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Lemon Sweet Rolls

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Lemon sweet rolls made with soft homemade dough, filled with bright lemon curd, and topped with a smooth vanilla glaze. These fluffy citrus rolls are perfect for brunch, spring gatherings, or weekend baking.

  • Author: Ella
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Category: Breakfast / Brunch
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Dough

⅔ cup (163 g) whole milk, warmed to 100–110°F

5 tablespoons granulated sugar, divided

1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast

2 large eggs, room temperature

3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour

½ cup (1 stick / 113 g) unsalted butter, room temperature, cut into pieces

1 teaspoon kosher salt

Filling

¾ cup (240 g) lemon curd

Glaze

1 cup (125 g) confectioners’ sugar

23 tablespoons whole milk

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast

In a medium bowl, combine warm milk and 1 tablespoon sugar. Sprinkle yeast over the milk and whisk lightly. Let sit for about 5 minutes, until foamy.

2. Add Eggs

Whisk eggs into the milk mixture until smooth.

3. Mix the Dough

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine remaining 4 tablespoons sugar, flour, and salt.
Add the milk mixture. With the mixer on low speed, add butter one piece at a time, mixing well between additions.

4. Knead

Knead on medium speed for 1 minute, then increase to medium-high and knead until smooth and elastic, about 5 minutes.

5. First Rise

Transfer dough to a greased bowl, turning to coat all sides. Cover with plastic wrap.
Let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 to 1½ hours.

6. Roll & Fill

Punch down the dough and turn onto a lightly floured surface. Roll into a 10×15-inch rectangle (about ¼-inch thick).
Spread lemon curd evenly over the surface.

7. Roll & Cut

Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log.
Cut into 12 rolls using a sharp knife.

8. Second Rise

Place rolls cut side up into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise again until doubled, about 45–60 minutes.

9. Bake

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Cool for at least 5 minutes.

10. Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk confectioners’ sugar and milk until smooth.
Drizzle glaze over warm rolls and serve.

Notes

Ensure milk is not too hot to avoid killing the yeast.

For stronger lemon flavor, add 1 teaspoon lemon zest to the glaze.

Rolls can be prepared the night before and refrigerated before the second rise.

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.