Introduction to Lemon Sweet Rolls
Welcome to my kitchen, where I think every day deserves a little bit of sweetness! Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Lemon Sweet Rolls, a delightful treat that will brighten your mornings. With their soft, fluffy texture and the zing of fresh lemon, these rolls are a quick solution for busy days when you want something comforting yet impressive. Whether you’re hosting breakfast for friends or just need a little pick-me-up during the week, these sweet rolls are here to elevate your mood and tease your taste buds!
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Sweet Rolls
You’re going to fall in love with these Lemon Sweet Rolls for so many reasons! First, they are surprisingly easy to make, perfect for those busy mornings when time is tight. The fresh, tangy lemon flavor dances on your taste buds, making them utterly irresistible. Plus, the warm, gooey glaze makes every bite feel like a little celebration. Honestly, who wouldn’t want a zesty treat like this warming up their day?
Ingredients for Lemon Sweet Rolls
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward creating your very own Lemon Sweet Rolls. Here’s what you’ll need:
- All-purpose flour: This is the backbone of your dough, providing structure and texture.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the rolls and helps them caramelize for that beautiful golden crust.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors, making each bite more delicious.
- Active dry yeast: The magic ingredient that helps your dough rise and gives those rolls their airy texture.
- Warm milk: Activates the yeast and helps create a soft, tender dough. Remember, it should be warm but not hot!
- Unsalted butter: Both melted and for the glaze, it adds richness and flavor to the rolls.
- Large eggs: They add moisture and create a lovely richness while also helping bind the dough together.
- Lemon zest: This is where the magic happens! It adds a vibrant, zesty flavor that elevates your rolls.
- Fresh lemon juice: Enhances the lemon flavor, giving your rolls that delightful tang.
- Heavy cream: This is for the glaze, making it rich and indulgent.
- Powdered sugar: It provides the sweet touch for the glaze, giving it that beautiful, silky finish.
- Vanilla extract: A splash adds depth to the glaze, creating a balanced flavor profile.
- Optional cinnamon: Sprinkling a bit on the filling adds warmth and cozy flavor to your rolls.
If you’re curious about exact measurements, they’re conveniently located at the bottom of the article and available for printing. Happy baking!
How to Make Lemon Sweet Rolls
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making your Lemon Sweet Rolls! This process may seem like a whirlwind, but I promise, it’s easier than it looks. Be sure to enjoy the joy of baking as you go!
Prepare the Dough
Start by combining all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt in a large mixing bowl. The aroma will get you excited, trust me!
Next, sprinkle the active dry yeast over the mixture and give it a good stir. Now, in a separate bowl, warm up the milk until it feels pleasantly warm—remember, no hot milk! Pour it into the dry mix. Stir until everything is beginning to come together. Then, add melted unsalted butter, eggs, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice. Mix until a soft dough starts to form.
Time to get your hands dirty! Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes, on a lightly floured surface or right in the bowl, until it’s smooth and elastic. The dough should bounce back when you poke it, like a happy little trampoline!
Let It Rise
This next step is crucial for achieving those fluffy rolls you’re craving. Cover your dough with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Set it in a warm spot to rise for about an hour until it doubles in size. It’s like giving your dough a little sunbathe!
Shape and Fill the Rolls
Once your dough has risen, give it a gentle punch to release those air bubbles. This helps keep the texture of the rolls just right.
Flour a clean surface and roll the dough out into a rectangle about 12 inches by 18 inches. Now, spread the melted butter across the dough; this step is drippy and exciting! Grab some sugar (and cinnamon if you’re feeling adventurous), sprinkling it over the buttered surface. Use your hands to gently press it in, ensuring every bite will be sweet and heavenly.
Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Slice the log into about 1-inch wide pieces and place these in a greased baking dish, close together but not squished!
Second Rise
Cover those lovely rolls with a kitchen towel and let them rise again for about 30 minutes. This second rise is key for creating those light, airy rolls which practically melt in your mouth.
Bake the Rolls
While your rolls puff up like little clouds, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once they’ve risen, pop the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want that gorgeous golden color on top, signaling they’re ready!
Glaze the Rolls
While the rolls cool for about 10 minutes after baking, whip up the glaze! In a small bowl, whisk together heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. It should be delightful and pourable!
Now, drizzle this luscious glaze over the warm rolls, ensuring each one gets a lovely coating. For an extra touch, melt a bit more unsalted butter and drizzle it on top; it brings a rich finish that will have everyone begging for seconds!
Tips for Success
- Remember to keep your milk warm, not hot, to protect the yeast.
- Knead until smooth for the fluffiest rolls. It’s a workout worth every minute!
- Let the dough rise in a cozy, warm spot—think of it as a spa day for your dough!
- Roll tightly for even baking and perfect-shaped rolls.
- Experiment with different glazes or toppings for a unique twist!
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl: Any large bowl will do, even a soup pot if you’re in a pinch!
- Rolling pin: A wine bottle works perfectly if you don’t have one.
- Baking dish: Any oven-safe dish—even a skillet—will work for baking.
- Measuring cups: If you don’t have these, a coffee mug can stand in!
- Whisk: A fork can do the trick for mixing your glaze.
Variations
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version of these delicious rolls.
- Lemon Poppy Seed: Add 2 tablespoons of poppy seeds into the dough for a delightful crunch and flavor contrast.
- Berry Infusion: Toss in some fresh or frozen blueberries or raspberries into the filling for a fruity twist that complements the lemon.
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based milk, coconut oil instead of butter, and flax eggs as a substitute for the eggs.
- Citrus Medley: Mix lemon with zest and juice from oranges or limes to add a multi-citrus flavor profile to your rolls.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair warm Lemon Sweet Rolls with a steaming cup of chamomile tea for a relaxing indulgence.
- Serve alongside fresh fruit salad, adding a refreshing contrast to the sweet rolls.
- For a delightful brunch, plate them with whipped cream and a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
- Dress your serving plate with lemon slices and mint leaves for a beautiful, inviting presentation.
- Don’t forget to offer a side of creamy butter for those who love extra richness!
FAQs about Lemon Sweet Rolls
Can I make Lemon Sweet Rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and shape the rolls, then cover and refrigerate them overnight before the second rise. In the morning, simply let them warm up for about 30 minutes before baking.
Can I freeze Lemon Sweet Rolls?
Yes, you can freeze baked Lemon Sweet Rolls! After glazing, let them cool completely, then wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for about three months!
What can I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
This can be a bummer, but don’t worry! Ensure your yeast is fresh and your milk is warm—not hot. If your kitchen is cool, consider placing the dough in a slightly warmed oven (turn it off first!) to create a warmer environment.
Can I substitute ingredients in the glaze?
Definitely! You can swap heavy cream with milk or even a dairy-free alternative for a lighter glaze. Just be aware that the consistency might change a bit, but the flavor will still shine through!
How do I store leftover Lemon Sweet Rolls?
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or in the refrigerator for about a week. Just pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy that freshly baked feel again!
Final Thoughts
Making Lemon Sweet Rolls is more than just baking; it’s about creating moments filled with warmth and joy. The soft, fluffy rolls bursting with tangy lemon flavor have a way of brightening even the most hectic days. As you indulge in each sugary bite, it’s easy to feel a sense of accomplishment and happiness. Sharing these delightful treats with family and friends can turn an ordinary gathering into a cherished memory. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and dive into this delicious experience—because every day deserves a little sweetness!
Print
Lemon Sweet Rolls
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Lemon Sweet Rolls are a delightful treat that combines the tangy flavor of lemon with a soft, sweet dough, finished with a creamy glaze.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for glaze)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt.
- Sprinkle 1 packet of active dry yeast over the dry ingredients and stir to combine.
- In a separate bowl, warm 1/2 cup of milk until it is just warm to the touch, not hot.
- Pour the warm milk into the dry ingredients mixture and stir to combine.
- Add 1/4 cup of melted unsalted butter, 2 large eggs, 1 tablespoon of lemon zest, and 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice into the bowl.
- Stir the ingredients together until a dough begins to form.
- Knead the dough in the bowl or on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
- Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and place it in a warm spot to rise for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
- After the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles.
- Lightly flour a clean surface and roll the dough out into a rectangle, about 12 inches by 18 inches in size.
- Spread 1/4 cup of melted unsalted butter over the dough, ensuring even coverage.
- Sprinkle sugar and cinnamon (if desired) over the buttered dough, and gently press it in with your hands.
- Roll the dough tightly into a log, starting from one long edge and rolling toward the other.
- Slice the rolled dough into 1-inch wide pieces and place them in a greased baking dish, ensuring they are close together.
- Cover the rolls with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes, until they puff up.
- While the rolls rise, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Once the rolls have risen, place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown on top.
- Prepare the glaze by whisking together 1/4 cup of heavy cream, 1 cup of powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract in a small bowl.
- Once the rolls are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for about 10 minutes.
- Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls, making sure each one is generously coated.
- Melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a small bowl and drizzle it over the rolls for an extra rich finish.
- Serve the lemon sweet rolls warm and enjoy their tangy, sweet, and buttery flavor.
Notes
- Ensure the milk is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
- Knead the dough until smooth and elastic for the best texture.
- Let the dough rise in a warm place for optimal yeast activity.
- Roll the dough tightly to ensure evenly shaped rolls.
- For a richer flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon to the filling.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
