If you love cinnamon rolls but crave something lighter and more refreshing, these Lemon Rolls are the perfect treat! Fluffy, buttery dough swirled with a bright and tangy lemon-sugar filling, then topped with a luscious lemon glaze—every bite is a burst of sunshine.

These rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an indulgent snack. Unlike traditional cinnamon rolls, these have no heavy spices—just pure citrusy goodness. Whether you’re making them for a weekend treat or a special occasion, these homemade lemon rolls will steal the show!

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Ingredients

For the Dough

• 500 g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
• 7 g (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
• 50 g (¼ cup) granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 180 ml (¾ cup) warm milk (about 43°C / 110°F)
• 60 g (¼ cup) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg

For the Lemon Filling

• 100 g (½ cup) granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoon lemon zest
• 50 g (¼ cup) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

For the Lemon Glaze

• 120 g (1 cup) powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon milk (optional, for thinner glaze)

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Instructions

Step 1: Make the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
2. Add warm milk, melted butter, and the egg. Stir until the dough starts to come together.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. (You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook.)
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Filling

1. In a small bowl, mix sugar and lemon zest, rubbing them together with your fingers to release the lemon oils.
2. Stir in the softened butter and lemon juice until well combined.

Step 3: Roll and Fill

1. Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a 40x30 cm (16x12 inch) rectangle.
2. Spread the lemon filling evenly over the dough.
3. Roll the dough tightly from the long side into a log and cut it into 12 even rolls.
4. Arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish. Cover and let them rise again for 30–45 minutes.

Step 4: Bake

1. Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F).
2. Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.
3. Let them cool slightly before glazing.

Step 5: Make the Lemon Glaze & Serve

1. In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and milk until smooth.
2. Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls.
3. Enjoy your fluffy, citrusy lemon rolls!

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Nutrition Information (Per Roll, Approximate)

• Calories: 280 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 8g
• Sugar: 20g
• Fiber: 1g

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Tips & Tricks for the Best Lemon Rolls

• Use fresh lemons for the best flavor—zest and juice make a huge difference.
• Rub the zest with sugar to release essential oils and intensify the lemon aroma.
• For extra softness, add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch to the dough—it makes the rolls more tender.
• Chill the dough overnight for an even deeper flavor and easier rolling.
• Add cream cheese to the glaze for a richer, tangy topping.

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Why You’ll Love These Lemon Rolls

✔ Soft, fluffy, and packed with lemon flavor
✔ Perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess
✔ Great alternative to cinnamon rolls
✔ Easy to make ahead for breakfast or brunch