If you love bright, zesty flavors paired with soft, pillowy dough, you are absolutely going to fall in love with this Lemon Rolls with Lemon Glaze Recipe. These rolls offer a perfect balance of sweet and tart, infused with fresh lemon zest and juice through every tender bite. Topped with a luscious lemon glaze that melts into the warm rolls, they make for a delightful treat that’s both refreshing and comforting. Whether you’re sharing with family for breakfast or serving as a cheerful dessert, these lemon rolls bring sunshine to any table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things simple but incredibly flavorful. The ingredients each play a crucial role in giving the rolls that soft texture and vibrant lemon punch you’ll crave again and again.
- 1 cup warm milk: Helps activate the yeast and create a tender dough.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens and feeds the yeast for a perfect rise.
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast: The magic behind the fluffy, airy texture.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and moisture to the dough.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances flavors and enhances the lemon zest.
- 4 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure and softness.
- 1 large egg: Adds tenderness and helps bind the dough.
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest: Infuses bright citrus flavor throughout the dough.
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice: Brings tang and freshness to the filling and glaze.
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed: Adds depth and a caramel note to the filling.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened: Used to spread richness inside the rolls.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: The base for the irresistible lemon glaze.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Gives the glaze a bright, zesty kick.
- 1 tablespoon milk: Creates the perfect consistency for drizzling the glaze.
How to Make Lemon Rolls with Lemon Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Start by combining warm milk, granulated sugar, and yeast in a small bowl. Let this mixture sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy on top. This foaming shows that the yeast is active and ready to work its magic on the dough.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter, salt, flour, egg, and that fragrant lemon zest. Once well combined, pour in the yeast mixture and stir until a sticky dough forms. This combination is where the citrus aroma begins to shine through.
Step 3: Knead to Perfection
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5 to 7 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it feels smooth, elastic, and slightly springy to the touch. This kneading step is essential for creating the soft, tender crumb we all desire.
Step 4: First Rise
Place your kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a clean cloth. Set it somewhere warm and let it rise for an hour or until it has doubled in size. Watching it puff up is like seeing your hard work begin to come to life!
Step 5: Roll and Fill
After punching down the dough, roll it out on a floured surface into a 12×18-inch rectangle. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle with brown sugar and drizzle the fresh lemon juice on top. This luscious filling is where the tender rolls will get their sweet and tangy character.
Step 6: Shape the Rolls
Carefully roll the dough tightly into a log, then slice it into 12 equal pieces. Each piece is destined to become a soft, citrusy delight. Arrange the rolls cut-side up in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, making sure to leave a little room for them to grow.
Step 7: Second Rise
Cover the rolls and let them puff up again for about 30 to 45 minutes. This second rise results in light, airy rolls with just the right amount of fluffiness.
Step 8: Bake to Golden Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Bake the rolls for 25 to 30 minutes until they turn a gorgeous golden brown. The aroma flooding your kitchen at this stage will be irresistible!
Step 9: Drizzle with Lemon Glaze
While the rolls bake, whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and milk until smooth. Once the rolls come out of the oven, drizzle this luscious lemon glaze generously over the warm rolls so it soaks in perfectly.
How to Serve Lemon Rolls with Lemon Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
To brighten up the presentation and add texture, consider garnishing your lemon rolls with a sprinkle of extra lemon zest or finely chopped fresh mint leaves. A few thin lemon slices fanned on the side also make for a stunning, fresh look that hints at the flavor inside.
Side Dishes
These lemon rolls are wonderfully versatile. Serve them alongside a cup of hot coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast or brunch. They also pair beautifully with fresh berries or a light fruit salad, which complements the citrus notes without overwhelming the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special touch, serve these lemon rolls warm on a rustic wooden board or a colorful ceramic platter. Drizzle extra lemon glaze just before serving and add edible flowers for a spring-inspired look that will brighten any gathering or celebration.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover lemon rolls should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and soft for up to 2 days, making them perfect for a quick snack or sweet breakfast the following morning.
Freezing
You can freeze baked rolls by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer bag. They keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge or at room temperature to retain that fresh-baked quality.
Reheating
Reheat the rolls gently in the oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. For a microwave quick fix, heat them covered with a damp paper towel for about 20 seconds. Add a little extra lemon glaze after reheating for that freshly made taste.
FAQs
Can I use lemon juice from a bottle instead of fresh lemons?
Fresh lemon juice is best for that bright, vibrant flavor in both the dough and the glaze, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch. Just be sure to choose a high-quality product without added sugars or preservatives.
Is it possible to make these rolls dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the milk with your favorite plant-based milk and swap the butter with a non-dairy alternative. The texture might be slightly different but the lemony flavor will still shine through beautifully.
How do I prevent the rolls from becoming too dry?
Be sure not to overbake your lemon rolls. Also, storing them in an airtight container or wrapping them tightly helps keep them moist. Adding the lemon glaze while the rolls are still warm seals in extra moisture and flavor.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise once, then cover and refrigerate it overnight. When ready, roll, fill, and shape the rolls the next day before letting them rise again and baking. This is great for planning ahead!
What is the best way to get an even glaze on the rolls?
Use a spoon or a small whisk to drizzle the lemon glaze evenly over the warm rolls, allowing it to soak in. For a more polished look, let the rolls cool just slightly before glazing so the glaze doesn’t run off entirely.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about making and sharing these lemon rolls with lemon glaze recipe. The way the citrus wakes up your taste buds paired with the soft, buttery dough just feels like a warm hug from the inside. If you’re looking to brighten your baking routine or surprise loved ones with a sweet treat, these rolls are your go-to. I can’t wait for you to give them a try and enjoy every delicious moment!
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Lemon Rolls with Lemon Glaze Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These delightful Lemon Rolls feature a soft, buttery dough infused with fresh lemon zest and juice, topped with a tangy lemon glaze. Perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack, they combine the comforting texture of classic rolls with a bright citrus twist.
Ingredients
Dough
- 1 cup warm milk
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
Filling
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Prepare Dough Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, mix melted butter, salt, all-purpose flour, egg, and lemon zest together. Add the yeast mixture and stir until a dough forms.
- Knead Dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
- Prepare Filling and Shape Rolls: Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a 12×18-inch rectangle. Spread softened butter evenly over the surface, then sprinkle with brown sugar and drizzle fresh lemon juice over it. Roll the dough tightly from one edge to the other.
- Cut Rolls: Slice the rolled dough into 12 equal pieces and place them into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arranging them with some space to expand.
- Second Rise: Cover the rolls and let them rise for 30-45 minutes until puffed up.
- Preheat Oven and Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes until they turn golden brown on top.
- Make Lemon Glaze: While the rolls bake, whisk together powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and milk until the glaze is smooth.
- Glaze and Serve: Once the rolls come out of the oven and are still warm, drizzle the lemon glaze over them evenly. Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh citrus flavor.
Notes
- Make sure the milk is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
- Kneading time is essential to develop gluten for a soft, elastic dough.
- Allowing the rolls to rise twice ensures a light, fluffy texture.
- For extra lemon flavor, add more zest to the glaze or dough as desired.
- These rolls are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheat gently before serving to soften the butter inside.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
