Soft Lemon Rolls

Ingredients

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast)
• 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 –3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Instructions

1. 1

   --- Prepare the Dough: ---

2. 2

   In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast.

3. 3

   Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes, or until it turns foamy.

4. 4

   Stir in the melted butter, egg, vanilla extract, and salt.

5. 5

   Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.

6. 6

   --- Knead the Dough: ---

7. 7

   Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth and slightly sticky.

8. 8

   Transfer to a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

9. 9

   --- Prepare the Filling: ---

10. 10

    While the dough is rising, mix together softened butter, sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth and creamy.

11. 11

    --- Roll and Fill the Dough: ---

12. 12

    Once risen, roll the dough out on a floured surface into a 12x18-inch rectangle.

13. 13

    Spread the lemon filling evenly over the surface.

14. 14

    --- Shape the Rolls: ---

15. 15

    Roll the dough tightly into a log starting from the long side.

16. 16

    Slice the log into 12 equal rolls and place them in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.

17. 17

    --- Second Rise: ---

18. 18

    Cover the baking dish with a towel and let the rolls rise for another 30 minutes, or until puffy.

19. 19

    --- Bake the Rolls: ---

20. 20

    Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

21. 21

    Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

22. 22

    --- Prepare the Glaze: ---

23. 23

    In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth and pourable.

24. 24

    --- Glaze and Serve: ---

25. 25

    Drizzle the lemon glaze over the warm rolls.

26. 26

    Serve immediately and enjoy!