Description

Lemon Sweet Rolls are a zesty twist on classic cinnamon rolls, featuring fluffy, buttery dough swirled with a sweet lemon-sugar filling and topped with a tangy lemon glaze. Perfect for spring brunches or holiday mornings, they offer a light and refreshing citrus flavor in every bite.

Ingredients

4 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
2 large eggs
1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 tsp salt
Zest of 2 lemons
1/2 cup granulated sugar (for filling)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling)
1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 tbsp fresh lemon juice (for glaze)
1–2 tbsp milk or softened cream cheese (optional, for glaze)

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Instructions

In a large bowl, mix warm milk, granulated sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Add melted butter, eggs, and salt. Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Knead dough for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–1.5 hours or until doubled.
In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup sugar with lemon zest for the filling.
Roll dough into a large rectangle (about 16×12 inches). Spread softened butter over the dough and sprinkle evenly with lemon-sugar mixture.
Roll up tightly from the long side and cut into 12 equal rolls.
Place rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for another 30–45 minutes.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.
While rolls are cooling slightly, whisk powdered sugar with lemon juice and milk or cream cheese to make glaze.
Drizzle glaze over warm rolls and serve.

Notes

Use fresh lemon zest and juice for the best flavor.Chilling the dough before slicing helps keep rolls tight and neat.Add poppy seeds to the filling for a lemon-poppy variation.Freeze unglazed baked rolls for up to 2 months and glaze after reheating.To make ahead, refrigerate shaped rolls overnight and bake in the morning.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 roll
Calories: 320
Sugar: 22g
Sodium: 140mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 47g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 55mg