LEMON ROLLS: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe for 10 Servings

LEMON ROLLS are a delightful treat that combines bright citrus flavors with soft, fluffy dough. These rolls are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making them a perfect addition to any brunch or dessert table. Whether you are serving them for a special occasion or just as a sweet indulgence, you and your guests will be amazed by their zesty flavor and comforting texture. Imagine biting into a warm roll that melts in your mouth, bursting with the refreshing taste of lemon. It’s an experience that captures the essence of bright spring days and sunny picnics.
If you’re looking for a recipe that will elevate your baking game, LEMON ROLLS are a fantastic choice. The balance of sweet and tart is irresistible, drawing you in for just one more bite. In addition, the scent of freshly baked lemon rolls wafting through your home creates an inviting atmosphere that no one can resist. Not only do they taste incredible, but they also look beautiful with their golden-brown tops and a dusting of powdered sugar.
In this guide, you will discover why this recipe is beloved, learn the preparation and cooking times, find a detailed list of ingredients, and follow easy step-by-step instructions. Let’s dive into why making LEMON ROLLS will become a cherished baking tradition in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One of the best things about LEMON ROLLS is the delightful combination of flavors and textures. You’ll fall in love with this recipe for several reasons:
1. Bright Flavor: The fresh lemon zest and juice infuse the dough with an uplifting taste.
2. Soft and Fluffy Texture: These rolls are soft on the inside, with a light, airy texture that’s simply irresistible.
3. Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you don’t need to be a master baker to achieve perfect rolls.
4. Versatile Treat: LEMON ROLLS can be served for breakfast, as a snack, or even for dessert.
5. A Showstopper: The beautiful presentation and aromatic scent make them perfect for gatherings.
6. Celebrate Seasonal Ingredients: Lemons are bright and cheerful, making them ideal for sunny celebrations.
These points highlight why LEMON ROLLS can easily become a favorite among your family and friends. Each roll is a small bite of sunshine, making your baking experience both joyful and rewarding.

Preparation and Cooking Time

When it comes to preparing LEMON ROLLS, timing is everything. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:
– Preparation Time: 30 minutes
– Rise Time: 1 hour (divided into two stages)
– Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
– Cooling Time: 15 minutes
In total, this recipe will take around 1 hour and 15 minutes to prepare and bake. These times may vary slightly based on your kitchen setup, but having this estimate allows you to plan your baking adventure efficiently.

Ingredients

– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1 teaspoon salt
– Zest of 2 large lemons
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

For the Lemon Glaze:

– 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
– 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
– Zest of 1 lemon (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating LEMON ROLLS is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Follow these steps to bring them to life:
1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk, a teaspoon of sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, remaining sugar, salt, lemon zest, and melted butter. Mix well.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Add the activated yeast mixture, eggs, lemon juice, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir until a dough forms.
4. Knead the Dough: Place the dough on a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1 hour).
6. Roll Out the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a rectangle, approximately 1/2-inch thick.
7. Fill the Rolls: Brush the surface with melted butter and sprinkle a mixture of sugar and additional lemon zest evenly over the top.
8. Shape the Rolls: Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut into 1-inch pieces and place them in a greased baking dish.
9. Second Rise: Cover the rolls with a cloth and allow them to rise again for 30-45 minutes until puffy.
10. Preheat Oven: While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
11. Bake: Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
12. Cool: Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool for about 15 minutes before glazing.
13. Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and enough lemon juice to create a drizzle consistency.
14. Glaze the Rolls: Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls and garnish with lemon zest.
Following these steps will ensure that your LEMON ROLLS come out fluffy, flavorful, and utterly scrumptious.

How to Serve

Now that you’ve prepared your LEMON ROLLS, presenting them beautifully will enhance the experience:
1. Show them Off: Use a large platter or a tiered stand to display the rolls. It adds elegance to your table.
2. Accompaniments: Serve with a side of fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch.
3. Warm or Room Temperature: These rolls are delicious warm, but they also taste fantastic at room temperature.
4. Pair with Beverages: Enjoy with a cup of herbal tea, coffee, or even a refreshing lemonade to complement the citrus flavor.
5. Individual Servings: Offer each roll on a small plate for individual servings, making them easy to grab and enjoy.
With these serving suggestions, your LEMON ROLLS will not only be a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, creating a memorable experience for everyone at your gathering!
Additional Tips
– Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, always use fresh lemons for zest and juice. This greatly enhances the citrus taste.
– Allow Rolls to Cool: Let the rolls cool slightly before applying the glaze to prevent it from melting away.
– Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to incorporate other citrus flavors, like orange or lime, for a unique twist on your LEMON ROLLS.
Recipe Variation
Explore different variations of LEMON ROLLS to suit your taste preferences:
1. Cream Cheese Filling: Spread a layer of sweetened cream cheese before rolling the dough for a rich, creamy interior.
2. Lemon Blueberry Rolls: Add fresh blueberries to the filling for a delightful fruity addition that pairs wonderfully with lemon.
3. Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Freezing and Storage
– Storage: Keep LEMON ROLLS covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
– Freezing: You can freeze unglazed rolls for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to protect from freezer burn. Thaw before glazing and serving.
Special Equipment
To create these delicious LEMON ROLLS, gather the following tools:
– Large mixing bowl for dough preparation.
– Rolling pin for flattening the dough.
– 9×13 inch baking dish for baking the rolls.
– Clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap for covering dough during rising.
– Whisk for mixing the glaze.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell when my LEMON ROLLS are fully baked?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the rolls are ready.
Can I prepare the dough overnight?
Yes, you can prepare the dough, allow it to rise, then refrigerate it overnight before continuing with the shaping and baking steps.
What if I don’t have fresh lemons?
In a pinch, you can use bottled lemon juice, but fresh lemons provide a more vibrant flavor.
Can I serve these rolls warm?
Absolutely! In fact, LEMON ROLLS are delightful when served warm right out of the oven.
How can I enhance the glaze’s flavor?
Add a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of salt to the glaze for extra depth and flavor.
Conclusion
LEMON ROLLS are a scrumptious addition to any meal, bringing sunshine and delight with their delightful lemony flavor. Their fluffy texture and sweet-tart glaze create an experience that is truly exceptional. With easy preparation, simple ingredients, and endless variations, these rolls will quickly become a cherished favorite in your home. Enjoy baking and sharing this delicious treat with family and friends!

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