Directions to follow
Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Allow to sit for 5 minutes until it becomes foamy. Then, add melted butter, the egg, and salt. Gradually incorporate the flour, kneading until the dough feels soft and slightly sticky (about 5–7 minutes).
Let the dough rise: Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and place in a warm area. Let it rise for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Make the filling: While the dough rises, mix the softened butter, sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice in a separate bowl until smooth and creamy.
Roll and fill: On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a 12×18-inch rectangle. Evenly spread the lemon filling over the dough.
Shape the rolls: Starting from the long end of the rectangle, tightly roll the dough into a log. Slice into 12 equal rolls and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Second rise: Cover the rolls and let them rise for about 30 minutes or until they’ve puffed up nicely.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes or until they turn a gorgeous golden brown.
Prepare the glaze: In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and zest until smooth.
Glaze and serve: Drizzle the lemon glaze over warm rolls and enjoy every delightful bite!
Best ways to enjoy it
Lusciously Soft Lemon Rolls aren’t just a pleasing visual treat; they can be enjoyed in several ways. Serve them warm straight out of the oven or allow them to cool before serving. Pair them with a dollop of whipped cream or a spread of cream cheese for an extra layer of deliciousness. They also make for delightful gifts wrapped in parchment paper tied with kitchen twine.
Keeping leftovers fresh
To store your lemon rolls, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat them, just thaw at room temperature and warm them in the oven for a few minutes.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your lemon rolls turn out perfectly:
- Proofing the yeast: Make sure your milk is warm but not hot—too much heat can kill the yeast, preventing your rolls from rising properly.
- Kneading: Don’t skip the kneading! Proper kneading develops gluten, giving your rolls that delightful soft texture.
- Variations: Feel free to experiment with the filling by adding poppy seeds or using orange zest for a citrus twist.
Creative twists
While this recipe shines on its own, there’s plenty of room for creativity! Consider incorporating a swirl of cinnamon with the lemon filling for a unique flavor mashup. You could also substitute half the flour with whole wheat flour for a slightly nutty taste, or add in some blueberries for a fruity burst.
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare these lemon rolls?
- Including rising times, expect the preparation to take about 3 hours from start to finish.
Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
- Absolutely! Just activate it in warm milk before mixing it with other ingredients.
How do I make these rolls vegan-friendly?
- Substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) and use plant-based butter and milk.
What’s the secret to a perfect glaze?
- The key is to whisk in the lemon juice gradually until you achieve a drizzle-able consistency, avoiding lumps.
Now, roll up your sleeves and get ready to create these delightful Lusciously Soft Lemon Rolls! Your friends and family are going to love you for it!
