Is there anything more comforting than the aroma of freshly baked rolls wafting through your kitchen? These Zesty Lemon Poppy Seed Rolls are a burst of sunshine in every bite – soft, fluffy, and topped with the dreamiest lemon glaze. 🍋 Whether you’re hosting brunch, celebrating spring, or simply treating yourself, this recipe is a must-try! Let me take you through how to make these irresistible rolls that look as good as they taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re as obsessed with citrus desserts as I am, you’ll adore these rolls. Here’s why:
- Bright & zesty flavor: The lemon adds freshness and zing to every bite.
- Soft, pillowy texture: The dough is tender and buttery – pure perfection.
- Stunning presentation: These rolls are so pin-worthy with their glossy lemon glaze!
- Customizable: Easy to adapt with orange or lime for a twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to whip up these heavenly rolls:
For the Dough
- 3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ tsp salt
- ¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
For the Filling
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 1 ½ tbsp poppy seeds
For the Lemon Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp milk
- Optional: Extra lemon zest for garnish
Substitution Tip: No poppy seeds on hand? Swap them for chia seeds! You can also use orange or lime zest for a citrusy twist.
How to Make Zesty Lemon Poppy Seed Rolls
Step 1: Make the Dough
In a large bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy. Add melted butter, egg, and salt. Gradually mix in the flour until a dough forms. Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let rise in a warm spot until doubled in size (about 1 hour).
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
While the dough rises, mix the softened butter, sugar, lemon zest, and poppy seeds in a small bowl. Stir until combined and set aside.
Step 3: Roll, Fill, and Shape
Roll out the dough into a rectangle (about 12×16 inches). Spread the filling evenly, leaving a small border. Roll tightly from the long edge and slice into 12 equal rolls. Place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 4: Second Rise
Cover the rolls and let them rise again for 30-45 minutes, until puffy. Preheat your oven to 350°F during this time.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Let cool slightly before glazing.
Step 6: Glaze & Garnish
Whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and milk until smooth. Drizzle the glaze generously over the warm rolls. Sprinkle with extra lemon zest for a pop of color.
Pro Tips & Variations
- Tip for perfect rolls: Use dental floss to slice the dough cleanly without squishing it!
- Variation: Swap lemon for orange or lime to create different citrus rolls.
- Make ahead: Prepare the rolls the night before and let them rise in the fridge overnight. Bake fresh in the morning!
Serving & Storage Suggestions
These rolls are best served warm, straight out of the oven. Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for the ultimate treat. If you have leftovers (unlikely!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to enjoy that fresh-baked taste again.
Pin-Worthy Presentation Tips
Want these rolls to go viral on Pinterest? Here are some styling tips:
- Arrange the rolls on a rustic wooden tray or white marble plate for contrast.
- Drizzle extra glaze on top for a glossy, mouthwatering look.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of poppy seeds and a few lemon slices for a fresh, vibrant vibe.
Photo Tip: Take a close-up shot of the rolls with the glaze dripping off the sides – it’s irresistible! Natural light and a clean background work wonders for food photography.
FAQ About Lemon Poppy Seed Rolls
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes! Simply skip the proofing step and mix the instant yeast directly with the dry ingredients.
Can I freeze these rolls?
Absolutely! Freeze the baked rolls (without glaze) for up to 3 months. Thaw, reheat, and glaze before serving.
What if I don’t have fresh lemons?
No problem! You can substitute bottled lemon juice and dried lemon zest, but fresh lemons give the best flavor.
Let’s Get Baking! 🎉
Ready to bake these Zesty Lemon Poppy Seed Rolls? Trust me, they’re worth every step. Don’t forget to save this recipe to your Pinterest board and share your creations with me! Tag me on social media so I can see your gorgeous rolls. Happy baking! 🍋