Name: Lemon Sweet Rolls
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons); 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup warm milk; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; Zest and juice of 2 lemons; 3/4 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for filling)

Hey y’all! If you’re looking for the ultimate citrus-infused treat, these Lemon Sweet Rolls are calling your name. With their ultra-soft dough, tangy lemon filling, and sunshine-sweet glaze, they’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any time you want to wow your friends and family. Whether it’s a weekend baking project or a special holiday brunch, you’ll fall in love with every zesty bite. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Sweet Rolls Recipe

Bright, tangy lemon flavor perfectly balances sweet, pillowy dough.
Easy to make ahead for a stress-free breakfast or brunch.
A crowd-pleasing choice that looks as good as it tastes.
Totally customizable—add berries, swap glazes, or go big on lemon!
Bakes up soft, fluffy, and gooey every single time.

Lemon Sweet Rolls Ingredients

Dough:

3 ¼ cups (410g) all-purpose flour
¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
2 ¼ teaspoon (1 packet) active dry yeast
½ teaspoon salt
¾ cup (180ml) warm milk (about 110°F/43°C)
¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs, room temperature

Lemon Filling:

½ cup (110g) unsalted butter, softened
⅔ cup (135g) granulated sugar
Zest of 2 large lemons
2 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Lemon Glaze:

1 ½ cups (180g) powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for extra zing!)

How to Make Lemon Sweet Rolls: Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
In a separate bowl, whisk warm milk, melted butter, and eggs.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and mix until a sticky dough forms.
Knead dough on a lightly floured surface for about 7-8 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise for 60-90 minutes, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Lemon Filling for Sweet Rolls

Mix softened butter, sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice in a bowl to make a spreadable paste.
Punch down the risen dough and roll out into a large rectangle (about 16×12 inches).
Spread the lemon filling evenly over the dough, reaching all edges.

Step 3: Assemble & Slice the Lemon Sweet Rolls

Tightly roll up the dough from the long edge, forming a log.
Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut into 12 equal rolls.
Arrange rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise another 30-45 minutes, until puffy.

Step 4: Bake the Lemon Sweet Rolls

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake for 25-28 minutes, or until lightly golden on top. (If browning too fast, loosely cover with foil.)

Step 5: Glaze and Serve

Whisk powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. If glaze is too thick, add a splash of lemon juice or milk.
Drizzle glaze over warm Lemon Sweet Rolls and garnish with extra lemon zest, if desired. Serve warm!

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Rising Time: 2 hours
Bake Time: 25-28 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours

Notes for Perfect Lemon Sweet Rolls

Proof your yeast in warm milk for about 5 minutes until bubbly if you want to be sure it’s active. More on yeast here: How to work with yeast.
To speed up rising, place your bowl in a warm, draft-free spot, like a turned-off oven with the light on.
Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the brightest, freshest flavor. For why fresh juice matters, see this article.

Lemon Sweet Rolls Variations

Blueberry Lemon Sweet Rolls: Sprinkle 1 cup fresh blueberries over the filling before rolling up.
Poppy Seed Lemon Rolls: Add 1 tablespoon poppy seeds to the filling for a bakery-style twist.
Cream Cheese Lemon Rolls: Swirl softened cream cheese with the filling for extra richness.

Required Equipment for Lemon Sweet Rolls

Large mixing bowls
Stand mixer with dough hook (optional, but handy)
Rolling pin
9×13-inch baking dish
Sharp knife or flavorless dental floss for slicing
Whisk

How to Store Lemon Sweet Rolls (Shelf Life)

Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
For longer shelf life, refrigerate for up to 5 days. Warm before serving for best texture.
Lemon Sweet Rolls can be frozen (unglazed) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and glaze before serving.

Serving Recommendations & Pairings for Lemon Sweet Rolls

Serve alongside a fresh fruit salad and hot coffee for a showstopping brunch spread.
Pair with an iced latte, herbal tea, or a citrus mimosa.
Top with extra lemon zest or a handful of chopped pistachios for a crunch.

Pro Tips for Lemon Sweet Rolls

For even slices, chill the rolled log in the fridge for 15 minutes before cutting.
If your kitchen is cool, let your dough rise in a slightly warmed oven or use your favorite proofing method.
To keep rolls super soft, brush with a little melted butter right out of the oven.

Lemon Sweet Rolls FAQ

Can I make Lemon Sweet Rolls ahead of time? Yes! Assemble and slice the rolls, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temp and rise before baking the next day.
How do I know when Lemon Sweet Rolls are done baking? The tops should be lightly golden, and the centers should look set (an internal temperature of about 190°F/88°C).
Can I use bottled lemon juice? Fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor, but bottled can work if that’s what you have—just be sure to include plenty of zest for a real punch!

Lemon Sweet Rolls