Description

Soft, fluffy lemon sweet rolls filled with zesty lemon sugar and topped with a tangy lemon glaze. A refreshing twist on classic cinnamon rolls, perfect for brunch or special occasions.

Ingredients

2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour

1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup warm milk (110°F)

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream

1 large egg

1/2 cup granulated sugar (for filling)

2 tablespoons lemon zest (from 2 lemons)

3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (for filling)

1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)

2–3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

1 teaspoon lemon zest (for glaze)

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Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5–10 minutes until the mixture is foamy.
Stir in the melted butter, yogurt, egg, and salt. Gradually mix in the flour until a soft dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place it in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Prepare the filling by combining sugar and lemon zest in a bowl, mashing it with a fork to release the oils.
Roll out the dough into a 12x16-inch rectangle. Spread the softened butter over the dough and evenly sprinkle the lemon sugar on top.
Roll the dough tightly from the long edge and slice into 12 even pieces.
Place the rolls in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, cover, and let them rise for 30–40 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 22–25 minutes, or until lightly golden on top.
While baking, whisk together the glaze ingredients in a small bowl.
Once the rolls are out of the oven and slightly cooled, drizzle with the lemon glaze and serve warm.

Notes

Add cream cheese to the glaze for a tangier flavor.

Swap in orange or lime zest for a citrus variation.

Make ahead: refrigerate unbaked rolls overnight, then let rise 30–45 minutes before baking.

Store at room temp for 2 days or in fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat before serving.

Freeze unglazed rolls and add glaze after reheating.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 roll
Calories: 310
Sugar: 21g
Sodium: 105mg
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 35mg