Lemon Rolls are a delightful twist on traditional cinnamon rolls, offering a burst of citrus flavor in every bite. These soft, fluffy rolls are filled with a zesty lemon filling and topped with a tangy lemon icing, making them a perfect treat for breakfast or brunch. Ready in just 90 minutes, they bake up with gooey centers and a golden-brown exterior, ensuring a satisfying and refreshing experience.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 4 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (approximately 530g), plus additional for dusting
  
  

• 4 1/2 teaspoons (2 packets) instant dry yeast (approximately 14g)
  
  

• 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon poppy seeds (optional)
  
  

• 1 teaspoon fine salt (approximately 6g)
  
  

• 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature (approximately 240g)
  
  

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (approximately 100g)
  
  

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature (approximately 113g)
  
  

• 2 large eggs, room temperature (approximately 112g)
  
  

• Zest of 2 large lemons (approximately 6g)
  
  

For the Filling:

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (approximately 100g)
  
  

• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar (approximately 100g)
  
  

• Zest of 2 large lemons (approximately 6g)
  
  

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (approximately 113g)
  
  

For the Icing:

• 2 cups powdered sugar (approximately 250g)
  
  

• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (approximately 60g)
  
  

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (approximately 28g)
  
  

Optional:

• Additional fresh lemon zest for garnish
  
  

Directions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   
   

   • Preheat your oven to 200°F (95°C). In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine 4 1/4 cups flour, 4 1/2 teaspoons yeast, 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon poppy seeds (if using), and 1 teaspoon salt.
     
     

   • In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup buttermilk, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup butter. Heat in the microwave for 1 minute, then stir to combine. The butter should be mostly melted, and the mixture should feel warm but not hot to the touch.
     
     

   • Slowly pour the warm buttermilk mixture into the dry ingredients and mix on medium speed with a dough hook or by hand with a dough whisk. Add the eggs one at a time and mix until a sticky dough ball forms. Continue to mix on medium-low speed for a couple of minutes until the dough becomes more elastic.
     
     

   • Once combined, mix in the zest of 2 large lemons until incorporated.
     
     

   • As the dough mixes, add additional flour 1 tablespoon at a time until the dough begins to leave the sides of the bowl. The dough should feel tacky but not sticky. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rest for 10-20 minutes.
     
     

2. Prepare the Filling:
   
   

   • In a medium-sized bowl, combine 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar, and the zest of 2 large lemons. Massage the zest into the sugar with your fingertips to help release the oils. Add 1/2 cup softened butter and whisk until combined. Set aside.
     
     

3. Assemble the Rolls:
   
   

   • Once the dough has rested, place it on a lightly floured surface and roll it into a large rectangle, approximately 12 inches by 18 inches and about 1/2 cm thick.
     
     

   • Spread the lemon filling over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border on the long side of the rectangle uncovered.
     
     

   • Roll the dough horizontally toward the uncovered strip and cut into 12 equal pieces using dental floss. Place the rolls in a greased or lined 9×13-inch pan.
     
     

   • Turn the oven off and place the pan in the oven to allow the rolls to rise for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the pan from the oven and preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
     
     

   • Bake the rolls for 28-32 minutes, or until golden brown.
     
     

4. Prepare the Icing:
   
   

   • In a small bowl, combine 2 cups powdered sugar, 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons melted butter. Whisk until smooth.
     
     

5. Serve:
   
   

   • Once the rolls have cooled slightly, drizzle the lemon icing over the top. Optionally, garnish with additional fresh lemon zest.
     
     

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.):

• Calories: 567 kcal
  
  

• Total Fat: 22 g
  
  

• Saturated Fat: 13 g
  
  

• Cholesterol: 75 mg
  
  

• Sodium: 202 mg
  
  

• Total Carbohydrates: 83 g
  
  

• Dietary Fiber: 1 g
  
  

• Sugars: 51 g
  
  

• Protein: 7 g