Zingy Lemon Rolls Recipe: Bright Morning Joy in Every Bite

Soft, pillowy dough meets zesty lemon rolls in a tantalizing dance of flavors that will brighten any morning.

These citrusy delights promise a burst of sunshine with every tender bite.

Warm from the oven, the rolls release an intoxicating aroma that draws you closer with each passing moment.

Delicate swirls of lemon-infused filling weave through the golden dough, creating a perfect balance of sweet and tart.

Fresh lemons add a vibrant punch that makes these rolls stand out from ordinary breakfast treats.

The glaze drizzled on top adds a final touch of decadence that turns a simple pastry into a memorable experience.

You’ll fall in love with this simple yet extraordinary recipe that transforms breakfast into a celebration of flavor.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 15-25 minutes

Total Time: 2 hours 55 minutes (including Rising Time)

Calories: 320 kcal

Servings: 13

Lemon Rolls Ingredient Checklist

• Yeast: Magical rising agent that helps dough expand and develop soft, airy texture; choose fresh, unexpired yeast for best results.
• Warm Water: Activates yeast and creates perfect environment for dough development; use water around 110°F for optimal yeast performance.
• Lemon Cake Mix: Provides sweet lemon flavor and helps bind ingredients; select high-quality mix for robust taste.
• Salt: Enhances overall flavor and controls yeast growth; use fine table salt for even distribution.
• Flour: Structural foundation of rolls; choose all-purpose flour for consistent texture.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds subtle depth and rounds out flavor profile; opt for pure extract over artificial versions.

• White Sugar: Brings sweetness and helps caramelize roll surfaces; use granulated sugar for smooth incorporation.
• Lemon Zest: Delivers bright, intense citrus notes; select fresh, organic lemons for maximum flavor.
• Lemon Flavor Instant Pudding Mix: Intensifies lemon taste and provides creamy filling; choose reliable brand for consistent results.
• Softened Butter: Creates rich, tender texture and helps spread filling; use room temperature butter for easy spreading.

• Cream Cheese: Provides creamy, tangy base for frosting; select full-fat variety for richest flavor.
• Butter: Adds richness and smooth consistency; use unsalted butter for better control of sweetness.
• Lemon Extract: Boosts citrus intensity in frosting; choose high-quality, pure extract.
• Confectioners' Sugar: Creates smooth, spreadable frosting; sift to prevent lumps.
• Milk: Adjusts frosting consistency; use whole milk for creamiest result.
• Non-Stick Cooking Spray: Ensures easy roll removal; choose neutral-flavored spray.

Equipment Needed for Lemon Rolls Success

• Large Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining dough ingredients and mixing filling.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precise measurements for ingredients are crucial.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Perfect for stirring and mixing dough and ingredients.
• Rolling Pin: Helps roll out dough into an even rectangle.
• 13×9 Inch Baking Pan: Needed for baking and shaping rolls.
• Electric Mixer: Great for creating smooth, fluffy frosting.
• Sharp Knife: Used for slicing rolled dough into even pieces.
• Zester or Grater: Helps create fine lemon zest for filling.
• Pastry Brush: Useful for spreading softened butter on rolled dough.

Lemon Rolls Prep Instructions

• Dough Foundation

Activate yeast in warm water, creating a bubbly base. Blend lemon cake mix, flour, and salt into the liquid. Incorporate vanilla for a subtle flavor boost. Knead until smooth and elastic.

• First Growth Stage

Wrap dough in a cozy cloth, allowing it to expand and develop character. After an hour, gently deflate and let it rise again, building depth and complexity.

• Flavor Landscape

Divide dough into two sections. Stretch each piece into a thin rectangle. Brush generously with softened butter. Sprinkle a magical mixture of sugar, lemon zest, and pudding mix across the surface.

• Roll Crafting

Carefully roll the dough into a soft log. Slice into delicate rounds. Nestle these spirals into prepared baking pans, giving them space to breathe.

• Final Transformation

Let rolls puff up and become pillowy. Bake in a warm oven until golden and fragrant.

• Creamy Crowning

Whip cream cheese and butter into a silky dream. Fold in powdered sugar and lemon extract. Drizzle or spread this luxurious topping over warm rolls.

• Serving and Storage

Enjoy immediately or cool completely. Refrigerate to preserve their delicate texture and bright flavor.

Expert Tips for Lemon Rolls

• Boost the citrusy punch by adding extra lemon zest to both the filling and frosting for a more intense lemon experience.
• Ensure your yeast is fresh and water is lukewarm to guarantee soft, fluffy rolls that rise beautifully every time.
• Swap lemon pudding mix with vanilla or experiment with adding finely chopped nuts or dried lemon peel for extra crunch and complexity.
• Prepare the rolls up to the second rise, then cover and refrigerate overnight. Remove from refrigerator 30 minutes before baking to bring to room temperature.
• Use a gluten-free cake mix and flour blend to make these rolls accessible for those with dietary restrictions without compromising taste.

Serving Lemon Rolls the Tasty Way

• Zesty Brunch Companion: Pair these lemon rolls with a fresh mixed berry salad for a bright morning meal that balances the sweet, tangy pastry.
• Afternoon Tea Delight: Serve these rolls alongside a chilled glass of lavender lemonade or hot Earl Grey tea for an elegant mid-day treat that elevates the entire dessert experience.
• Dessert Presentation Magic: Create a stunning dessert plate by garnishing the frosted rolls with thin lemon slices, fresh mint leaves, and a light dusting of powdered sugar to add visual appeal and extra flavor dimension.
• Weekend Gathering Centerpiece: Arrange the rolls on a beautiful wooden board with small dishes of additional lemon zest and fresh berries, making them a stunning centerpiece that invites guests to enjoy a slice of homemade comfort.

Lemon Rolls: Storage and Future Serving Tips

• Fridge Fresh Delight: Store these zesty rolls in an airtight container inside the refrigerator, where they'll stay tasty for 3-4 days. The cool environment helps maintain their soft texture and prevents quick spoiling.
• Quick Freezing Magic: Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in freezer-safe bags. These lemony treats can freeze beautifully for up to 2 months, offering a delicious grab-and-go breakfast or snack option.
• Reheating Brilliance: Warm refrigerated rolls in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes. This method restores their just-baked warmth and soft, tender texture.
• Smart Portion Control: Separate rolls into single servings before storing, allowing easy defrosting and preventing unnecessary waste. Each roll can be enjoyed individually without compromising the entire batch's quality.

Tangy Lemon Rolls Recipe

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4.7 from 11 reviews

• Total Time: 2 hours 55 minutes (including Rising Time)
• Yield: 13 1x

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Description

Homemade lemon rolls showcase citrus-infused dough rolled with zesty filling and topped with tangy cream cheese glaze. Sweet and tart flavors blend perfectly, offering pure comfort for anyone craving a delightful breakfast pastry.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 ½ cups (591 mL) very warm water
• 5 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 box lemon cake mix
• 2 pkg rapid rise dry yeast
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup (227 g) butter, softened
• 1 cup (200 g) white sugar
• 1 pkg lemon flavor instant pudding mix
• Zest from 1 lemon
• 1 pkg (8 oz/226 g) Philadelphia cream cheese, softened
• 3 ½ – 4 cups (402–460 g) confectioners’ sugar
• ¼ cup (½ stick/57 g) butter, softened
• 2 tsp pure lemon extract
• 3–5 tbsps (45–75 mL) milk

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Instructions

1. Dough Preparation: Awaken yeast in warm water until frothy. Blend lemon cake mix, salt, flour, and vanilla extract into a unified dough, kneading gently until smooth and elastic.
2. First Rise: Shield dough in a covered vessel, allowing it to expand and develop. Once doubled, gently deflate and permit a second proofing phase.
3. Dough Shaping: Partition dough into two portions. Roll each section into a thin rectangular canvas, approximately 1/4 inch thick, on a lightly floured surface.
4. Filling Creation: Lavish softened butter across dough’s surface. Combine white sugar, lemon zest, and instant pudding mix to craft a fragrant, zesty filling.
5. Rolling Technique: Distribute sugar-zest mixture evenly over buttered dough. Tightly roll from the distant edge toward yourself, forming a compact cylindrical log.
6. Portioning and Placement: Slice rolled dough into 12 consistent segments. Arrange pinwheels in a non-stick sprayed baking pan, repeating with remaining dough.
7. Final Proofing: Allow rolls to expand, becoming puffy and voluminous before baking.
8. Baking Process: Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake until rolls achieve a golden-brown hue, roughly 15-25 minutes.
9. Frosting Preparation: Whip cream cheese, butter, and lemon extract into a silky mixture. Gradually incorporate confectioners’ sugar, adjusting consistency with milk as needed.
10. Finishing Touch: Drape warm rolls with frosting, or for a more defined layer, allow cooling before application. Refrigerate any remaining rolls to preserve their delicate essence.

Notes

• Yeast Activation Tip: Ensure water temperature is between 100-110°F for optimal yeast performance, preventing potential dough failure.
• Dough Proofing Secret: Let dough rise in a warm, draft-free area to achieve maximum volume and soft, pillowy texture.
• Rolling Technique: Use a light touch when stretching dough to prevent tearing and maintain delicate, even thickness.
• Frosting Consistency Hack: Add milk gradually to create a spreadable frosting that complements the lemon rolls’ delicate flavor profile.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-25 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 13
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 25 g
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg