Description
Bright, zesty, and irresistibly soft, these Fluffy Lemon Poppy Seed Sweet Rolls are the ultimate spring-inspired treat. With a tender, pillowy dough wrapped around a lemony poppy seed filling and topped with a light citrus glaze, they’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or anytime you want to bring a little sunshine to your kitchen.
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Ingredients
For the Dough:
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¾ cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
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2¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
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¼ cup granulated sugar
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1 large egg
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¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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2¾ cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
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½ tsp salt
For the Lemon Poppy Seed Filling:
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⅓ cup unsalted butter, softened
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⅓ cup sugar
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2 tbsp fresh lemon zest (about 2 lemons)
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2 tbsp lemon juice
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1 tbsp poppy seeds
For the Lemon Glaze:
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1 cup powdered sugar
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2–3 tbsp lemon juice
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½ tsp vanilla extract
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Optional: extra lemon zest for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk warm milk with sugar and sprinkle in yeast.
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Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Step 2: Make the Dough
3. Add melted butter, egg, vanilla, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir to combine.
4. Gradually mix in flour until a soft dough forms.
5. Knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic (by hand or with a dough hook).
6. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 60–90 minutes or until doubled in size.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Filling
7. In a small bowl, mix softened butter with sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and poppy seeds.
8. Stir until creamy and well combined.
Step 4: Roll and Fill the Dough
9. On a lightly floured surface, roll dough into a 16×12 inch rectangle.
10. Spread lemon poppy seed filling evenly over the dough.
11. Roll up tightly from the long side, then slice into 12 even rolls.
Step 5: Second Rise
12. Place rolls in a greased baking dish. Cover loosely and let rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
13. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 6: Bake the Rolls
14. Bake for 22–26 minutes, until golden and cooked through.
15. Let cool slightly while you make the glaze.
Step 7: Glaze and Serve
16. In a bowl, whisk powdered sugar with lemon juice and vanilla until smooth.
17. Drizzle over warm rolls and top with extra zest if desired.
18. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Use Fresh Lemons – Fresh zest and juice make the flavor pop.
Don’t Overbake – Bake just until golden to keep them soft.
Even Slicing – Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut clean rolls.
Chill Overnight – Assemble and chill before the second rise to bake in the morning.
Let Them Cool Slightly – Glaze sticks better when rolls aren’t too hot.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Cuisine: American – Sweet Breads