Introduction
There’s something undeniably cheerful about the bright and zesty aroma of freshly baked lemon rolls wafting through your kitchen. These delightful treats combine the warmth of homemade bread with the invigorating essence of lemon, creating an irresistible sweet and tangy experience. Perfect for brunch, an afternoon snack, or even dessert, these lemon rolls are sure to bring a smile to your face and a merry twist to any gathering.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet of instant yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed to about 110°F
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- Additional lemon juice for icing
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Yield: 12 rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and salt, stirring until evenly mixed.
- In another bowl, whisk together the warmed milk, melted butter, egg, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice until well combined.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until a soft dough begins to form.
- Lightly flour a clean surface and knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes, or until it is smooth and elastic.
- Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a floured surface and roll it into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
- If desired, sprinkle a mixture of additional sugar and lemon zest over the rolled-out dough for an extra burst of flavor.
- Carefully roll the dough tightly into a log, then slice it into 12 equal pieces.
- Arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish and cover them with a towel. Allow them to rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fragrant.
- While the rolls bake, prepare the lemon icing by mixing the powdered sugar with a little lemon juice until you reach your desired consistency.
- Once the rolls are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes before drizzling them generously with the lemon icing.
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch of elegance, you can garnish each roll with a sprinkle of lemon zest or even a twist of candied lemon peel. These rolls are best enjoyed warm, but they can also be stored in an airtight container for a couple of days. Just pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste!
Cooking Techniques
Kneading the dough is essential for developing the gluten, which gives the rolls their delightful fluffiness. If you’re short on time, you can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook to save some elbow grease! Additionally, allow the dough to rise in a warm spot, as drafts can slow down the yeast activity and lead to denser rolls.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of flour?
No, all-purpose flour is recommended for the best texture, but you can experiment with bread flour for a chewier roll.
How can I make these rolls vegan?
You can substitute the egg with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use a plant-based milk and butter alternative.
What if I don’t have instant yeast?
You can use active dry yeast, but be sure to proof it in warm water first before adding it to your mixture.
Conclusion
These lemon rolls are a delightful treat that captures the essence of sunny days and bright flavors. Perfect for sharing with loved ones or simply indulging in a moment of sweet self-care, each bite offers a comforting blend of softness and zest. So gather your ingredients, bring a bit of warmth to your kitchen, and let every roll fill your home with happiness!