Description
These fluffy lemon rolls are filled with bright citrusy goodness and topped with a sweet-tart lemon glaze — the perfect brunch treat or morning bake.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
3½ cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast
¼ cup granulated sugar
½ tsp salt
¾ cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg
For the Lemon Filling:
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
Zest of 2 lemons
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
For the Lemon Glaze:
1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Activate Yeast: Combine warm milk and yeast in a large bowl. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Mix Dough: Stir in sugar, melted butter, egg, and salt. Gradually mix in flour until a soft dough forms.
Knead Dough: Knead by hand for 8–10 minutes or with a dough hook for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
First Rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1½ hours or until doubled.
Make Filling: Mix softened butter, sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice in a bowl until smooth.
Shape Rolls: Roll dough into a 12×18-inch rectangle. Spread lemon filling evenly. Roll from long edge and slice into 12 rolls.
Second Rise: Place rolls in a greased 9×13-inch pan. Cover and let rise for 30–45 minutes.
Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 22–26 minutes until golden and set.
Glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle over warm rolls and garnish with lemon zest if desired.
Notes
Add fresh berries to filling for a fruity twist.
Swap glaze with lemon cream cheese glaze for extra richness.
Use orange zest/juice for a citrus variation.
Slice smaller rolls (16) for mini bites.
Assemble the night before and bake fresh in the morning.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
- Method: Baked, Yeast-Risen
- Cuisine: American