There is nothing quite like waking up to the sweet and tangy aroma of freshly baked lemon rolls, which is why I am beyond excited to share this Easy Lemon Rolls Recipe with you. These delightful rolls are soft and fluffy with a luscious cream cheese filling that carries a subtle burst of bright lemon flavor. Perfectly sweetened and drizzled with a simple lemon glaze, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Whether you’re baking for a special weekend brunch or simply craving a tasty treat, these lemon rolls bring that perfect balance of refreshing citrus and indulgent richness with minimal effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things wonderfully simple with ingredients you’re likely to have on hand or can easily find at the store. Each component plays an essential role, from the creamy tang of the softened cream cheese to the fresh zest that brings that unmistakable lemon brightness. The refrigerated French bread dough means you can skip the fuss of making dough from scratch without sacrificing that tender, pillowy texture we all adore in rolls.
- ½ (8-oz) package cream cheese, softened: Provides a rich, creamy base for the filling that keeps the rolls moist and flavorful.
- ¼ cup brown sugar: Adds a gentle caramel sweetness that complements the tangy cream cheese perfectly.
- ½ tsp lemon zest: Packs a punch of bright, fresh lemon flavor without overwhelming the palate.
- 1 (11-oz) can refrigerated French bread dough: The secret to those soft, fluffy rolls without the need for hours of rising time.
- 2 Tbsp granulated sugar: Sprinkled over the cream cheese layer for a touch of crunch and extra sweetness.
- ½ cup powdered sugar: Used to make the glaze that adds a delightful sweet finish with a silky texture.
- 1 to 2 Tbsp lemon juice: Brings the glaze together and enhances the lemon flavor with a zesty tang.
How to Make Easy Lemon Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly spraying a 9-inch cake pan with cooking spray. This step frees you from worrying about the rolls sticking and ensures they bake evenly with a golden crust.
Step 2: Mix the Cream Cheese Filling
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, brown sugar, and lemon zest together at medium speed with an electric mixer until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This is where the magic begins as the flavors meld into a heavenly spreadable filling that’s bursting with citrusy sweetness.
Step 3: Prepare the Dough
Carefully unroll the refrigerated French bread dough onto a clean surface. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the dough, leaving about a quarter-inch border around the edges. This border keeps the filling neatly tucked inside once rolled. Then, sprinkle granulated sugar on top of the cream cheese layer for a bit of texture and sweetness.
Step 4: Roll It Up
Beginning with one long edge, gently roll the dough into a log lengthwise. Pinch the edges to seal the seams so the filling doesn’t escape during baking. This shaping step is crucial to keeping everything intact and ensuring those beautiful spiral layers inside.
Step 5: Slice and Arrange
Using a serrated knife, cut the rolled dough into 12 equal rolls. Place them snugly but not crowded in the prepared cake pan. They will bloom and expand in the oven, so leave just enough space to accommodate their puffiness.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake the rolls for 25 to 30 minutes, until they turn a lovely golden brown on top and feel set. The house will fill with a tempting lemony aroma that hints at the deliciousness to come. Once done, remove from the oven and let cool very slightly before glazing.
Step 7: Glaze and Serve
Combine the powdered sugar and lemon juice in a small bowl, stirring until smooth and drizzle-worthy. Spread this glaze lovingly over the warm rolls so it melts into each nook and cranny, adding a glossy finish and an extra punch of citrus sweetness that makes these rolls absolutely irresistible.
How to Serve Easy Lemon Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
For a little extra wow factor, consider sprinkling some additional fresh lemon zest over the glazed rolls just before serving. You might also top them with a few finely chopped toasted pistachios or a light dusting of powdered sugar for a pop of color and crunch.
Side Dishes
These lemon rolls are versatile enough to pair with a variety of dishes. Serve alongside a fresh berry salad or a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the sweetness. For breakfast or brunch, they go wonderfully with scrambled eggs or crispy bacon.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Easy Lemon Rolls Recipe as part of a brunch spread on a beautiful cake stand, letting the glaze glisten under the light. Alternatively, place them in a rustic basket lined with a brightly colored napkin for a casual, inviting presentation perfect for gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover rolls tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps the rolls soft and delectable without drying out.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these lemon rolls later, wrap them individually or as a full batch in freezer-safe wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to two months without losing any of their delightful flavor or texture.
Reheating
To revive the rolls, warm them in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual rolls for 15 to 20 seconds for a quick fix, though the oven method preserves the texture best.
FAQs
Can I make the dough from scratch for this recipe?
Absolutely, though this Easy Lemon Rolls Recipe is designed for convenience using refrigerated French bread dough. If you prefer to make dough from scratch, choose a soft yeast dough recipe and let it rise fully before filling and rolling.
How do I ensure the rolls don’t get too soggy?
Leaving a small border around the edges of the dough when spreading the filling helps prevent leakage during baking, which can cause sogginess. Also, sealing the dough edges tightly when rolling is key to keeping the moisture inside.
Can I substitute the lemon zest and juice with other flavors?
You sure can! Orange zest and juice can create a lovely twist, or even a bit of lime for a sharper tang. Just remember to adjust quantities to taste, as citrus flavors vary in intensity.
Is there a way to make these rolls vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based alternative, and use a vegan-friendly dough option. Also, check that your powdered sugar and other ingredients don’t contain animal products.
Can I make these rolls ahead of time before baking?
Yes! Prepare the rolls up to the point of slicing and placing them in the pan, then cover and refrigerate overnight. Bake them fresh the next day, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are chilled.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for a no-fuss yet irresistibly delicious treat, this Easy Lemon Rolls Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines everyday ingredients with a bright, fresh lemon flavor that wakes up your senses and fills your kitchen with warmth. Trust me, once you try these rolls, they’ll earn a permanent spot in your baking rotation. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, grab that lemon zest, and enjoy the joyful baking adventure ahead!
Print
Easy Lemon Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Easy Lemon Rolls are a delightful treat combining creamy lemon-flavored filling with soft, fluffy French bread dough, baked to golden perfection and topped with a tangy lemon glaze. Perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack, they come together quickly and offer bright citrusy flavors.
Ingredients
Filling
- ½ (8-oz) package cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ½ tsp lemon zest
Dough
- 1 (11-oz) can refrigerated French bread dough
- 2 Tbsp granulated sugar
Glaze
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 to 2 Tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375ºF (190ºC) and lightly spray a 9-inch cake pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, brown sugar, and lemon zest together at medium speed using an electric mixer until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Roll Out Dough: Unroll the refrigerated French bread dough onto a clean surface. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/4-inch border around the edges. Sprinkle granulated sugar evenly over the cream cheese layer.
- Form Rolls: Starting from one of the long edges, tightly roll the dough into a log shape. Pinch the edges to seal the seam and keep the rolls intact.
- Slice Rolls: Using a serrated knife, carefully cut the rolled dough into 12 equal slices. Arrange the slices cut-side up in the prepared cake pan.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake the rolls for 25 to 30 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly.
- Make Glaze and Finish: In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar with 1 to 2 tablespoons of lemon juice until smooth and pourable. Spread this glaze evenly over the warm rolls before serving for a sweet and tangy finish.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to achieve a smooth filling without lumps.
- Adjust the amount of lemon juice in the glaze to your preference for tartness and consistency.
- Use a serrated knife for clean slices that keep the rolls intact.
- These rolls are best served warm but can be reheated gently before serving.
- Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
