Lemon Rolls Recipe | Soft Sweet Rolls with Bright Lemon Filling & Glaze

Sunshine in Every Swirl

If cinnamon rolls are the cozy hug of breakfast baking, lemon rolls are the sunshine-filled embrace. Inspired by recipes from The Kitchn, Sally’s Baking Addiction, and In Bloom Bakery, these citrusy swirls offer a refreshing twist on a beloved classic. With soft, pillowy dough and a vibrant lemon sugar filling, they’re the perfect way to brighten your brunch table.

Ideal for spring gatherings, Easter celebrations, or lazy weekend mornings, lemon rolls bring a burst of flavor and elegance to any occasion. They’re sweet but not cloying, tangy yet comforting—like a bite of sunshine in every swirl. Whether you’re baking for guests or treating yourself, these rolls are guaranteed to impress and delight.

What Makes Lemon Rolls So Irresistible

Lemon rolls stand out for their light, fluffy texture and bright citrus flavor. The dough is soft and tender, enriched with butter and eggs for richness. Inside, a filling of lemon zest, sugar, and butter melts into the layers, creating a sweet-tart swirl that’s both fragrant and flavorful.

The crowning glory? A tangy lemon cream cheese frosting that adds just the right amount of richness and zing. It’s a refreshing alternative to the traditional cinnamon roll glaze, and it complements the citrus notes beautifully.

These rolls are a delightful change of pace—perfect for those who love citrus or want something lighter than cinnamon spice. They’re easy to customize, fun to make, and even more fun to eat. One bite and you’ll understand why lemon rolls are quickly becoming a brunch favorite.

Ingredient Overview

Here’s what you’ll need to make lemon rolls from scratch:

Dough:

• All-purpose flour
• Active dry or instant yeast
• Warm milk
• Eggs
• Unsalted butter
• Granulated sugar
• Salt

Filling:

• Fresh lemon zest
• Granulated sugar
• Softened butter
• Lemon pudding mix (optional, for extra flavor and moisture)

Frosting:

• Cream cheese
• Unsalted butter
• Powdered sugar
• Lemon extract or fresh lemon juice

Optional Add-Ons:

• Poppy seeds for texture and visual appeal
• Vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg for warmth

Tip: Always use fresh lemon zest and juice—it makes a huge difference in flavor. Bottled juice tends to be flat and overly acidic, while fresh citrus adds brightness and complexity.

This ingredient list is flexible—feel free to experiment with flavors and textures to suit your taste or occasion.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s a classic version adapted from Love From The Oven:

1. Make the dough: In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let sit until foamy. Add eggs, melted butter, salt, and flour. Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
2. First rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
3. Prepare the filling: Mix lemon zest, sugar, and softened butter into a spreadable paste. Optional: stir in lemon pudding mix.
4. Roll and fill: Roll out dough into a large rectangle. Spread filling evenly over the surface.
5. Shape the rolls: Roll up tightly from the long edge. Slice into 1½-inch pieces and place in a greased baking dish.
6. Second rise: Cover and let rolls rise for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
7. Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for 20–25 minutes until golden and cooked through.
8. Make the frosting: Beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and lemon juice or extract until smooth.
9. Frost and serve: Spread frosting over warm rolls. Garnish with lemon zest or poppy seeds.

Tip: Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free spot for fluffier rolls.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ons

Lemon rolls are endlessly customizable:

• Lemon poppy seed rolls: Add poppy seeds to the dough or filling and top with a vanilla glaze.
• Raspberry lemon rolls: Spread raspberry jam over the lemon filling before rolling.
• Extra indulgence: Drizzle with lemon curd or top with whipped cream for a dessert-style treat.

These variations add color, texture, and flavor—perfect for tailoring to your taste or seasonal ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

Serve lemon rolls warm, fresh from the oven, with a cup of coffee, iced tea, or sparkling lemonade. They’re a beautiful addition to brunch spreads, dessert trays, or holiday breakfasts.

For a festive touch, garnish with lemon zest, poppy seeds, or edible flowers. Pair with fresh berries or a citrus salad to round out the meal.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and gently reheated for a quick treat. These rolls are just as delightful the next day—if they last that long!