticking can ruin your rolls. Always grease your baking dish with butter or oil before placing the dough inside.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the Lemon Sweet Rolls in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Lemon Sweet Rolls

• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Lemon Sweet Rolls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat each roll on medium power for 20-30 seconds; watch closely to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place rolls in a pan over low heat with a lid for about 5 minutes, gently warming them through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Lemon Sweet Rolls that might help you along the way.

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast for Lemon Sweet Rolls?

Yes! Just dissolve the active dry yeast in warm milk before combining with other ingredients.

How do I make my Lemon Sweet Rolls more lemony?

Add extra lemon zest or a splash of lemon juice into the filling and glaze for enhanced flavor.

What can I substitute if I don’t have cream cheese?

You can use mascarpone cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative to maintain a similar texture.

How do I store leftover Lemon Sweet Rolls?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Are these rolls suitable for breakfast?

Absolutely! These Lemon Sweet Rolls are perfect as a sweet breakfast treat or afternoon snack.

Final Thoughts

These Lemon Sweet Rolls offer a delightful mix of sweet and citrus flavors that make them irresistible. Their versatility allows you to customize with different fillings or toppings. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and enjoy these tasty rolls with family and friends!

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Lemon Sweet Rolls

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Indulge in the delightful experience of Lemon Sweet Rolls, a treat that combines sweet and tart flavors with a fluffy texture. Bursting with fresh lemon zest and juice, these rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack. The buttery dough rises to fluffy perfection, making each bite irresistibly soft. Topped with a rich cream cheese glaze, they offer a refreshing twist on traditional sweet rolls that will impress your family and friends. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, these Lemon Sweet Rolls will become a favorite in your household.

• Total Time: 58 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 ½ cups whole milk (warmed to 110°F)
• 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet)
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons lemon zest
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
• 3½ to 4¼ cups bread flour (or all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled)
• Olive oil (or butter for greasing the bowl)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1½ tablespoons lemon zest (packed; about 2 large lemons)
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for greasing)
• 4 ounces full-fat cream cheese (brick style)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 ¼ cups powdered sugar
• Pinch of salt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
• Lemon slices
• Lemon zest

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Instructions

1. 1. Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine warmed milk and instant yeast; let sit for 5 minutes until frothy. Add egg, sugar, lemon zest, melted butter, and salt; mix well. Gradually stir in flour until a soft dough forms.
2. 2. Knead the Dough: Lightly flour a surface and knead the dough for 8–10 minutes until smooth. Place in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for about 1 hour until doubled.
3. 3. Shape Rolls: Roll out the dough into a rectangle. Spread softened butter over it and sprinkle with sugar mixed with lemon zest. Roll tightly and slice into equal pieces.
4. 4. Bake: Place rolls in a greased baking dish, allow to rise again for 1 hour, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 28 minutes until golden brown.
5. 5. Prepare Frosting: Beat cream cheese with softened butter; gradually add powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Frost cooled rolls before serving.

• Author: Sophia
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 28 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 roll (75g)
• Calories: 230
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 30mg