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Lemon Rolls

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Lemon Rolls are a bright, citrusy twist on classic cinnamon rolls, featuring soft, fluffy dough swirled with a sweet lemon filling and topped with a tangy lemon glaze. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.

  • Author: Ella
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 12 rolls
  • Category: Breakfast, Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/4 tsp instant yeast
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup warm milk
  • 1/4 cup butter, softened
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup butter, softened (for filling)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for filling)
  • 2 tbsp lemon zest (for filling)
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice (for filling)
  • 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice (for glaze)
  • 1–2 tbsp milk or cream (optional, for glaze consistency)
  • 1 tsp lemon zest (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast in a bowl. Let sit until foamy, about 5–10 minutes.
  2. Add egg, softened butter, vanilla, salt, and gradually mix in flour to form a soft dough.
  3. Knead the dough for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
  5. In a separate bowl, prepare the lemon filling by mixing softened butter, sugar, lemon zest, and juice into a smooth paste.
  6. Roll the risen dough into a large rectangle and spread the lemon filling evenly.
  7. Roll up tightly from the long edge and slice into 12 even rolls.
  8. Place rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and let rise for 30–40 minutes.
  9. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
  10. While slightly cooling, whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and milk to make glaze.
  11. Drizzle glaze over warm rolls and top with lemon zest if desired.

Notes

  • Add cream cheese to glaze for richness.
  • Mix poppy seeds into filling for texture.
  • Try orange or lime zest for a citrus variation.
  • Layer in fresh raspberries for a fruity twist.
  • Store at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4.
  • Reheat in microwave for 10–15 seconds or in a low oven.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://elladishes.com/lemon-rolls/