Lemon Rolls

Cozy Freshness with Lemon Rolls

There’s something undeniably comforting about the smell of freshly baked goods wafting through the house, and when those goods involve lemon, well, that’s another level of comfort. Lemon rolls are a delightful twist on traditional cinnamon rolls, with their zesty filling and sweet, tangy icing. Imagine pulling a pan of these golden rolls from the oven, the vibrant scent of lemon mingling with buttery dough, inviting you in for a taste. Each bite bursts with refreshing brightness, making them perfect for any time of the year but especially cherished during bright spring mornings or cheerful holiday brunches. Lemon rolls are not just a treat; they’re an experience, evoking nostalgia and warmth, leaving you with a smile and perhaps a little zest in your heart.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What makes these lemon rolls stand out? Here are a few reasons why this recipe will be your new go-to for baking:

• Bright Flavor: The combination of fresh lemon zest and lemon juice ensures a refreshing flavor profile that’s both sweet and tart.
• Soft & Fluffy Texture: The rolls are light and airy, thanks to the careful kneading and rising process, making each bite incredibly enjoyable.
• Simple Ingredients: You don’t need complicated items; just basic baking essentials plus lemon, which makes it accessible for any home cook.
• Versatile Treat: Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or a special occasion, these rolls are perfect for every moment and are bound to impress your friends and family.
• Creative Twist on Tradition: If you love cinnamon rolls or sweet pastries, these lemon rolls will bring a delightful new flavor to your regular rotations.

How to Make Lemon Rolls

Let’s dive into the fun part! Making lemon rolls is easier than you might think, and I promise, the outcome is well worth the effort. Just follow along step-by-step, and you’ll find it a pleasurable experience.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 4 1/4 cups all-purpose flour + addition flour added later in the process (530g)
• 4 1/2 tsp or 2 packets instant dry yeast (14g, 1/2 oz.)
• 1 Tbsp + 1 tsp poppy seeds – optional
• 1 tsp fine salt (6g)
• 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature (240g)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100g)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature (113g)
• 2 large eggs, room temperature (112g)
• 2 Tbsp fresh lemon zest, or the zest of 2 large lemons (6g)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100g)
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar (100g)
• 2 Tbsp fresh lemon zest, or the zest of 2 large lemons (6g)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (113g)
• 2 cups powdered sugar (250g)
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (60g)
• 2 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted (28g)
• Fresh Lemon Zest
• 9 x 13-inch Pan
• Parchment Paper
• Stand Mixer w/ Dough Hook or Danish Dough Whisk
• Ruler
• Dental Floss

Key Ingredient Notes

• Flour: All-purpose flour is essential as it gives the rolls structure while still allowing for fluffiness. Make sure it’s fresh for the best results.
• Yeast: Using instant dry yeast means you can skip the proofing step. It helps the dough rise beautifully, ensuring lovely rolls that are light and airy.
• Buttermilk: This adds richness and moisture while also contributing to a tender crumb. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing regular milk with a splash of vinegar.
• Butter: Both kinds of butter (room temperature and softened) are crucial. Room temperature butter helps in creaming the dough, while softened butter is spread into the filling.
• Lemon Zest and Juice: Fresh lemon zest and juice give the rolls their unmistakable flavor, so don’t skip these. You can use bottle lemon juice, but fresh is always preferable.

Directions

First, let’s make the dough for your lemon rolls. In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour with the instant dry yeast, salt, and poppy seeds if you’re using them. In another bowl, warm the buttermilk until it’s just lukewarm—this ensures it’s cozy enough to activate the yeast without killing it. Once warmed, whisk in the granulated sugar and room temperature butter until well combined.

Next, add in the two eggs and two tablespoons of fresh lemon zest. You’ll see how the mixture begins to come together beautifully. Gradually mix in the flour mixture, either by hand or with a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, until a soft dough forms. This dough will be slightly sticky; do not worry if it looks thicker than normal—everything will come together in the kneading process.

Once the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl, transfer it to a floured surface. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This is when it starts to feel cohesive and you might notice it getting a bit silky.

Now, place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour or until it doubles in size. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s puffy and holds an indentation when pressed lightly.

While waiting, let’s prepare the filling! In a medium bowl, blend the light brown sugar with granulated sugar, softened butter, and another two tablespoons of lemon zest until it forms a spreadable paste. The combo of sugars will create a delightful sweet filling with that wonderful lemony freshness.

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air and then gently transfer it back onto a floured surface. Roll the dough out into a rectangle that measures about 16 x 12 inches. Spread the lemon filling generously across the surface of the dough. Don’t forget to leave a small border along the edges to prevent filling from oozing out during baking!

Now, here comes the fun part—rolling it up! Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. You’ll want to keep it even as you go to ensure uniform rolls. When you reach the end, pinch the seam to seal it.

To cut your rolls, I recommend using dental floss. Slide the floss under the roll, cross it over the top, and pull to cut through the dough without squishing it. Aim for about one-inch pieces. Place the rolls in a greased 9 by 13-inch pan lined with parchment paper.

Cover your rolls again and allow them to rise for another 30-40 minutes until they’re puffy. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Once your rolls are fully risen, pop them in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll notice the edges turning golden brown, and the aroma that fills your kitchen will be pure bliss.

While the rolls cool, let’s prepare the icing—because what’s a lemon roll without its icing? In a bowl, combine the powdered sugar with fresh lemon juice and melted butter, mixing until fully combined. The icing should be thick yet pourable.

Finally, once the rolls have cooled slightly, drizzle or spread the icing generously over them. Gorgeous!

How to Serve Lemon Rolls

Serving lemon rolls feels like an event in itself. These delicious treats shine best at brunches, perhaps alongside a light salad or some fresh fruit. The golden color of the rolls, paired with the bright white icing and the zesty flecks of lemon zest, is a visual feast.

You might consider slicing them in half and toasting them briefly for a delightful breakfast twist, or even serving them with a side of blueberry compote for a complimentary flavor pairing. Their soft and fluffy texture is heavenly with a warm beverage, making them perfect for morning or afternoon tea.

How to Store Lemon Rolls

Leftovers? Yes, please! To keep your lemon rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you make a big batch and want to save some for later, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can stay frozen for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes—this will give you that lovely crisp edge. A quick microwave warm-up works, too, although the texture won’t be quite as lovely!

Tips for Perfect Lemon Rolls

To elevate your lemon roll-making game, consider the following:

• Don’t Rush the Rising: Allowing the dough to rise properly is crucial for fluffy rolls. If it seems cold in your kitchen, create a warm environment by turning on the oven for a minute and then turning it off to let the dough rise.
• Measure Your Ingredients Accurately: Too much flour can make your rolls dense. Use a kitchen scale for precision.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Knead just until it’s smooth. Overworking can make the rolls tough instead of fluffy.
• Experiment with Fillings: Don’t hesitate to add more flavor to the filling, like a touch of cinnamon or even some crushed nuts for texture.

Variations

Feel like getting creative? Here are some fun variations for your lemon rolls:

• Lavender Lemon Rolls: Infuse a gentle floral note by adding culinary lavender into the filling. The combination of lemon and lavender creates an elegant, fresh flavor.
• Blueberry Lemon Rolls: Toss fresh or frozen blueberries into the filling for a fruity twist that pairs beautifully with lemon. You can also turn it into a lemon-blueberry glaze by combining blueberry syrup with the lemon icing.
• Gluten-Free Lemon Rolls: Swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend that includes xanthan gum. Be sure to check recipes that suggest specific brands for the best results.
• Dairy-Free Lemon Rolls: Replace the buttermilk with almond or coconut milk and the butter with a dairy-free alternative. These rolls will still be packed with delightful lemon flavor.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before you continue with the filling and shaping.

What’s the best way to serve these rolls?

These lemon rolls shine best when freshly baked and warm, paired with a dollop of whipped cream or a cup of tea. However, they’re also delicious at room temperature for casual gatherings.

What if my dough isn’t rising?

If your dough isn’t rising, it could be due to cold ingredients or inactive yeast. Make sure your buttermilk is warm (not hot), and verify that your yeast is fresh and has been properly stored.

Can I adjust the sweetness of the icing?

Definitely! If you prefer a less sweet icing, reduce the powdered sugar gradually until you reach your desired sweetness. You can also add a pinch of salt to balance the flavors better.

Wrap-Up

Baking lemon rolls can be a delightful experience that fills your home with joy and warmth. Each roll is an invitation to savor the zesty brightness and comforting sweetness that brings families and friends together. I encourage you to try this recipe, share it with your loved ones, and make it a part of your cherished repertoire.

If you love these lemon rolls, don’t forget to save this recipe for later, or share it with someone who would appreciate the bright flavors and cozy memories they provide! Happy baking!