The Best Zesty Lemon Rolls Recipe for Bright Morning Joy

Zesty lemon rolls dance with vibrant citrus notes that promise pure culinary excitement.

Sweet dough carriers burst with tangy brightness and delicate aromas.

Soft, pillowy textures invite you to savor each delectable bite.

Crafted with simple ingredients, these rolls bring sunshine to any kitchen.

Mediterranean baking traditions inspire this delightful treat that feels both comforting and elegant.

Delicate swirls of lemon-infused filling will make you crave every single morsel.

Bake these rolls and watch smiles bloom around your table.

Why Delicious Homemade Lemon Rolls Recipe Feels So Special

• Blast Through Baking: Straightforward recipe perfect for home bakers of all skill levels, requiring minimal culinary expertise to create a professional-looking treat.
• Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Guaranteed to wow family and friends with its tangy lemon flavor and sweet cinnamon undertones, making it ideal for brunches, potlucks, or weekend gatherings.
• Quick Kitchen Magic: Minimal preparation steps and basic ingredients mean you can transform simple pantry staples into a spectacular dessert without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flexible Flavor Powerhouse: Versatile recipe allows easy customization by adjusting lemon intensity or adding different spices, ensuring it suits various taste preferences and occasions.

What’s Needed For Delicious Homemade Lemon Rolls Recipe

• All-Purpose Flour: A fundamental base that provides structure and texture to the lemon rolls.
• Baking Powder, Baking Soda: Essential leavening agents that help the rolls rise and become fluffy.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness of the rolls.

• Buttermilk, Egg: Contribute moisture and richness to create a tender dough.
• Lemon Juice, Lemon Zest: Provide a bright, citrusy flavor and aromatic essence to the rolls.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a subtle depth of flavor and complements the lemon notes.

• Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar: Provide sweetness and help with caramelization.
• Butter, Melted Butter: Offer richness, flavor, and help create a tender, flaky texture.
• Powdered Sugar: Used for creating a smooth, tangy lemon glaze.
• Cinnamon: Adds a warm, spicy undertone to the roll's filling.

Baking Instructions For Delicious Homemade Lemon Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and coat it lightly with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create the Dry Base

• Flour
• Granulated sugar
• Salt
• Baking powder
• Baking soda

Whisk these ingredients until they’re perfectly blended and free of lumps.

Step 3: Incorporate Butter Goodness

Add softened butter to the flour mixture. Use your fingers or a fork to work the butter in until the mixture looks crumbly and resembles coarse sand.

Step 4: Blend Wet Ingredients

• Buttermilk
• Egg
• Lemon zest
• Lemon juice
• Vanilla extract

Make sure everything is thoroughly combined and smooth.

Step 5: Marry the Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir gently until just combined. The dough should hold together without being overmixed.

Step 6: Roll Out the Dough

Dust a clean surface with flour. Roll the dough into a rectangle about 12×8 inches, keeping the thickness consistent.

Step 7: Create the Filling

• Brown sugar
• Cinnamon

Step 8: Shape the Rolls

Carefully roll the dough into a tight log from one long edge. Slice the log into 12 equal pieces.

Step 9: Let the Rolls Rise

Place the roll slices in the prepared baking dish. Allow them to rest and rise for 20 minutes, becoming puffy and soft.

Step 10: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the tops turn a beautiful golden brown.

Step 11: Whip Up the Zesty Glaze

• Powdered sugar
• Lemon juice

Whisk until you create a smooth, drizzle-worthy glaze.

Step 12: Finish with Flair

Once the rolls have cooled slightly, drizzle the lemon glaze generously over the top. Sprinkle with extra lemon zest for a bright, citrusy finish.

Step 13: Serve and Savor

Your lemon rolls are ready to devour! Serve warm and watch as everyone’s faces light up with pure deliciousness.

Quick Tips For Delicious Homemade Lemon Rolls Recipe

• Prevent Overworking Dough: Mix ingredients gently to keep rolls tender and soft, stopping just when ingredients combine to avoid tough texture.
• Zest for Maximum Flavor: Use fresh lemon zest and roll it into the dough for an intense citrusy punch that elevates the entire recipe.
• Temperature Matters: Ensure butter and buttermilk are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better dough consistency.
• Perfect Rising Technique: Place rolls in a warm, draft-free area to help them rise evenly and develop a light, fluffy texture.
• Precise Cutting Trick: Use dental floss or a sharp knife to slice rolls cleanly without squishing the delicate dough.

Ways To Tweak Delicious Homemade Lemon Rolls Recipe

• Gluten-Free Lemon Rolls: Replace wheat flour with almond or coconut flour for a celiac-friendly version. Use gluten-free baking powder and adjust liquid ratios to maintain dough consistency.
• Vegan Citrus Rolls: Swap buttermilk with almond milk, use coconut oil instead of butter, and replace egg with mashed banana or flaxseed mixture. Keep the zesty lemon flavor intact.
• Reduced Sugar Lemon Rolls: Use stevia or monk fruit sweetener instead of granulated sugar. Reduce brown sugar in filling and replace with cinnamon and chopped nuts for added texture.
• Low-Carb Keto Lemon Rolls: Utilize almond flour, cream cheese, and eggs as base. Replace sugar with erythritol and use lemon extract for citrus profile.

Great Matches With Delicious Homemade Lemon Rolls Recipe

• Brew a Zesty Tea Match: Steep a hot Earl Grey or chamomile tea with a hint of lemon to complement the rolls' bright citrus notes and balance their sweetness.
• Select a Creamy Beverage Partner: Pour cold milk or a smooth vanilla latte alongside the rolls to soften the tangy lemon flavor and provide a rich, velvety contrast.
• Enhance with Fresh Fruit Sides: Serve small wedges of fresh strawberries or raspberries to add a complementary fruity dimension that echoes the rolls' citrusy profile.
• Create a Breakfast Harmony: Pair with light Greek yogurt topped with honey, which adds a subtle tang and creamy texture that beautifully matches the lemon rolls' zesty character.

How To Keep Delicious Homemade Lemon Rolls Recipe Fresh

• Seal leftover lemon rolls in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Place wax paper between layers to prevent sticking.
• Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label the bag with the date to track freshness.
• Leave rolls at room temperature in a covered container for 1-2 days maximum. Avoid direct sunlight or warm areas to prevent spoiling.
• Microwave rolls for 15-20 seconds for a quick warm-up. Alternatively, warm in a preheated oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes to restore original softness and bring back that fresh-baked taste.

Common Questions About Delicious Homemade Lemon Rolls Recipe

• Are these lemon rolls difficult to make?

Not at all! These rolls are beginner-friendly and require basic baking skills. The recipe has clear steps and uses common ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.

• Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before and refrigerate it. Just let the rolls come to room temperature before baking and rising.

• How can I tell if the rolls are properly baked?

Look for a golden-brown color on top and a soft, slightly springy texture when you touch them. They should also have a lovely lemon aroma filling your kitchen.

• What if I don't have buttermilk?

No problem! You can make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to regular milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes before using.

Lemon Rolls Recipe

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4.7 from 24 reviews

• Total Time: 50-55 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Heavenly Lemon Rolls blend zesty citrus with pillowy dough, creating a sunshine-kissed pastry that dances between tangy and sweet. Promising comfort and bright morning delight, these rolls invite you to savor each luscious, lemony bite.

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Ingredients

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Lemon Rolls Ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

• 2 cups (480 milliliters) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) buttermilk
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup (60 grams) unsalted butter, softened

Sweeteners and Spices:

• 1/4 cup (50 grams) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (50 grams) brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup (120 grams) powdered sugar

Leavening and Flavoring Agents:

• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) fresh lemon juice
• 2–3 tablespoons lemon juice (for icing)
• 1/4 cup (60 grams) unsalted butter, melted (for spreading)
• Extra lemon zest for garnish

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Instructions

1. Prepare the baking environment by preheating the oven to 350°F and generously greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine flour, granulated sugar, salt, baking powder, and baking soda using a whisk to ensure even distribution.
3. Incorporate softened butter into the dry ingredient mixture, working it with your hands or a fork until the texture becomes crumbly and resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
4. Create a separate mixture by whisking buttermilk, egg, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until completely integrated.
5. Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring until just combined to maintain a tender dough consistency.
6. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and roll it out into a precise 12×8 inch rectangular shape, ensuring even thickness.
7. Brush the entire surface of the rolled dough with melted butter, then evenly distribute brown sugar and cinnamon across the rectangle.
8. Carefully roll the dough into a tight log from the longer edge, applying gentle pressure to create a compact cylinder.
9. Slice the log into 12 equal portions and arrange them in the prepared baking dish.
10. Allow the rolls to rest and slightly rise for 20 minutes, which helps develop their light and airy texture.
11. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, watching for a golden-brown coloration that indicates perfect doneness.
12. Whisk powdered sugar and lemon juice together to create a smooth, glossy icing during the baking process.
13. Remove rolls from the oven and let them cool briefly, then generously drizzle with lemon icing and sprinkle additional lemon zest for a vibrant garnish.

Notes

• Ensure butter is softened at room temperature for easier mixing and smoother dough texture.
• Use fresh lemon zest and juice for the brightest, most vibrant citrus flavor in the rolls.
• Allow dough to rest and rise in a warm, draft-free area to help rolls become light and fluffy.
• Adjust sweetness by reducing sugar in filling or icing for a less sweet version of the rolls.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 10 g
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 33 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg