These Lemon Rolls are a delightful treat that will brighten up any occasion! Perfect for breakfast or brunch, they’re soft, fluffy, and filled with a luscious lemon flavor. Topped with a sweet lemon icing, these rolls are not just visually appealing but also a delicious way to start your day or impress guests at your next gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, anyone can whip up these lemon rolls in no time.
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of fresh lemon zest and juice delivers a refreshing taste that elevates your palate.
- Versatile Treat: These rolls are perfect for summer gatherings, holiday brunches, or even as an afternoon snack.
- Gooey Centers: The soft texture paired with a gooey center makes each bite irresistible.
- Customizable Options: Feel free to add poppy seeds or experiment with different frostings to suit your taste.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools is crucial for making these lemon rolls successfully. Below are some essential items you’ll need to get started.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand Mixer w/ Dough Hook or Danish Dough Whisk
- 9 x 13-inch Pan
- Parchment Paper
- Ruler
- Dental Floss
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand Mixer w/ Dough Hook: This tool takes the work out of kneading dough, ensuring it’s mixed evenly and gives you perfect texture.
- 9 x 13-inch Pan: Ideal for baking these rolls evenly, this pan allows them to rise beautifully without crowding.
- Dental Floss: A unique tool for cutting the rolled dough without squishing it, providing neat slices for uniform baking.
Ingredients
These lemon rolls are ready in 90 minutes, bake up soft and fluffy with gooey centers, and are topped with the best lemon icing! They’re bursting with lemon flavor and are the perfect summer breakfast or brunch!
For the Dough
- 4 1/4 cups all-purpose flour + additional flour as needed (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 (6g)
For the Filling
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100g)
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar (100g)
- 2 Tbsp fresh lemon zest (6g)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (113g)
For the Icing
- 2 cups powdered sugar (250g)
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (60g)
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted (28g)
- Fresh Lemon Zest
How to Make Lemon Rolls
Step 1: Prepare Your Dough
- In a stand mixer bowl fitted with a dough hook, combine the flour, yeast, salt, buttermilk, granulated sugar, butter, eggs, and lemon zest.
- Mix on low speed until combined. Increase to medium speed and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.
- If the dough is sticky, gradually add more flour until it’s workable.
Step 2: Let It Rise
- Form the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover it with plastic wrap or a damp towel.
- Allow it to rise in a warm area until doubled in size—approximately 30-45 minutes.
Step 3: Shape the Rolls
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle about 12×18 inches.
- Spread softened butter over the surface of the dough.
- Mix together granulated sugar, brown sugar, and lemon zest; sprinkle this mixture evenly over the buttered dough.
Step 4: Roll & Cut
- Starting from one long edge of the rectangle, tightly roll up the dough into a log shape.
- Use dental floss to slice into equal pieces—about 12 rolls total.
Step 5: Second Rise & Bake
- Place rolls cut side up in the prepared pan lined with parchment paper.
- Cover again and let rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 28 minutes or until golden brown.
Step 6: Ice & Enjoy!
- Mix powdered sugar with lemon juice and melted butter until smooth.
- Drizzle over warm rolls and garnish with fresh lemon zest before serving.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Lemon Rolls, bursting with flavor!
How to Serve Lemon Rolls
Lemon rolls are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. They make for an excellent breakfast or a sweet addition to your brunch spread. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your lemon rolls experience.
With Fresh Berries
- Serve lemon rolls alongside a medley of fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. The tartness of the berries complements the sweetness of the rolls beautifully.
Drizzled with Extra Icing
- For those with a sweet tooth, drizzle more lemon icing over the top of each roll just before serving. This adds an extra layer of flavor and makes them irresistibly delicious.
Paired with Whipped Cream
- Top your lemon rolls with a dollop of whipped cream for a creamy contrast. This combination works well for special occasions or when you want to indulge.
As Part of a Brunch Platter
- Include lemon rolls on a large brunch platter filled with assorted pastries, fruits, and cheeses. Their bright flavor will stand out among other treats and invite guests to indulge.
How to Perfect Lemon Rolls
To achieve soft, fluffy, and flavorful lemon rolls, consider these essential tips that enhance both texture and taste.
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your buttermilk, eggs, and butter are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother dough that rises better during baking.
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Knead Properly: Kneading the dough until it is smooth and elastic is crucial for the structure of the rolls. A well-kneaded dough will trap air better during rising.
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Allow for Proper Rising: Letting the dough rise in a warm environment allows yeast to work effectively. A good first rise will result in fluffy rolls.
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Measure Accurately: Use precise measurements for flour and sugar to avoid dense rolls. Too much flour can lead to dry results, while too little can affect structure.
Best Side Dishes for Lemon Rolls
Lemon rolls pair well with many dishes, making them versatile for any meal. Here are some great side options that complement their zesty flavor.
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Fresh Fruit Salad
A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balance alongside lemon rolls. -
Greek Yogurt Parfait
Layer Greek yogurt with granola and berries for a nutritious side that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the rolls. -
Scrambled Eggs
Lightly seasoned scrambled eggs add protein and richness, making for a satisfying breakfast duo with lemon rolls. -
Crispy Hash Browns
Golden brown hash browns provide a savory crunch that pairs excellently with sweet lemon flavors. -
Smoothie Bowl
A vibrant smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds offers healthy fats and enhances the morning experience when served with lemon rolls. -
Herbed Cream Cheese Spread
A spread made from cream cheese mixed with fresh herbs can be served on the side for those who enjoy savory flavors contrasting with sweetness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making lemon rolls, there are a few common pitfalls that can affect the final result. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Not measuring flour accurately – Too much or too little flour can lead to dense rolls. Always use a scale or spoon and level method for accurate measurement.
- Using cold ingredients – Cold buttermilk and eggs can hinder yeast activation. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.
- Skipping the rising time – Yeast needs time to work its magic. Allow the dough to rise until it doubles in size for fluffy rolls.
- Overbaking – Keeping lemon rolls in the oven too long can make them dry. Check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested baking time.
- Ignoring the importance of zest – Fresh lemon zest adds a burst of flavor. Don’t skip this step; it’s crucial for vibrant taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store lemon rolls in an airtight container.
- They can last up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Lemon Rolls
- Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag.
- They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating Lemon Rolls
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat rolls for about 10 minutes until warm.
- Microwave – Heat individual rolls on high for 15-20 seconds, checking frequently.
- Stovetop – Place rolls in a covered skillet over low heat for a few minutes, allowing steam to warm them through.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making lemon rolls, we’ve got answers!
What are lemon rolls?
Lemon rolls are soft, fluffy sweet rolls flavored with fresh lemons and topped with tangy icing. They are perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but you may need more liquid as it absorbs moisture differently than all-purpose flour.
How do I know when my lemon rolls are done baking?
The rolls should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped lightly on the bottom.
Can I make lemon rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and let it rise overnight in the refrigerator for convenience.
Final Thoughts
These lemon rolls are not only delightful but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize them with different fillings or toppings to suit your taste. Enjoy making these delicious treats!