As the sun peeks through the kitchen window, the air fills with the invigorating scent of fresh lemons and warm dough. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Fluffy Lemon Rolls with Gooey Centers–the perfect morning indulgence that effortlessly elevates your breakfast or brunch game. These lovely lemon rolls not only bring a refreshing twist to your table, but they’re also surprisingly easy to whip up in just 90 minutes! With a soft, fluffy texture and that delightful gooey center, they’re sure to transport you straight to a sunny afternoon, no matter the season. Plus, they’re a crowd-pleaser that’s great for sharing with family and friends. Are you ready to get rolling with this tangy treat? Let’s dive into the recipe! Why Are These Lemon Rolls So Irresistible? Simplicity at Its Best: The easy-to-follow process means anyone can create these delightful rolls without any prior baking experience. Bursting with Flavor: The combination of fresh lemon zest and gooey centers creates a refreshing flavor that’s hard to resist—perfect for summer gatherings or cozy breakfasts. Crowd-Pleasing Delight: These rolls are an instant hit; serve them with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a delightful treat that everyone will love, just like my Lemon Blueberry Bundt. Versatile Variations: Get creative! Add orange zest for a zesty twist or even cream cheese to the filling for a richer flavor. Make-Ahead Magic: You can prepare these rolls the night before, making it super convenient for busy mornings while ensuring fresh-baked bliss at your fingertips! Lemon Rolls Ingredients These ingredients will bring your Lemon Rolls to life! For the Dough • All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and texture; can substitute with bread flour for chewier rolls. • Instant Dry Yeast – Helps the dough rise quickly; don’t replace with active dry yeast without activation. • Fine Salt – Enhances flavor beautifully. • Buttermilk – Adds moisture and a slight tang; substitute with milk mixed with a splash of vinegar. • Granulated Sugar – Sweetens both dough and filling. • Unsalted Butter – Adds richness; ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing. • Large Eggs – Binds the ingredients together; bring to room temperature for best results. • Fresh Lemon Zest – Infuses bright citrus flavor; zest from 2 large lemons works perfectly. For the Filling • Brown Sugar – Provides moisture and depth of flavor to the filling. For the Icing • Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and a smooth texture for the icing. • Fresh Lemon Juice – Brightens the icing with acidity. • Melted Butter – Ensures the icing mixes well and pours smoothly. • Additional Fresh Lemon Zest – Adds aroma and visual appeal for topping. Optional Add-ins • Poppy Seeds – Adds optional texture and flavor that pairs well with lemon. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Lemon Rolls Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Dry Ingredients Begin by preheating your oven to 200°F (95°C) to create a warm environment for rising later. In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of instant dry yeast, 1 tablespoon of poppy seeds (if desired), and 1 teaspoon of fine salt. Whisk them together until evenly mixed, creating a solid foundation for your lemon rolls. Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients In a separate microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 cup of buttermilk, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup of unsalted butter. Heat in the microwave for about 30–45 seconds until warm but not boiling. Stir the mixture until the butter is fully melted, ensuring the warmth activates the yeast effectively for your dough. Step 3: Form the Dough Pour the warm buttermilk mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir gently to combine before adding 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing until a sticky dough begins to form. Add the zest of 2 fresh lemons to infuse your lemon rolls with that refreshing citrus flavor. If necessary, gradually sprinkle in additional flour until the dough is tacky but not overly sticky. Step 4: Allow the Dough to Rest Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for about 10-20 minutes. This resting period will help the gluten relax, making it easier to roll out later, while also allowing the yeast to become active, ensuring your lemon rolls will be light and fluffy. Step 5: Prepare the Filling Meanwhile, in a small bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of brown sugar and the zest of 1 additional lemon until fragrant. Soften 1/4 cup of unsalted butter and mix it with the sugar and zest until well combined, creating a sweet and aromatic filling for your lemon rolls. Step 6: Roll Out the Dough On a clean, lightly floured surface, roll out the rested dough into a rectangle measuring 12×18 inches. Ensure it’s evenly rolled to about 1/4 inch thick for perfect baking. Evenly spread the lemon-sugar filling across the dough, leaving a small border around the edges for easier rolling. Step 7: Roll and Slice the Dough Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log shape. Using unflavored dental floss, cut the log into 12 even pieces, which will keep the rolls round and beautifully shaped. Place the slices in a greased 9×13-inch pan, leaving space for them to rise. Step 8: Let the Rolls Rise Tightly cover the pan with foil and place it in the turned-off oven for about 30 minutes. This gentle, warm environment will help your lemon rolls rise, giving them that lovely fluffy texture we all adore. Step 9: Bake the Rolls After the rising time, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Once heated, remove the foil and bake the rolls for 28-32 minutes or until golden brown on top. Watch for a light golden hue as an indicator that they’re perfectly baked and ready to melt in your mouth. Step 10: Prepare the Icing While the lemon rolls are cooling slightly, make the icing by whisking together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons of melted butter in a medium bowl until smooth. This sweet, tangy topping will add the finishing touch to your festive lemon rolls. Step 11: Ice and Serve Once the rolls have cooled for about 5 minutes, generously drizzle the lemon icing over the top, ensuring each roll is well-coated. For that extra burst of flavor, sprinkle with additional fresh lemon zest before serving warm, and enjoy the delightful citrus goodness of your homemade lemon rolls! Lemon Rolls Ideas for Everyone Feel free to explore the many ways you can customize your lemon rolls for a delightful twist with every bite! Cream Cheese Filling: Add a layer of softened cream cheese to the filling for a luxurious, creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with the tart lemon. It’s a delicious upgrade that feels indulgent! Orange Zest: Swap out or combine fresh lemon zest with orange zest for a fruity twist that brings a new level of brightness to the rolls, perfect for those who enjoy variety in their flavors. Dairy-Free Option: Replace buttermilk with almond milk mixed with a splash of vinegar, and use dairy-free butter to keep it rich and creamy without the dairy. You won’t miss a beat! Nutty Addition: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the filling for a delightful crunch that complements the softness of the rolls, making each bite a symphony of textures. Reduced Sugar Icing: For a lighter touch, use less powdered sugar in the icing. The tangy lemon juice will still provide enough flavor, keeping your rolls delightful without the sweetness overload. Extra Lemon Icing: If you can’t get enough of that zesty goodness, feel free to add more lemon juice or zest to your icing for a bold punch that truly highlights the lemon flavor in every roll. Spice It Up: Customize with a sprinkle of cinnamon in the filling for a warm, cozy twist that balances beautifully with the lemon’s brightness. This unexpected element will surprise your taste buds! Mini Lemon Rolls: Roll the dough into smaller, bite-sized portions for delightful mini lemon rolls that are perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat on the go. Pair beautifully with a cup of tea, just like my Lemon Strawberry Cheesecake. Expert Tips for Lemon Rolls • Warm Buttermilk: Ensure your buttermilk is warm (not hot) for activating the yeast; a thermometer can prevent mishaps. • Perfectly Cut Rolls: Use unflavored dental floss for a clean cut when slicing rolls, avoiding squished or uneven pieces. • Adjust Flour Gradually: Flour amounts can vary; add it gradually to maintain the ideal tacky texture for the dough without densifying your lemon rolls. • Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the rolls during baking—oven temperatures can fluctuate, so check for golden brown tops to avoid over-baking. • Cool Before Icing: Allow the lemon rolls to cool slightly before icing to ensure the glaze sets properly and doesn’t melt away. • Prep Ahead: Consider making the rolls the night before for an easy breakfast; simply refrigerate the rolls after shaping, and bake in the morning. What to Serve with Fluffy Lemon Rolls with Gooey Centers Imagine a delightful brunch spread, where the tangy sweetness of lemon rolls dances on your palate, inviting you to savor every bite. Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of berries and citrus fruits balances the sweetness of the rolls while adding a refreshing crunch. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy, buttery scrambled eggs provide a savory counterpart to the sweet lemon rolls, creating a satisfying breakfast combo. Pairing these adds a hearty element to your spread. Yogurt Parfait: Layering tangy yogurt with granola and fresh fruit complements the rolls beautifully, adding creamy and crunchy textures to your meal. Iced Tea or Lemonade: A glass of herbal iced tea or homemade lemonade offers a refreshing drink option that complements the citrus notes of the lemon rolls. Maple Bacon or Sausage: The savory richness of crispy bacon or sausage links adds depth, providing a delightful contrast to the sweet and tangy rolls. Coffee or Tea: A steaming cup of coffee or a fragrant herbal tea enhances the entire experience, making your breakfast feel cozy and special. Consider a lemon-infused tea for an extra touch! Make Ahead Options These Lemon Rolls are a fantastic choice for those busy mornings when time is of the essence! You can prepare the dough and fill the rolls up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe through the rising stage, then cover the pan and refrigerate it overnight. To maintain their fluffy texture, let the rolls sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. If you want to prep earlier, you can freeze the rolled and cut pieces for up to 3 days; just ensure they’re well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. When ready to bake, no need to thaw—just add an extra few minutes in the oven for perfectly warm, gooey Lemon Rolls that taste freshly made! How to Store and Freeze Lemon Rolls Room Temperature: Keep leftover lemon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This helps maintain their soft, fluffy texture. Fridge: For longer freshness, store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container, ensuring they don’t dry out. Freezer: Freeze individual lemon rolls after baking by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer. Reheating: Reheat frozen rolls in the microwave for about 30 seconds or in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, ensuring they’re warmed through. Lemon Rolls Recipe FAQs What is the best way to select ripe lemons for the Lemon Rolls? Absolutely! Look for lemons that are firm, heavy for their size, and have smooth, bright yellow skin. Avoid any lemons with dark spots or wrinkled skin, as they may be overripe or dry. Fresh lemons will provide the zest and juice needed for that vibrant flavor in your rolls. How should I store leftover Lemon Rolls? To keep your lemon rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Just make sure they’re well sealed so they don’t dry out. Can I freeze leftover Lemon Rolls, and if so, how? The more the merrier! You can freeze lemon rolls by wrapping each one tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply microwave a frozen roll for about 30 seconds or pop it into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise? Don’t worry—this can happen! First, check that your yeast is fresh and active. If the dough hasn’t risen after resting for 20 minutes, try moving it to a warmer spot, such as near a preheating oven. If it still doesn’t budge, make a new batch by gently dissolving fresh yeast in warm water (not boiling) before adding it to your dry ingredients. Are these Lemon Rolls suitable for allergies or dietary restrictions? Very much so! While this recipe contains common allergens like eggs and dairy, substitutions can be made for a more allergy-friendly version. Replace buttermilk with a dairy-free alternative, such as almond milk with a splash of lemon juice to mimic the tang. Additionally, using egg substitutes like flaxseed meal can help make these rolls suitable for those avoiding eggs. Can I make these rolls ahead of time? Absolutely! Preparing the rolls the night before is a fantastic way to enjoy fresh-baked rolls in the morning. After shaping the rolls, place them in a greased baking dish, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. In the morning, simply bring them to room temperature and bake as instructed for delicious, warm lemon rolls right out of the oven. Lemon Rolls That Melt in Your Mouth: A Citrus Delight These Lemon Rolls with Gooey Centers are a delightful breakfast treat that’s easy to make and full of fresh lemon flavor. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 32 minutes minsResting Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins Servings: 12 rollsCourse: BreakfastCuisine: AmericanCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Dough4 cups All-Purpose Flour Can substitute with bread flour for chewier rolls.2 teaspoons Instant Dry Yeast Don't replace with active dry yeast without activation.1 teaspoon Fine Salt Enhances flavor beautifully.1 cup Buttermilk Can substitute with milk mixed with a splash of vinegar.1/2 cup Granulated Sugar Sweetens both dough and filling.1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.2 large Eggs Bring to room temperature for best results.Zest of 2 Fresh Lemons Infuses bright citrus flavor.For the Filling1/2 cup Brown Sugar Provides moisture and depth of flavor to the filling.For the Icing1 cup Powdered Sugar Adds sweetness and a smooth texture for the icing.2 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice Brightens the icing with acidity.2 tablespoons Melted Butter Ensures the icing mixes well and pours smoothly.Zest of 1 Additional Fresh Lemon Adds aroma and visual appeal for topping.Optional Add-ins1 tablespoon Poppy Seeds Adds optional texture and flavor that pairs well with lemon. Equipment Mixing bowlWhiskMicrowave-safe bowlRolling Pin9x13-inch panovendental floss Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Lemon RollsPreheat your oven to 200°F (95°C) and combine the dry ingredients.Mix the wet ingredients in a microwave-safe bowl and stir until melted.Combine wet and dry ingredients, then add eggs and lemon zest.Cover dough and let it rest for about 10-20 minutes.Mix brown sugar and additional lemon zest for the filling.Roll out dough into a rectangle and spread filling.Roll dough tightly into a log and slice into pieces.Let rolls rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes.Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake rolls for 28-32 minutes.Whisk icing ingredients until smooth.Ice the rolls after cooling slightly and serve warm. Nutrition Serving: 1rollCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 4gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 180mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg NotesConsider making the rolls the night before for an easy breakfast. They can be refrigerated after shaping and baked in the morning. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
