Soft and Fluffy Lemon Rolls with Lemon Curd and Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
Introduction
Indulge in the delightful flavors of soft and fluffy lemon rolls with a tangy twist of lemon curd and a luscious layer of lemon cream cheese frosting. These heavenly treats are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a sweet snack. The bright and citrusy flavors of lemon combined with the pillowy texture of the rolls will surely leave you craving for more. Whether you are a lemon lover or simply looking to add some zing to your day, these lemon rolls are a must-try.
Ingredients
For the rolls:
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 package (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– Zest of 2 lemons
– Juice of 1 lemon
For the lemon curd:
– 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
– Zest of 1 lemon
For the lemon cream cheese frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
– Zest of 1 lemon
Steps
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Set aside.
2. In a small saucepan, heat the milk, water, and melted butter until warm (about 110°F). Remove from heat.
3. Add the warm milk mixture, eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the dry ingredients. Stir until a soft dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. While the dough is rising, prepare the lemon curd. In a small saucepan, whisk together the lemon juice, sugar, eggs, and lemon zest. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and stir in the butter until melted and well combined. Set aside to cool.
7. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a large rectangle on a floured surface.
8. Spread the prepared lemon curd evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
9. Starting from the long side, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal slices.
10. Place the slices in a greased baking dish, cover with a kitchen towel, and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
11. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
12. Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
13. While the rolls are baking, prepare the lemon cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy and smooth. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Continue to beat until well combined.
14. Once the rolls are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
15. Spread the lemon cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls, allowing it to melt and seep into the crevices.
Variations
The soft and fluffy lemon rolls can be customized with various additions or substitutions to suit your preferences. Here are a few ideas:
– Add a handful of fresh blueberries or raspberries to the lemon curd filling for a burst of fruity goodness.
– Sprinkle some chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, on top of the lemon cream cheese frosting for added crunch.
– Drizzle a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and lemon juice over the rolls instead of the cream cheese frosting for a lighter option.
Tips
– Make sure the milk mixture is warm, but not too hot, as it can kill the yeast.
– Let the dough rise in a warm place, such as near a window or on top of a preheated oven, to help activate the yeast and achieve a light and fluffy texture.
– Use freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest for the best flavor. Avoid using bottled lemon juice as it may contain preservatives and lack the vibrant citrusy taste.
– To easily spread the lemon curd over the dough, warm it slightly in the microwave to soften it.
– For a neat presentation, use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut the rolled dough into slices.
Conclusion
Soft and fluffy lemon rolls with lemon curd and lemon cream cheese frosting are a delightful treat that will brighten up your day. The combination of tangy lemon flavors, tender dough, and creamy frosting creates a perfect harmony of taste and texture. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or as a delicious snack, these lemon rolls are sure to satisfy your cravings and bring a burst of sunshine to your palate.
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Simply cover the dough tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, remove the dough from the refrigerator, let it come to room temperature, and continue with the remaining steps.
Can I freeze the lemon rolls?
Yes, you can freeze the baked lemon rolls. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the rolls at room temperature or warm them in a microwave or oven.
Can I use store-bought lemon curd?
While homemade lemon curd adds a fresh and vibrant flavor to the rolls, you can use store-bought lemon curd as a convenient alternative. Look for a high-quality brand that uses natural ingredients for the best taste.
