Lemon Sweet Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing

Soft, fluffy, and bursting with bright citrus flavor, these Lemon Sweet Rolls are the perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Filled with a sweet lemon-vanilla sugar and topped with homemade lemon cream cheese icing, they strike the perfect balance between sweet and tangy. Whether you’re a citrus lover or just looking for a fun twist on classic cinnamon rolls, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Key Benefits

✔ Soft & Fluffy Texture – These rolls are light, tender, and pillowy, thanks to the buttery, enriched dough.

✔ Bright & Refreshing Flavor – The combination of fresh lemon zest, vanilla, and cream cheese creates a delightful citrusy taste.

✔ Make-Ahead Friendly – You can prepare the dough the night before and bake fresh in the morning.

✔ Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether for a weekend brunch, a holiday breakfast, or just a sweet treat, these rolls are always a hit.

Taste & Texture

These lemon sweet rolls are light and fluffy, with a buttery dough that melts in your mouth. The lemon-vanilla sugar filling creates a sweet, tangy, and slightly caramelized center, while the smooth and creamy lemon cream cheese icing adds richness.

Dietary Attributes

✔ Vegetarian

✔ No artificial flavors or preservatives

✔ Can be made nut-free

Ingredients & Substitutions

Ingredient List

For the dough:

• ¾ cup (180g) milk, at room temperature
• 2 tablespoons (30g) butter, melted
• 1 egg, at room temperature
• 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons (5g) instant yeast
• 2 tablespoons (40g) granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon (3g) salt
• Vegetable oil for greasing

For the lemon sugar filling:

• ¼ cup (60g) butter, softened
• ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons lemon zest (from approximately 3 lemons), divided
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the cream cheese icing:

• ½ cup cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest (optional, for topping)

Notes on Quality

• Use fresh lemon zest for the best citrus flavor. Organic lemons are ideal since their peel is free from waxes and pesticides.
• Room temperature ingredients are crucial for a soft and airy dough.

Possible Substitutions

• Swap lemon for orange to create Orange Sweet Rolls with the same bright citrusy flavor.
• Use plant-based butter and milk to make this dairy-free.
• Try a different sweetener, like coconut sugar, for a deeper caramel flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Dough

1. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together milk, melted butter, and egg until smooth.
2. In a separate large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, yeast, sugar, and salt until evenly combined.
3. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir with a spatula until no dry flour remains. Scrape the sides of the bowl.
4. Transfer the dough onto a clean surface and knead for 5 minutes until it forms a soft and smooth dough ball.

Proof the Dough (First Rise)

5. Place the dough in a lightly greased mixing bowl. Coat the top with a thin layer of vegetable oil to prevent drying. Cover and let rise at room temperature for 1 hour, or refrigerate overnight.

Shape the Lemon Rolls (Second Rise)

6. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and roll it into a 20×14-inch rectangle.
7. Spread softened butter evenly over the dough.
8. In a small bowl, mix sugar, 2 tablespoons lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the buttered dough.
9. Roll the dough into a tight log and pinch the edges to seal.
10. Cut into 12 even pieces, each about 1.5 inches wide, and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
11. Cover and let the rolls rise again for 1 hour, until doubled in size.

Bake the Lemon Rolls

12. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
13. Sprinkle the remaining 1 tablespoon of lemon zest over the rolls.
14. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown. If the tops brown too quickly, cover loosely with aluminum foil.
15. Let the rolls cool in the pan for 10 minutes before icing.

Make the Cream Cheese Icing

16. In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
17. Add confectioners’ sugar and lemon juice. Mix until creamy.
18. Spread the icing over warm rolls. Sprinkle with extra lemon zest if desired.

Expert Tips & Tricks

Best Practices

• Use fresh yeast for the best rise. Old yeast may not activate properly.
• Let the dough rise in a warm place. If your kitchen is cold, place the bowl inside an oven with the light on.
• Don’t overbake—check at 20 minutes to ensure the rolls stay soft.

Common Mistakes

• Adding too much flour will make the rolls dense. Stick to the measurements and knead just until smooth.
• Skipping the second rise can result in tough rolls. Be patient for the best texture.

Time-Saving Tips

• Prepare the dough the night before and let it rise overnight in the fridge.
• Use a stand mixer with a dough hook for easier kneading.

Serving Suggestions

Pairings

• Serve with fresh berries for a refreshing contrast.
• Pair with heart-shaped grilled cheese sandwiches for a sweet-and-savory breakfast twist. Try this recipe.
• Enjoy alongside classic French toast for an indulgent brunch. Get the recipe here.

Presentation Ideas

• Garnish with extra lemon zest and a dusting of confectioners’ sugar.
• Serve on a rustic wooden platter for a cozy, homemade feel.

Beverage Pairings

• Freshly brewed Earl Grey tea enhances the citrusy notes.
• Homemade lemonade for an extra lemon kick.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Storage

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to a week for extended freshness.

Reheating Methods

• Microwave: Warm for 30-60 seconds for a soft texture.
• Oven: Reheat at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Substitutions & Adjustments

• Can I use active dry yeast? Yes, but activate it in warm milk first before mixing.
• Can I freeze the dough? Yes, freeze after shaping, then let thaw and rise before baking.

Troubleshooting

• Dough too sticky? Add 1 tablespoon of flour at a time until manageable.
• Rolls too dry? Reduce baking time slightly and cover while cooling.

For more delicious breakfast ideas, check out this French omelette recipe.

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