Lemon Curd Sweet Rolls

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Introduction

Lemon Curd Sweet Rolls are the perfect combination of light, fluffy dough and tangy, sweet lemon curd, offering an irresistible burst of flavor in every bite. These rolls are everything you love about a fresh-baked pastry, with the added brightness of citrus to balance out the sweetness. The dough is soft and airy, almost pillowy, while the lemon curd filling is creamy and zesty, making them a treat that feels both indulgent and refreshing. The gentle sweetness from the glaze on top complements the tartness of the lemon, creating a dessert that’s light but deeply satisfying.

This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it was inspired by a lazy Sunday morning when I was craving something citrusy and comforting. As the rolls bake, the entire house fills with the warm scent of lemon and dough, creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere. When you break into one of these rolls, the lemon curd oozes out, making it hard to resist. The combination of the tangy filling and sweet glaze makes these rolls truly special.

Lemon Curd Sweet Rolls are perfect for mornings when you want something a little more luxurious than a regular breakfast pastry, but still light enough to feel like an uplifting start to your day. Whether paired with a hot cup of tea or enjoyed on their own, they’re a delightful treat that will have everyone asking for more. If you’re looking for a sweet pastry with a tangy twist, these rolls are the one to try!

Perfect for:

• Brunch gatherings
• Special breakfast occasions
• Citrus lovers
• Holiday mornings
• Sweet roll fans

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright and Tangy: The homemade lemon curd filling gives these sweet rolls a fresh, citrus burst in every bite.
• Soft and Fluffy: The sweet roll dough is light, soft, and tender, making these rolls irresistible.
• Elevated Comfort Food: They’re easy to make yet feel indulgent and special, perfect for serving guests or family.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the dough in advance, making these rolls a convenient option for busy mornings.
• Customizable: You can adjust the sweetness or lemon intensity to match your preferences.

Preparation and Baking Time

• Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 45 minutes
• Proofing Time: 1 hour
• Baking Time: 25 minutes
• Cooling Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 12 rolls
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
• 1 cup whole milk, warm
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Lemon Curd Filling:

• 1 cup lemon curd (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to sweeten curd if needed)

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon milk or heavy cream

Ingredient Highlights:

• Lemon Curd: This provides the tart and sweet filling that gives the rolls their unique and refreshing flavor.
• Butter and Eggs: They make the dough rich, soft, and tender.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth of flavor to the dough and balances the lemon’s brightness.
• Milk: Helps create a soft dough and adds moisture to the rolls.

Step-by-Step

Instructions

Prepare the Dough:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk (about 110°F) with the sugar and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until a dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. First Proofing: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Prepare the Rolls:

5. Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it into a 12×18-inch rectangle.
6. Spread the Lemon Curd: Evenly spread the lemon curd over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. If desired, sprinkle a little sugar on top for added sweetness.
7. Roll and Cut the Dough: Carefully roll the dough into a log, starting from one long side. Slice the roll into 12 equal pieces.
8. Second Proofing: Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spacing them closely together. Cover and let them rise for another 30-40 minutes.

Bake the Rolls:

9. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
10. Bake the Rolls: Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown on top and cooked through.

Prepare the Glaze:

11. Make the Glaze: While the rolls are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and milk or cream in a small bowl until smooth.
12. Glaze the Rolls: Once the rolls have cooled for about 10-15 minutes, drizzle the glaze over the top of the rolls.

How to Serve

• Warm: Serve the rolls while they’re still warm for the best melt-in-your-mouth experience.
• With Extra Lemon Curd: For an extra citrus punch, serve with a side of additional lemon curd for dipping.
• As a Dessert: Pair with a light tea or coffee for a delicious dessert option.
• With Fresh Berries: Garnish with fresh raspberries or blueberries for an added touch of color and flavor.

Additional Tips

• Let the Rolls Rise Properly: The dough will need enough time to rise, so be patient for both the first and second proofing stages.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the eggs, butter, and milk are at room temperature for the best dough consistency.
• Prevent Leaking Filling: Roll the dough tightly and seal the edges to prevent the lemon curd from leaking out during baking.
• Sweetness Level: Taste the lemon curd before using it—if it’s too tart, add a tablespoon of sugar to balance the flavors.
• Use Fresh Lemon Curd: For the best flavor, use fresh homemade lemon curd, but store-bought works fine in a pinch.

Recipe Variations

1. Berry Lemon Curd Rolls: Add fresh berries to the lemon curd before spreading it on the dough for an extra fruity twist.
2. Cream Cheese Glaze: Swap the lemon glaze for a tangy cream cheese glaze for a different flavor profile.
3. Orange Curd Rolls: Substitute lemon curd with orange curd for a citrusy variation.
4. Vegan Version: Use non-dairy milk, vegan butter, and a flax egg to make these rolls vegan-friendly.
5. Gluten-Free Version: Substitute gluten-free flour for regular flour for a gluten-free treat.
6. Lemon Poppy Seed Rolls: Add a tablespoon of poppy seeds to the dough or filling for a crunchy texture.
7. Lemon Blueberry Sweet Rolls: Add blueberries to the lemon curd mixture for an extra burst of flavor.
8. Cinnamon Lemon Rolls: Swirl cinnamon into the dough before rolling for a spiced twist on this classic.
9. Caramelized Lemon Rolls: Brush the dough with butter and sprinkle sugar before rolling for a caramelized crust.
10. Chocolate Lemon Rolls: Add a layer of dark chocolate chips between the dough and lemon curd for a decadent combination.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: These rolls freeze well. Wrap the baked rolls tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes before serving.

Special Equipment

1. Electric Mixer: For easier dough mixing and kneading.
2. Rolling Pin: Essential for rolling out the dough evenly.
3. 9×13-inch Baking Dish: Ideal for baking the rolls in a close-knit arrangement.
4. Whisk: To prepare the glaze smoothly.
5. Pastry Brush: To spread melted butter on the dough if desired.
6. Offset Spatula: For evenly spreading the lemon curd.
7. Dough Scraper: Helps in cutting and shaping the rolls neatly.

FAQ Section

1. Can I make these rolls the night before?
   Yes, you can prepare the dough, shape the rolls, and refrigerate them overnight for a quicker morning bake.
2. Can I use store-bought lemon curd?
   Yes, store-bought lemon curd is perfectly fine for this recipe.
3. How can I make these rolls less sweet?
   Reduce the amount of sugar in the dough or glaze for a less sweet option.
4. Can I use a different type of citrus?
   Yes, orange or lime curd can be substituted for lemon curd for a unique flavor.
5. How do I prevent the rolls from getting soggy?
   Make sure the rolls are fully cooled before glazing to prevent the glaze from soaking into the dough.
6. Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
   Yes, bake them in advance and reheat in the oven before serving.
7. What if the dough doesn’t rise properly?
   Make sure the yeast is fresh, and check that your kitchen is warm enough for the dough to rise.
8. Can I use a stand mixer for the dough?
   Yes, a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment will make the mixing and kneading process easier.
9. How long can I store the rolls?
   These rolls can be stored for up to 2 days at room temperature or frozen for up to 2 months.

Conclusion

Lemon Curd Sweet Rolls are the perfect indulgence to brighten your mornings and add a touch of elegance to any breakfast or brunch spread. These soft, fluffy rolls are filled with a tangy-sweet lemon curd that creates a burst of flavor in every bite, making them irresistible from the first taste to the last.

What truly sets this recipe apart is the harmonious balance between the bright citrus notes of the lemon curd and the tender, pillowy texture of the rolls. Whether enjoyed with a steaming cup of coffee or shared with loved ones on a weekend morning, these sweet rolls offer a delightful way to kick off your day.

The versatility of this recipe also allows for creative variations—try adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness or a drizzle of fresh lemon glaze for even more citrusy goodness. Lemon Curd Sweet Rolls are sure to become a favorite, whether you’re serving them at a special occasion or enjoying them as a treat during a cozy breakfast. I can’t wait for you to experience the joy these rolls bring to your table. Don’t forget to share your creations with me—I love seeing how you put your own twist on this recipe! Enjoy every delicious bite!