There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked rolls wafting through the house, especially when they have a hint of citrusy lemon. These Lusciously Soft Lemon Rolls have become a staple in my home, cherished not only for their light, fluffy texture but also for the way they bring my family together around the table. I remember the first time I made these rolls; it was a chilly Sunday morning, and my kids were still in their pajamas, eagerly waiting for breakfast. As soon as the rolls came out of the oven, we all gathered around, each taking a warm, glazed piece. That simple moment was filled with laughter and stories, a reminder of how food can spark the best family memories.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: You probably have most of these items in your pantry already, making it an easy go-to recipe.
- Family-Friendly Preparation: The steps are straightforward, so you can even get the kids involved in the process.
- Comfort Food Delight: These rolls are the epitome of comfort food, perfect for a cozy breakfast or a delightful dessert.
- Versatile and Delicious: Whether you’re serving them for brunch or as a sweet treat, they’re sure to please everyone at the table.
- Perfect for Gatherings: The recipe yields 12 rolls, making it ideal for family gatherings or weekend brunches with friends.
The Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast
- 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
For the Lemon Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
For the Lemon Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
Directions:
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Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add melted butter, egg, and salt. Gradually add flour and knead until the dough is soft and slightly sticky (5–7 minutes).
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Let the dough rise: Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
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Make the filling: While the dough rises, mix softened butter, sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth.
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Roll and fill: Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a 12×18-inch rectangle. Spread the lemon filling evenly over the dough.
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Shape the rolls: Roll the dough tightly from the long side into a log. Slice into 12 equal rolls and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Second rise: Cover and let the rolls rise for 30 minutes or until puffy.
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Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.
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Prepare the glaze: Whisk powdered sugar, lemon juice, and zest until smooth.
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Glaze and serve: Drizzle the lemon glaze over the warm rolls and enjoy!
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Rising Time: 1.5 hours | Baking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Calories: 280 kcal | Servings: 12 rolls
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Rolling pin
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Clean kitchen towel
The Benefits of Each Ingredient
- All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of any great roll, providing the perfect structure.
- Instant Yeast: Speeds up the rising process, so you get fluffy rolls without the long wait.
- Milk: Adds moisture and a hint of richness to the dough.
- Butter: Both in the dough and filling, it provides that luscious, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Fresh Lemon Juice & Zest: The star of the show, offering that bright, fresh flavor that makes these rolls unforgettable.
What to Serve With This Dish
These lemon rolls pair beautifully with a classic breakfast spread. Consider serving them alongside a hearty omelette (link to omelette recipe on mateorecipes.blog) or a fresh fruit salad. For a truly indulgent brunch, add a side of creamy scrambled eggs (link to scrambled eggs recipe on mateorecipes.blog) and a cup of hot coffee or tea.
Storage & Leftover Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (a rare occurrence in my house!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To enjoy them warm again, pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. You can also freeze the rolls before glazing them; just make sure to thaw and warm them before adding the lemon glaze.
These Lusciously Soft Lemon Rolls are more than just a recipe; they’re an invitation to create lasting family memories. Whether it’s a lazy weekend morning or a special family brunch, these rolls are sure to be a hit. Remember, the best recipes are the ones shared with those you love. Happy baking!
Lusciously Soft Lemon Rolls 🍋🍰
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add melted butter, egg, vanilla extract, and salt. Gradually add flour and knead until the dough is soft and slightly sticky (5–7 minutes).
- Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
- While the dough rises, mix softened butter, sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a 12×18-inch rectangle. Spread the lemon filling evenly over the dough.
- Roll the dough tightly from the long side into a log. Slice into 12 equal rolls and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cover and let the rolls rise for 30 minutes or until puffy.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Whisk powdered sugar, lemon juice, and zest until smooth.
- Drizzle the lemon glaze over the warm rolls and enjoy!