Discover the irresistible charm of these Lemon Curd Rolls, a delightful baked good that perfectly marries the tangy zest of fresh lemons with the sweetness of homemade lemon curd, all wrapped in a soft, pillowy dough. Each roll is a burst of citrusy flavor, making them an ideal choice for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet afternoon snack.
Why You'll Love This Recipe: These Lemon Curd Rolls offer a refreshing twist on traditional sweet rolls, incorporating the bright, zesty flavor of lemon both inside and out. The homemade lemon curd is creamy and rich, providing a delicious contrast to the soft, fluffy texture of the bread. Topped with a light lemon glaze, these rolls are not only flavorful but also visually appealing.
Perfect Occasion: These rolls are perfect for special occasions such as Easter brunch, Mother's Day, or any gathering where a light and flavorful pastry is desired. They're also wonderful as a weekend baking project to enjoy with family or to brighten someone's day as a homemade gift.
Decoration Tips: For an extra touch of elegance, you can sprinkle the glazed rolls with lemon zest or small curls of lemon peel. If you're serving these at a brunch or tea party, consider garnishing the serving tray with fresh lemon slices or edible flowers for a visually appealing presentation.
Ingredients:
For the Lemon Curd (prepare a day ahead):
- 150g sugar
- 3 medium eggs
- 110g fresh lemon juice
- A pinch of salt
- 80g butter, at room temperature
For the Dough:
- 235g bread flour
- 40g sugar
- 1 medium egg
- 80g heavy cream (35% fat content)
- 10g fresh yeast
- Zest of one lemon
- 50g butter
For the Glaze:
- 120g powdered sugar
- 20g lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Make the Lemon Curd:
- In a saucepan, whisk together sugar and eggs. Add lemon juice and a pinch of salt.
- Place the pan over a double boiler (bain-marie) and stir continuously until the mixture thickens.
- Once thickened, stir in the butter and continue to cook for a few more minutes.
- Remove from heat, let it cool slightly, cover directly with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming, and refrigerate overnight.
2. Prepare the Dough:
- Dissolve the crumbled yeast in warm cream and let it activate for five minutes.
- In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine flour, sugar, egg, and lemon zest. Begin mixing, then gradually add softened butter. Knead until the dough is smooth and shiny.
- Cover the dough and let it rise until doubled in size.
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle on a lightly floured surface. Spread a generous layer of chilled lemon curd over the dough.
- Roll up the dough tightly from the long edge, then cut into six equal pieces.
- Place the rolls in a baking dish, cover, and let rise again until doubled.
3. Bake and Glaze:
- Preheat the oven to 170°C (338°F).
- Brush the rolls with milk and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden.
- While the rolls are still warm, mix powdered sugar with lemon juice to create a thin glaze and drizzle it over the rolls.
Enjoy these spectacular Lemon Curd Rolls, a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors that are sure to impress at any table. Their light, airy texture and rich filling make them an unforgettable treat for any occasion.