Glazed Lemon Sweet Rolls

These Glazed Lemon Sweet Rolls are a bright and zesty twist on classic cinnamon rolls, perfect for spring mornings, brunch gatherings, or an indulgent dessert. Made with a soft, fluffy dough and filled with a luscious lemon filling, they are topped with a sweet lemon glaze and a touch of zest for the ultimate citrus treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These lemon sweet rolls are the perfect combination of tangy and sweet. They offer a refreshing change from traditional cinnamon rolls and are ideal for lemon lovers. The homemade dough is light and pillowy, and the lemon glaze adds a glossy finish that enhances both flavor and presentation. These rolls make a stunning and delicious centerpiece for any breakfast or dessert table.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour

• Active dry yeast

• Granulated sugar

• Milk

• Unsalted butter

• Eggs

• Salt

• Fresh lemon juice

• Lemon zest

• Powdered sugar

• Vanilla extract

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough: Warm the milk and mix it with yeast and sugar. Let it sit until foamy. Add in the butter, eggs, salt, and flour. Knead the dough until smooth, then allow it to rise until doubled in size.

2. Make the Lemon Filling: Combine lemon zest, sugar, and butter to create a fragrant and tangy spread.

3. Assemble the Rolls: Roll out the dough, spread the lemon filling evenly, and roll it into a log. Slice into rolls and arrange in a greased baking dish.

4. Second Rise: Let the rolls rise again until puffy.

5. Bake: Bake at 350°F (175°C) until golden and cooked through.

6. Prepare the Glaze: Mix powdered sugar with lemon juice and vanilla until smooth.

7. Glaze the Rolls: Once baked, drizzle the lemon glaze generously over the warm rolls and garnish with fresh lemon zest.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 rolls
Prep time: 20 minutes
Rise time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Bake time: 20–25 minutes
Total time: Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes

Variations

• Berry Lemon Rolls: Add raspberries or blueberries inside the filling before rolling.

• Lemon Cream Cheese Glaze: Mix cream cheese with lemon juice and powdered sugar for a richer topping.

• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and adjust liquid accordingly.

• Orange Twist: Substitute orange zest and juice for a sweet orange version.

• Mini Rolls: Slice smaller portions for bite-sized servings, great for parties or brunch platters.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying.

FAQs

What makes these lemon rolls different from cinnamon rolls?

These rolls replace the traditional cinnamon-sugar filling with a zesty lemon spread and are topped with a tangy lemon glaze.

Can I use store-bought dough?

Yes, you can use refrigerated crescent or sweet roll dough for convenience, but homemade dough offers a softer texture and fresher flavor.

How do I know when the dough has risen enough?

The dough should double in size and spring back slowly when pressed with a finger.

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the rolls up to the second rise, then refrigerate overnight. Let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.

How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?

Make sure to roll the dough tightly and pinch the seam to seal before slicing.

What type of lemon should I use?

Fresh lemons are best for both zest and juice, preferably organic to avoid wax coatings.

Can I freeze these rolls?

Yes, freeze baked and cooled rolls without glaze for up to 2 months. Thaw and glaze just before serving.

How do I make the rolls extra fluffy?

Use warm—not hot—milk and allow proper rise times to develop a light texture.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, substitute plant-based milk, vegan butter, and a flax egg or egg replacer.

Is it possible to reduce the sugar?

You can reduce the sugar slightly in the filling and glaze, but keep in mind it may affect the final taste and texture.

Conclusion

These Glazed Lemon Sweet Rolls are a delightful departure from the usual breakfast pastries, bringing a burst of sunshine to your table. With their soft texture, fresh lemon flavor, and beautiful presentation, they are sure to become a new favorite for any occasion. Whether served warm for brunch or as a light dessert, these rolls are a citrus lover’s dream.

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• Author: Mariem
• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 30 mins
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 12 bites
• Method: No-Bake

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Description

These Glazed Lemon Sweet Rolls are pillowy soft, bursting with citrus flavor, and finished with a sweet lemony glaze — perfect for brunch, holidays, or a refreshing dessert.

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Ingredients

• • 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast

  • 1 cup warm milk

  • 1/4 cup sugar

  • 1/4 cup melted butter

  • 1 egg

  • 3 cups flour

  • 1/2 tsp salt

  • Zest of 1 lemon

  • Lemon glaze (powdered sugar + lemon juice)

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Instructions

• • Combine yeast, warm milk, and sugar. Let sit 5 min.

  • Add butter, egg, flour, salt, and lemon zest. Knead into dough.

  • Let rise until doubled, roll out and fill with lemon sugar mixture.

  • Roll into a log, slice, and arrange in baking dish.

  • Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 min.

  • Drizzle with lemon glaze while warm.

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Notes

You can prep these the night before and bake fresh in the morning.