Description
Brighten up your mornings with these homemade Lemon Rolls—a sweet and zesty twist on classic cinnamon rolls. Made with fluffy, buttery dough, a vibrant lemon-sugar filling, and a silky cream cheese lemon frosting, they’re the ultimate feel-good treat for any time of year. This easy recipe makes for a perfect quick breakfast, weekend brunch idea, or indulgent afternoon snack. If you’re looking for breakfast ideas, easy recipes, or something to impress at a gathering, these rolls deliver comfort, sunshine, and a whole lot of flavor. Prepare to fall in love with their tender layers and fresh citrus aroma!
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
- ½ tsp salt
- ¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F/43°C)
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Lemon Sugar Filling:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
For the Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: Mix warm milk, a pinch of sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 mins until foamy.
- Make Dough: In a stand mixer bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Add yeast mixture, eggs, and melted butter. Knead until smooth.
- First Rise: Transfer dough to a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–1½ hours until doubled.
- Prepare Filling: Mix softened butter, sugar, lemon zest, and juice to form a paste.
- Roll Dough: Roll into a 16×12 inch rectangle. Spread filling evenly.
- Shape Rolls: Roll tightly from the long side. Slice into 12 rolls.
- Second Rise: Place in greased 9×13-inch dish. Let rise 30–45 mins or until puffy.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls 22–26 mins until golden.
- Make Frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add sugar, lemon zest, juice, and salt. Mix until creamy.
- Frost & Serve: Spread frosting on warm rolls. Garnish with extra zest if desired. Serve and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes