Lemon Rolls Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a delightful treat that combines fluffy, tender rolls with the zesty brightness only lemon can provide, this Lemon Rolls Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Bursting with fresh lemon flavor, these rolls are soft, lightly sweetened, and topped with a tangy glaze that keeps you coming back for more. Whether you’re baking for a weekend brunch, a casual get-together, or simply craving a citrus-kissed sweet roll, this recipe hits all the right notes while staying surprisingly simple to put together. Let’s dive in and turn ordinary bread dough into something truly extraordinary!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Lemon Rolls Recipe plays a star role. From the soft richness of the bread dough to the bright zing of fresh lemon zest and juice, each element is straightforward but essential. Together, they create a wonderfully balanced roll that’s as fresh as spring and as comforting as your favorite pastry.

• Refrigerated bread dough (16 oz): Your base for tender, fluffy rolls that bake up golden and soft.
• Lemon zest of 1 lemon: Adds a vibrant citrus aroma and bright flavor to every bite.
• Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Provides the perfect touch of sweetness to balance the tart lemon.
• Unsalted butter (1/4 cup, softened): Ensures richness and moist layers inside the roll.
• Powdered sugar (1 cup): The sweet foundation for the luscious lemon glaze topping.
• Fresh lemon juice (2-3 tablespoons): Gives the glaze its tangy, refreshing kick.
• Lemon slices (optional): Great for a pretty, fragrant garnish that wows at presentation.

How to Make Lemon Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Space

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). To ensure your rolls don’t stick, grease a baking dish generously or line it with parchment paper. Getting this part right means your rolls will slide out easily once baked, keeping their pretty shapes intact.

Step 2: Roll Out the Dough

On a lightly floured surface, unroll and gently roll out the refrigerated bread dough into a soft rectangle. This gives you the perfect canvas for layering on your luscious lemon butter spread and sugar.

Step 3: Mix the Lemon Sugar

In a small bowl, combine the lemon zest with the granulated sugar. This mixture is key—it infuses the dough with zingy sweetness, ensuring that lovely lemon flavor shines through every layer.

Step 4: Spread the Butter and Sugar

Softened butter is your secret weapon here. Spread it evenly over the rolled-out dough, then sprinkle the lemon sugar mixture on top. This step makes sure every bite is moist, flavorful, and just the right balance of creamy and citrusy.

Step 5: Roll Into a Log

Starting from one of the long edges, carefully roll the dough into a tight log shape. This rolling technique creates those beautiful, spiraled lemon pockets in your final rolls.

Step 6: Cut and Arrange the Rolls

Slice your log evenly into 12 pieces and place each cut side up in your prepared baking dish. The pieces should fit snugly but not crowded—this allows them to puff up beautifully while baking.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide your baking dish into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown on top and cooked through. Your kitchen will soon fill with the fragrant smell of baked lemon goodness that’s absolutely irresistible.

Step 8: Prepare the Lemon Glaze

While the rolls bake, whisk together the powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice until smooth. The glaze should be thick enough to drizzle but still pour easily. This finishing touch adds a sweet-tart layer that makes these rolls unforgettable.

Step 9: Glaze and Garnish

As soon as the rolls come out warm from the oven, drizzle the lemon glaze generously over them. If you want to add a bit of flair, top with thin lemon slices for a fresh, decorative touch before serving.

How to Serve Lemon Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishes can elevate your Lemon Rolls Recipe from delicious to delightful. A few thin lemon slices or a sprinkle of finely grated lemon zest on top add color and extra aroma, making each roll look as good as it tastes.

Side Dishes

Lemon rolls shine alongside breakfast favorites like scrambled eggs, fresh berries, or a dollop of Greek yogurt. They also work wonderfully as a sweet treat paired with tea or coffee for an afternoon pick-me-up that feels special.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve these lemon rolls on a beautiful cake stand or in individual small bowls with a spoonful of whipped cream or lemon curd. You might also sprinkle some toasted nuts or poppy seeds over the glaze for texture and crunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which can be rare!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them soft and fresh. Avoid refrigeration as it tends to dry out the rolls.

Freezing

These lemon rolls freeze beautifully. Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap, then place them together in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months—perfect for prepping treats ahead of time.

Reheating

To bring your rolls back to life, warm them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or pop them in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes. Either method restores that fresh-baked softness and warms up the glaze to a lovely, melty finish.

FAQs

Can I use homemade dough instead of refrigerated bread dough?

Absolutely! Homemade dough works wonderfully if you want to add a personal touch, just make sure it’s soft and elastic for easy rolling. The key is to have a dough that rises well and bakes fluffy.

How can I make this recipe vegan-friendly?

Swap out butter for a plant-based margarine and use a dairy-free powdered sugar if possible. Also, check your bread dough ingredients or use a vegan homemade version to keep everything plant-based without sacrificing flavor.

Is it necessary to use fresh lemon juice in the glaze?

Fresh lemon juice really elevates the glaze with natural brightness, but in a pinch, you can use bottled lemon juice. Just make sure it’s pure lemon juice without added preservatives or sweeteners for the best taste.

Can I add other flavors or fillings to the rolls?

Definitely! While this Lemon Rolls Recipe is amazing on its own, you can experiment with adding poppy seeds, a bit of vanilla extract, or even a thin spread of cream cheese under the lemon sugar for a richer twist.

What’s the best way to ensure my rolls come out fluffy and not dense?

Be gentle when rolling and avoid overworking the dough. Also, make sure your dough is at room temperature when starting, as this promotes proper rising and a soft, airy texture.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about pulling warm, fragrant lemon rolls fresh from the oven and savoring that perfect balance of sweet and tangy in every bite. This Lemon Rolls Recipe is straightforward, fun to make, and guaranteed to brighten any morning or afternoon treat. Trust me, once you try these rolls, they’ll quickly become a beloved staple you’ll want to share with everyone you know. So grab that dough, zest a lemon, and let’s get baking—your taste buds will thank you!

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