Lemon Rolls with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you’re craving something irresistibly bright, tender, and bursting with zesty sunshine, this Lemon Rolls with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is going to become your new favorite treat. Fluffy, soft rolls swirled with a tangy lemon filling and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting that’s kissed with fresh lemon juice—each bite is a perfect balance of sweet and tart that will make your mornings, brunches, or dessert moments absolutely unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting this recipe right is all about simple, fresh ingredients that come together beautifully to create a delicate yet flavorful dough and a bright lemon filling. Every item contributes to the perfect texture, vibrant flavor, or that melt-in-your-mouth softness you’re dreaming of.

• Whole milk (1 1/4 cups, warmed to about 110°F): Helps activate the yeast for a light, airy dough.
• Active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp): The magical leavening agent that makes these rolls puff up just right.
• Granulated white sugar (3 tbsp total): A touch in the dough and for blooming the yeast to feed it.
• All-purpose flour (4 3/4 cups, spooned and leveled): The body of the dough, providing structure and softness.
• Salt (1 1/2 tsp): Enhances the flavors in the dough and balances the sweetness.
• Eggs (2, whisked): Add richness and tender crumb to the dough.
• Unsalted butter (1 1/2 cups total, very softened): Used at different steps for richness and the luscious lemon filling.
• Vanilla extract (1/2 tbsp): Adds subtle warmth and depth to the dough flavor.
• Lemon zest (4 1/2 tbsp total): The star ingredient that brings fresh citrus brightness to both the dough and filling.
• Fresh lemon juice (2 1/2 tbsp total): Intensifies the lemon flavor in the filling and frosting with natural tang.
• Brown sugar (1/2 cup): Adds caramel notes and moisture to the lemon filling.
• Heavy cream (1/4 cup): Poured between the rolls for extra richness and moistness during baking.
• Cream cheese (4 oz, cold): For that classic tangy frosting that ties everything together.
• Powdered sugar (3/4 cup): Sweetens the frosting while keeping it smooth and creamy.

How to Make Lemon Rolls with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start with a warm milk bath (around 110°F) where you dissolve the yeast and a spoonful of sugar. This step is so satisfying because you watch the mixture bubble and foam as the yeast wakes up, promising fluffy rolls ahead.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Mix

Combine the flour, salt, and sugar in your mixing bowl. These dry ingredients create the perfect texture and flavor base for the dough—fluffy yet sturdy enough to wrap around the lemony filling.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

Mix in whisked eggs, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and softened butter to the dry mix. This combination enriches the dough with moisture, flavor, and that zingy lemon brightness that shines through in every bite.

Step 4: Combine and Knead the Dough

Pour in the activated yeast mixture and stir until just blended. Then switch to a dough hook and knead the dough for 7 to 10 minutes until it’s smooth, elastic, and springs back when gently pressed. This process is key to developing a tender and airy crumb.

Step 5: First Rise

Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover and let it rest in a warm spot until it doubles in size, usually about 1 to 1.5 hours. This rise is when your dough gets fluffy and ready to embrace that luscious lemon filling.

Step 6: Make the Lemon Filling

Mix softened butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and salt. This lemon filling is the heart of the Lemon Rolls with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe, giving each roll its signature tang and sweetness.

Step 7: Roll Out the Dough

After rising, punch down the dough and roll it on a lightly floured surface into an 18×12 inch rectangle. A thin, even thickness will help with perfect spreading and rolling.

Step 8: Spread the Filling

Using an offset spatula, spread the lemon filling evenly over the dough. This generous layer ensures every bite will be bursting with that vibrant citrus flavor.

Step 9: Shape and Slice

Roll the dough tightly from the long edge closest to you, trim the ends for neat rolls, and cut into 12 equal pieces using floss or a sharp knife. The anticipation builds as you see your rolls take shape!

Step 10: Second Rise in Baking Dish

Place the rolls in a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish, pour heavy cream in between for extra moistness, and cover to proof for about one hour until doubled. This last rise is crucial for soft and fluffy rolls.

Step 11: Preheat and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F about 15 minutes before the rolls finish proving. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden and beautifully puffed—your kitchen will smell like a lemon-scented dream!

Step 12: Make the Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

While the rolls bake, beat softened butter until fluffy, then add cold cream cheese and blend until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice, beating everything into a silky lemon frosting that’s light, tangy, and utterly irresistible.

Step 13: Frost and Serve

Let the baked rolls cool slightly, then slather on a generous amount of the lemon cream cheese frosting while still warm. The frosting melts slightly, creating a glossy, tangy blanket of goodness.

How to Serve Lemon Rolls with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

For a fresh, decorative touch, sprinkle extra lemon zest or tiny edible flower petals on top of the frosting. A thin twist of lemon peel adds a pop of color and elevates the citrus aroma, making your presentation as delightful as the flavor.

Side Dishes

These rolls pair beautifully with a light salad or fresh fruit for brunch, or enjoy them alongside a hot cup of tea or coffee. Their bright lemon flavor cuts through sweetness, balancing the meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual rolls with a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of honey on the side or offer mini lemon rolls as party finger food, garnished with a small mint leaf. Turning these rolls into petite treats makes them even more special and shareable.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover lemon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Keeping them covered preserves their softness and prevents drying out, so each bite stays as tender as the first.

Freezing

These rolls freeze beautifully either before baking or after being frosted. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. When frozen, they can last up to three months without losing the bright lemon flavor.

Reheating

To warm up stored rolls, pop them in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes, or microwave individually wrapped rolls for 20-30 seconds. Reheat gently to preserve that soft texture and fresh lemony zing.

FAQs

Can I use lemon juice instead of zest in the Lemon Rolls with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe?

While lemon juice adds lovely acidity and flavor, the zest contains essential oils that provide a bright, aromatic punch. For the best flavor balance, use both zest and juice as the recipe suggests.

Is it okay to substitute cream cheese with mascarpone for the frosting?

Mascarpone can be used for a milder, creamier frosting, though it won’t be as tangy as cream cheese. If you love the classic tang, stick with cream cheese for your lemon rolls.

Can these rolls be made gluten-free?

Achieving the same fluffy texture without gluten is challenging. If you want to experiment, use a high-quality gluten-free flour blend and add xanthan gum, but expect some textural differences.

What’s the best way to ensure the dough rises properly?

Make sure your milk is warm but not hot, yeast is fresh, and you proof the dough in a warm, draft-free spot. Patience is key, as the dough needs time to double for perfect lightness.

Can I make mini lemon rolls instead of the full-size ones?

Absolutely! Smaller rolls just need a slightly shorter baking time—watch for a golden brown color and do a toothpick test. Mini rolls are great for parties or bite-sized treats.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Rolls with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is truly a slice of sunshine wrapped up in soft, tender dough. Whether you’re treating yourself on a weekend morning or impressing friends at brunch, these rolls bring joy with every bite. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to bake these lemony delights again and again—so go ahead, gather your ingredients and savor the magic of fresh lemon rolls today!

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