Sweet Lemon Rolls

Introduction

Sweet Lemon Rolls are a delightful treat perfect for breakfast or dessert. These rolls are soft, fluffy, and filled with a luscious lemon filling, topped off with a zesty glaze that makes them truly irresistible. With the right balance of sweetness and tanginess, these rolls will brighten any day. Whether for a family gathering or a cozy brunch, these lemon rolls are sure to impress.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

All-purpose flour: 4 cups
Granulated sugar: ½ cup
Active dry yeast: 2 ¼ teaspoons
Salt: 1 teaspoon
Milk: 1 cup, warmed
Unsalted butter: ½ cup, melted
Eggs: 2 large
Lemon zest: 2 tablespoons
Lemon juice: 3 tablespoons
Powdered sugar: 1 cup (for glaze)
Additional lemon juice: 2 tablespoons (for glaze)

Prep Time

The preparation time for Sweet Lemon Rolls is approximately 15 to 20 minutes. This allows for mixing the ingredients and preparing the dough for rising.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook time is around 25 to 30 minutes. In total, the whole process including preparation, rising, and baking may take about 2 hours. This recipe yields approximately 12 sweet lemon rolls, perfect for sharing!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy. Add melted butter, egg yolk, and lemon zest. Mix well. Gradually add in the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm area until it doubles in size, approximately 1 hour.

Step 3: Prepare Filling

While the dough rises, prepare the filling by mixing together the sugar and lemon zest in a small bowl. Set aside.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick on a floured surface. Spread softened butter over the surface of the dough.

Step 5: Add Filling

Sprinkle the lemon and sugar mixture evenly over the buttered dough, making sure it covers the entire surface.

Step 6: Roll the Dough

Starting from the long side of the rectangle, roll the dough tightly into a log shape. Pinch the seams to seal.

Step 7: Slice the Rolls

Using a sharp knife or dental floss, cut the rolled dough into 12 equal pieces. Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, leaving some space between each roll.

Step 8: Second Rise

Cover the dish with a towel and let the rolls rise for another 30-45 minutes until they puff up.

Step 9: Bake the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown on top.

Step 10: Prepare the Glaze

While the rolls are baking, mix together powdered sugar and lemon juice to create a glaze.

Step 11: Glaze the Rolls

Once the rolls are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Drizzle the lemon glaze over the warm rolls before serving.

Notes

Note 1: Temperature of Ingredients

Make sure the milk used for the dough is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.

Note 2: Rising Time

The rising times may vary depending on the temperature of your kitchen. Ensure the dough has doubled in size during both rises.

Note 3: Serving Suggestions

These rolls are best served warm and can be enjoyed as a dessert or a sweet breakfast treat.

Note 4: Storage

Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for a longer shelf life. You can also freeze rolls to enjoy later.

Cook techniques

Kneading Dough

Kneading is essential for developing gluten, which gives the dough structure and elasticity. Use your hands or a stand mixer to knead until the dough is smooth and elastic.

Proofing

Proofing allows the yeast to ferment and produce gas, making the dough rise. Keep the dough in a warm, draft-free area until it has doubled in size.

Shaping Rolls

Once proofed, flatten the dough and roll it into a rectangle. Spread the filling evenly and roll tightly to shape the rolls, ensuring they are uniform in size for even baking.

Baking

Bake the rolls in a preheated oven until golden brown. This ensures that the exterior is crisp while the inside remains soft and fluffy.

Glazing

After baking, brush the rolls with a glaze for added sweetness and shine. This enhances the overall flavor and gives a beautiful finish.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of filling?

Yes, you can substitute the filling with other flavors such as chocolate, cinnamon, or fruit spreads according to your preference.

How do I store leftover rolls?

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and filling one day ahead, refrigerate it, and bake fresh rolls the next day.

What type of flour works best?

All-purpose flour is recommended for this recipe, as it provides the right balance of strength and tenderness.

How can I tell when the rolls are done baking?

The rolls are done when they are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Conclusion

The sweet lemon rolls are a delightful treat that perfectly balances the tangy flavor of lemon with the sweetness of a soft roll. They make for an excellent dessert or snack, and their fluffy texture is sure to impress anyone who tries them. Whether served warm from the oven or as a make-ahead delight, these rolls can brighten up any meal. The versatility of the lemon flavor adds a refreshing twist that is both invigorating and satisfying.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Lemon Blueberry Sweet Rolls

Combine the tangy goodness of lemon with plump blueberries for a fruity variation that bursts with flavor.

Maple Lemon Glaze Rolls

Drizzle a maple-infused lemon glaze over the rolls for a rich and sweet combination that is perfect for breakfast.

Cinnamon Lemon Rolls

Add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the lemon filling for a warm, spiced addition that complements the citrus perfectly.

Pistachio Lemon Rolls

Incorporate crushed pistachios into the dough or as a topping for a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with lemon.

Lavender Lemon Sweet Rolls

Infuse lavender into the dough or garnish the rolls with lavender sprigs for an aromatic twist that elevates the classic recipe.