Lemon Rolls – Easy Citrus Dessert Recipe
Bright, fluffy lemon rolls with a sweet glaze make the perfect citrus dessert recipe. Easy to bake, full of fresh lemon flavor, and ideal for brunch or a sweet treat.
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Stand mixer or whisk
- Rolling Pin
- Baking dish
- Oven
Ingredients
For Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk
- ¼ cup sugar
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp salt
For Filling:
- ½ cup softened butter
- 1 cup sugar
- Zest of 2 lemons
For Frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup butter, softened
- 1½ cups powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Mix warm milk, yeast, and sugar; let sit until foamy.
- Add melted butter, eggs, flour, and salt. Knead until smooth. Let rise until doubled (1–1½ hours).
- Roll dough into a rectangle. Spread butter, sprinkle lemon sugar evenly.
- Roll tightly into a log; slice into 12 rolls. Place in greased baking dish. Let rise again until puffy.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden.
- Beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Frost warm rolls and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon zest for maximum flavor.
- Don’t overbake—remove when golden for soft rolls.
- Frost while warm so it melts into the swirls.
- Rolls can be prepped the night before and baked fresh in the morning.
- Variations: add blueberries, poppy seeds, or drizzle with lemon glaze instead of frosting.