Introduction
There’s something truly magical about the combination of sweet dough and fresh citrus, and these Lemon Rolls encapsulate that bliss in every bite. Imagine fluffy rolls infused with the zesty brightness of lemons, drizzled with a sugary glaze that adds just the right touch of sweetness. Perfect for brunch gatherings or an afternoon treat, these rolls will have your home smelling like a bakery and your taste buds dancing. Get ready to embrace the joy of baking and share these delightful rolls with friends and family!
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 4 to 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for filling)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened (for filling)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 2-3 tbsp milk (for glaze)
- Additional lemon zest (for garnish)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 12 rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy, signaling that the yeast is active.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, salt, eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice until well combined.
- Add the foamy yeast mixture to the bowl and stir until everything is incorporated.
- Gradually add 4 cups of all-purpose flour, mixing until a soft dough begins to form. Adjust with more flour if needed.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for approximately 5-10 minutes, adding flour as necessary until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours.
- After the dough has risen, punch it down gently and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle, approximately 1/4 inch thick.
- Spread the softened butter for the filling evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the filling sugar generously on top.
- Starting from one edge, roll the dough tightly into a log and cut it into 12 equal pieces.
- Place the rolls in a greased baking pan, cover them, and allow them to rise again for 30-45 minutes until puffy.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you wait for the rolls to rise.
- Once ready, bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until they turn a lovely golden brown.
- While they bake, prepare the glaze by mixing the powdered sugar and milk in a small bowl until you achieve a smooth consistency.
- After the rolls are out of the oven, drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls and finish with a sprinkle of additional lemon zest for that pop of citrus flair.
Notes or Tips
- For a more intense lemon flavor, consider adding a touch of lemon extract to the glaze.
- These rolls are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for a couple of days.
- You can experiment with the filling by adding poppy seeds or nuts for extra texture and flavor!
Cooking Techniques
Kneading the dough is crucial for developing gluten, which gives the rolls their fluffy texture. Don’t rush the rising times; allowing the dough to rise adequately will result in light and airy rolls. If your kitchen is cool, try placing the dough in a slightly warmed oven to help it along.
FAQ
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
No problem! You can prepare the dough and let it rise, then store it in the refrigerator overnight. Allow it to come to room temperature before rolling it out.
What can I do if my rolls don’t rise?
Make sure your yeast is fresh and active. If the dough doesn’t seem to rise, ensure that it is in a warm environment—try placing it near a warm stove or in a sunny spot!
Conclusion
These Lemon Rolls are more than just a treat; they are a celebration of the vibrant flavors of citrus and the comforting warmth of freshly baked bread. Whether shared with family during a lazy Sunday brunch or enjoyed solo with a cup of tea, each bite is sure to brighten your day. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get baking!