These Fluffy Lemon Rolls are what dreams are made of, with their ultra-soft, pillowy texture and an explosion of fresh lemon flavor in every bite. Perfectly balanced with sweetness and the tangy zest of lemon, these rolls are a testament to the magic of baking. Each roll is lovingly filled with a rich, lemon-infused sugar paste, then topped with a creamy, zesty glaze that melts in your mouth. This recipe is a celebration of flavors and textures, combining to create a truly unforgettable treat.
Why You'll Love This:
From the first bite, these Lemon Rolls will set a new standard for what a sweet, fluffy bread should be. The dough, enriched with Greek yogurt and butter, bakes up lighter than air, while the lemon zest adds a bright, citrusy spark that cuts through the richness. The unique process of massaging lemon zest into the sugar for the filling releases oils that infuse the rolls with an incredible depth of flavor. These rolls are a perfect example of how simple ingredients, when combined with care, can create something extraordinary.
Perfect Occasion:
These Lemon Rolls are perfect for any occasion that calls for a special treat. Serve them at brunch to brighten up the morning, as an afternoon pick-me-up with tea, or as a delightful dessert at your next gathering. They're especially fitting for spring and summer events, where their light, citrusy flavor can really shine. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a weekend baking project, these rolls are sure to impress.
Decoration Tips:
The creamy glaze on top is not only delicious but also serves as a beautiful canvas for decoration. For an added touch of elegance, garnish with thin strips of lemon zest or a sprinkle of edible flowers before the glaze sets. If you're serving these rolls at a special event, consider adding a few fresh berries on the side for a pop of color and a complementary flavor.
Dough Ingredients:
- 345g bread flour
- 5g salt
- 55g sugar
- 7g instant dry yeast
- 1 large egg
- 40g water
- 100g milk, warmed
- 30g Greek yogurt
- 35g unsalted butter, softened
- Zest of 2 lemons
Filling:
- 7g vanilla bean paste
- 60g unsalted butter, softened
- 100g granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp lemon zest (about 2 lemons)
Glaze:
- 25g powdered sugar
- 4 oz (about 113g) cream cheese, softened
- 27g lemon juice
- 30g heavy cream
- 7g vanilla bean paste
- Zest of 1 lemon
Directions:
- Start by mixing bread flour, salt, sugar, yeast, egg, water, milk, and Greek yogurt in a stand mixer bowl. Knead on low speed until just combined, then add softened butter and increase to medium speed. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Let the dough ferment in a bowl for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
- Prepare the filling by mixing sugar and lemon zest with your fingers, then blend in vanilla and softened butter.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (about 177°C).
- Roll out the fermented dough into a rectangle, spread the lemon filling evenly, and cut into 6-8 pieces.
- Allow the rolls to rise for another 45 minutes, then bake in a buttered dish for 20 minutes or until golden.
- For the glaze, mix cream cheese, powdered sugar, lemon juice, heavy cream, vanilla, and lemon zest until smooth. Spread over slightly cooled rolls.
Indulge in the joy of these Fluffy Lemon Rolls, a bake that promises to fill your kitchen with the scent of citrus and warmth. Enjoy the delightful contrast of soft bread, sweet and tangy filling, and creamy glaze in every bite. Enjoy!
