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Lemon Rolls

Delightful Lemon Rolls with a Gooey Citrus Twist

These Lemon Rolls are fluffy, with gooey lemon centers, perfect for a delightful breakfast or brunch.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 32 minutes
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 12 rolls
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 4 cups All-Purpose Flour May need additional flour based on humidity and dough consistency.
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons Instant Dry Yeast Make sure to use instant yeast for best results.
  • 1 tablespoon Poppy Seeds Can be omitted if desired.
  • 1 teaspoon Fine Salt
  • 1 cup Buttermilk Milk or yogurt can be used as a substitute, but may alter flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Use room temperature for easy mixing.
  • 2 large Large Eggs Ensure they are at room temperature for better incorporation.
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Zest Incorporate freshly grated zest for best results.
For the Filling
  • 1/2 cup Lemon Roll Filling A flavorful mix of sugars and butter that creates a gooey center.
For the Icing
  • 2 cups Powdered Sugar Used in the lemon icing for a smooth texture.
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice Adds tanginess to the icing.
For Garnish
  • 1 tablespoon Additional Topping Fresh lemon zest for a vibrant garnish.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowls
  • Whisk
  • Wooden spoon
  • Rolling Pin
  • Oven
  • 9x13-inch baking pan

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Lemon Rolls
  1. Preheat your oven to 200°F (95°C). Gather ingredients and mixing bowls.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, instant dry yeast, optional poppy seeds, and fine salt.
  3. In another bowl, combine buttermilk, sugar, and butter. Microwave for about 30 seconds until butter melts slightly.
  4. Pour the warm buttermilk mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined.
  5. Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Fold in lemon zest evenly.
  6. Add additional flour until the dough becomes elastic and pulls away from the bowl. Knead for 5-7 minutes.
  7. Cover dough with a towel and let it rest in a warm spot for 10–20 minutes.
  8. Mix sugars and lemon zest in a bowl for the filling. Combine with softened butter.
  9. Roll the dough out into a rectangle measuring approximately 12x18 inches. Spread filling evenly.
  10. Roll the dough tightly into a log and slice into 12 pieces. Place in a greased pan.
  11. Cover with aluminum foil and place in warm oven for about 30 minutes.
  12. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 28–32 minutes until golden brown.
  13. Whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and melted butter for the icing.
  14. Drizzle icing generously over warm rolls and sprinkle with fresh lemon zest before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1rollCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 4gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 140mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Ensure yeast activates properly by using warm, not hot, liquids. Properly knead the dough for best texture.

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