Lemon Sweet Rolls with Lemon Glaze Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a bright, luscious treat that feels like sunshine on a plate, this Lemon Sweet Rolls with Lemon Glaze Recipe is exactly what you need. These rolls bring together tender, fluffy dough with a zesty lemon punch and a sweet, silky glaze that’s simply irresistible. Every bite gives you a perfect balance of tangy, buttery, and sugary notes that will brighten mornings, afternoons, or any time you feel like a fresh and flavorful indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Lemon Sweet Rolls with Lemon Glaze Recipe relies on simple, classic ingredients that come together to create magic. Each addition plays its part to give the rolls their irresistible texture, bright flavor, and heavenly aroma.

• 3 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of our dough, providing structure and softness.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the lemon.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and brings out the sweetness.
• 1 packet active dry yeast: This is how we get those soft, fluffy, perfectly risen rolls.
• 1/2 cup warm milk: Activates the yeast and keeps the dough tender.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and a melt-in-your-mouth softness.
• 2 large eggs: Help bind the dough and enrich its texture.
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest: Packs in fresh citrus aroma that wakes up your senses.
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice: Provides a lively tang that defines these sweet rolls.
• 1/4 cup heavy cream: Used in the glaze to create a luscious, smooth finish.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the glaze perfectly without any grittiness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the glaze.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for glaze): Gives the glaze an extra buttery sheen and richness.

How to Make Lemon Sweet Rolls with Lemon Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

Start by stirring together your all-purpose flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. This dry base is where the magic begins, ensuring your rolls have the perfect balance of sweetness and flavor.

Step 2: Add Yeast

Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the flour mixture and stir lightly. This yeast is the key that brings life to your dough, making it rise beautifully for that fluffy texture.

Step 3: Warm the Milk

Warm your milk until it’s just-about warm to touch (not hot!). This warmth wakes up the yeast so your dough can rise perfectly.

Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the warm milk into the dry ingredients and stir gently to combine. Then, add melted butter, eggs, fresh lemon zest, and lemon juice to start layering in that signature lemon flavor and richness.

Step 5: Form and Knead the Dough

Stir everything together until you see the dough begin to come together, then knead either in the bowl or on a floured counter for about 8 to 10 minutes. This is the step where the dough becomes smooth and elastic, setting the stage for soft, tender rolls.

Step 6: First Rise

Cover your dough with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap and place it in a warm spot for about an hour. This resting period is crucial as it allows the dough to double in size, making the rolls airy and light.

Step 7: Shape the Rolls

Once risen, punch down the dough to release any trapped air. Roll it out into a large rectangle, spread melted butter, and if you like, sprinkle some sugar and cinnamon atop for an extra cozy layer of flavor. Then roll tightly into a log and slice it into one-inch rounds.

Step 8: Second Rise

Place your rolls close together in a greased baking dish, cover again, and let them rise for 30 minutes until puffy and eager for the oven.

Step 9: Bake Away

Heat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes. They’ll turn a gorgeous golden brown, smelling like a freshly baked dream.

Step 10: Make the Glaze and Finish

While the rolls bake, whisk together your heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract for a glaze that’s irresistibly smooth and sweet. Once the rolls come out of the oven and cool slightly, drizzle this luscious glaze all over. A final touch of melted butter over the top seals the deal for a rich, shiny finish.

How to Serve Lemon Sweet Rolls with Lemon Glaze Recipe

Garnishes

For an extra pop of freshness, sprinkle some additional lemon zest or finely chopped candied lemon peel over the glazed rolls. If you love texture, toasted chopped almonds or a dusting of powdered sugar also make stunning finishes.

Side Dishes

These rolls pair beautifully with a cup of hot tea or fresh-brewed coffee for breakfast or brunch. For something more substantial, serve alongside a light fruit salad or creamy yogurt to balance their sweet and tangy flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving these rolls in a pretty bundt pan to create a lemony pull-apart centerpiece at your brunch table. Or, place individual rolls on small plates topped with whipped cream and fresh berries for a delightful dessert presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Lemon Sweet Rolls with Lemon Glaze Recipe are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them soft and tasty, just like fresh from the oven.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, freeze the rolls before glazing by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep beautifully for up to two months.

Reheating

To enjoy your rolls later, thaw them overnight in the fridge and then warm gently in the oven or microwave. For extra decadence, drizzle with fresh glaze after reheating to recapture that fresh-from-the-bakery feel.

FAQs

Can I use lemon extract instead of lemon juice and zest?

While lemon extract offers convenience, nothing quite compares to the bright freshness of real lemon zest and juice. For the best flavor in this Lemon Sweet Rolls with Lemon Glaze Recipe, I recommend sticking with fresh lemon ingredients.

Do I have to use active dry yeast?

Active dry yeast is preferred here for reliable rising and texture, but you can substitute instant yeast if needed. Just remember to adjust how you activate it: instant yeast can be mixed directly into dry ingredients without proofing.

Can I make these rolls dairy-free?

Absolutely! Swap out milk, butter, and cream for your favorite dairy-free alternatives like almond milk, coconut oil, and coconut cream. The flavor might shift slightly, but they’ll still be delicious.

Why do my rolls sometimes turn out dense?

Dense rolls often mean the dough didn’t rise enough or was over-kneaded. Make sure your yeast is fresh and your dough is allowed to double in size during the initial rise for that perfect light texture.

Can I add cinnamon to the filling?

Definitely! While not traditional in this Lemon Sweet Rolls with Lemon Glaze Recipe, a light sprinkle of cinnamon combined with sugar inside the rolls adds a warm spice note that pairs wonderfully with lemon.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Sweet Rolls with Lemon Glaze Recipe is a joyful celebration of flavors in every bite—bright, buttery, and beautifully sweet. If you’re looking to bring a little zest and sunshine into your baking, these rolls will quickly become a beloved favorite, perfect for sharing or savoring solo. So grab those lemons and get ready to fill your kitchen with an irresistible lemony aroma that only freshly baked sweet rolls can bring!

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