If you are looking for a delightful treat that perfectly balances tangy citrus with a gentle crunch, look no further than the Lemon Poppy Seed Rolls with Lemon Glaze Recipe. These rolls are fluffy and tender, bursting with bright lemon zest and a luscious lemon glaze that adds a zesty sweetness to every bite. Whether it’s for a weekend brunch, a cozy tea time, or a special occasion, this recipe will quickly become a beloved favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that work beautifully together to create the perfect texture and flavor. Each element has its role, whether adding richness, tang, or a delightful crunch from the poppy seeds.
- All-purpose flour (4 1/4 cups): The foundation providing structure to the rolls.
- Instant dry yeast (4 1/2 tsp): Essential for giving the dough its fluffy rise.
- Poppy seeds (1 Tbsp + 1 tsp): Add a subtle crunch and a nutty flavor throughout the dough and topping.
- Salt (1 tsp): Balances the sweetness and enhances all other flavors.
- Buttermilk (1 cup): Introduces a tangy richness that keeps the rolls tender.
- Granulated sugar (1/2 cup + 1/2 cup for filling): Sweetens both dough and filling evenly.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup + 1/2 cup for filling): Brings moistness and luxurious flavor throughout.
- Eggs (2 large): Bind the dough while adding moisture and richness.
- Lemon zest (2 Tbsp + 2 Tbsp for filling): The star ingredient that delivers bright citrus bursts.
- Light brown sugar (1/2 cup for filling): Adds caramel notes in the filling for depth.
- Powdered sugar (2 cups for glaze): Creates a smooth, sweet lemon glaze topping.
- Fresh lemon juice (1/4 cup for glaze): Makes the glaze tangy, balancing the sweetness.
- Melted butter (2 Tbsp for glaze): Adds richness and shiny finish to the glaze.
- Fresh lemon zest for topping: A bright, colorful garnish that elevates the presentation and flavor.
How to Make Lemon Poppy Seed Rolls with Lemon Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Combine Dry Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 200°F to prepare a warm spot for proofing the dough later. Then, mix the flour, instant dry yeast, poppy seeds, and salt in a large bowl. This dry mixture sets the stage for a perfectly risen dough packed with flavor.
Step 2: Warm Wet Ingredients and Combine
In a separate saucepan, gently warm the buttermilk, granulated sugar, and butter until the butter melts. Pour this warm mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until everything begins to come together.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Lemon Zest
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the fresh lemon zest, which infuses the dough with bright citrus notes that shine through every bite.
Step 4: Gradually Add Flour to Form Dough
Slowly work in the remaining flour until you achieve a dough that is tacky but not sticky. This balance is crucial for rolls that are soft yet hold their shape. Cover the dough and let it rest, allowing the yeast to activate and the dough to rise slightly.
Step 5: Prepare the Filling
Combine the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, lemon zest, and softened butter into a luscious filling. This mixture provides a sweet, tangy, and buttery layer inside every roll, creating a mouthwatering contrast to the tender dough.
Step 6: Roll Out Dough and Spread Filling
Roll the dough into a rectangle about 12×18 inches. Spread the lemon poppy seed filling evenly over the surface, making sure every inch is covered so each roll is perfectly flavored.
Step 7: Shape and Slice the Rolls
Roll the dough tightly from one long edge to the other to create a log. Use a sharp knife to slice it into 12 equal pieces, giving you those classic spiral rolls filled with zesty butter and sugar goodness.
Step 8: Proof the Rolls
Place the rolls in a baking pan and let them rise in the warm oven for about 30 minutes. This step helps achieve that fluffy, pillowy texture that makes them so irresistible.
Step 9: Bake Until Golden
Bake the rolls at 350°F for 28 to 32 minutes, until they turn a gorgeous golden brown. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point is nothing short of heavenly and a sure sign you’re about to enjoy something truly special.
Step 10: Glaze and Finish
Whisk powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and melted butter to create the glaze. Spoon it generously over the rolls while they are still slightly warm, allowing the glaze to seep into every crevice, making each bite even more luscious.
How to Serve Lemon Poppy Seed Rolls with Lemon Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh lemon zest sprinkled on top adds a fragrant and colorful pop that complements the glaze perfectly. You can also toss a few extra poppy seeds over the glaze to enhance the texture and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
These rolls pair beautifully with a cup of freshly brewed tea or coffee for a perfect morning pick-me-up. For a brunch feast, serve alongside fresh fruit salad or a light yogurt parfait to balance the sweet and citrusy flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these rolls in a rustic wooden box or a brightly colored ceramic plate to showcase their sunny disposition. You can also drizzle extra glaze artistically around the plate and add edible flowers for a whimsical, elegant touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them soft and fresh while preserving all that wonderful lemon flavor.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these rolls later, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Warm your rolls gently in a 300°F oven for 10 to 15 minutes or microwave individually for 20 to 30 seconds to revive their softness and melt the glaze slightly for that fresh-baked feeling.
FAQs
Can I substitute buttermilk in this recipe?
Yes, you can make a buttermilk substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using.
How important is it to use fresh lemon zest?
Fresh lemon zest is key for the brightest flavor and aroma. Dried zest won’t provide the same punch, so it’s best to zest fresh lemons for this recipe.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use dairy-free milk and vegan butter substitutes to replace the buttermilk and butter, and ensure the glaze ingredients are also dairy-free.
Is it possible to prepare the dough the night before?
Yes, you can refrigerate the dough overnight after the first rise, then bring it to room temperature before rolling and filling for the next steps.
How do I know when the rolls are fully baked?
They should be golden brown on top and have a slightly firm, springy texture when gently pressed. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
Final Thoughts
Making these Lemon Poppy Seed Rolls with Lemon Glaze Recipe is such a joyful experience, and the result is beyond worth it. Trust me, once you taste their tender crumb and zesty sweetness, you’ll want to share them with everyone you know. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and bring a little sunshine into your kitchen today!
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Lemon Poppy Seed Rolls with Lemon Glaze Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 28 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Lemon Rolls are a delightful treat featuring a soft, buttery dough infused with bright lemon zest and poppy seeds, filled with a sweet and tangy lemon-sugar mixture, and topped with a luscious lemon glaze. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, they offer a refreshing citrus twist on classic sweet rolls.
Ingredients
Dough
- 4 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 4 1/2 tsp instant dry yeast
- 1 Tbsp + 1 tsp poppy seeds
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 large eggs
- 2 Tbsp lemon zest
Filling
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 2 Tbsp lemon zest
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
Icing
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 Tbsp melted butter
- Fresh lemon zest for topping
Instructions
- Preheat and combine dry ingredients: Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C) to create a warm environment for rising later. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, instant dry yeast, poppy seeds, and salt.
- Warm wet ingredients: In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, warm the buttermilk, granulated sugar, and unsalted butter until the butter is melted and the mixture is warm but not hot. Add this mixture to the dry ingredients and stir.
- Add eggs and lemon zest: Crack the eggs in one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Stir in 2 tablespoons of lemon zest to infuse the dough with fresh citrus flavor.
- Incorporate flour and let dough rest: Gradually add more flour while mixing until the dough becomes tacky but not sticky. Form into a ball and let it rest for a short period to develop gluten and allow yeast activation.
- Prepare filling: In a separate bowl, mix together the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, 2 tablespoons lemon zest, and 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter until well combined and spreadable.
- Roll out dough and spread filling: On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a 12×18 inch rectangle. Spread the prepared filling evenly across the dough surface.
- Roll and slice: Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log shape. Slice the roll into 12 equal pieces.
- Proof the rolls: Place the slices cut-side up in a prepared pan, spacing them evenly. Place the pan in the warm oven (200°F) and let the rolls rise for 30 minutes until puffy.
- Bake: Remove the rolls from the oven and increase the temperature to 350°F (177°C). Bake the rolls for 28-32 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Prepare and apply icing: While the rolls bake, whisk together powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and melted butter to make a smooth lemon glaze. After baking, allow the rolls to cool slightly before spooning the glaze generously over the top. Garnish with fresh lemon zest for extra brightness.
Notes
- Use room temperature eggs and warm buttermilk mixture to help yeast activate properly.
- To make rolling easier, lightly flour your rolling surface but avoid adding too much flour which can dry out the dough.
- For a more pronounced lemon flavor, increase the lemon zest in the filling or icing slightly.
- Make sure not to overbake the rolls; they should be golden but still soft inside.
- These rolls are best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days or frozen for longer storage.
