Go Back

Lemon Cinnamon Rolls

These Lemon Cinnamon Rolls are soft, gooey, and full of bright citrus flavor! A fun twist on classic cinnamon rolls, they have a zesty lemon-sugar filling and a tangy lemon glaze that takes them over the top. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat any time of day!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 12 Rolls
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Dough:
  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 ¼ tsp 1 packet instant yeast
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¾ cup warm milk about 110°F
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter melted
  • 1 large egg
  • Zest of 1 lemon
For the Filling:
  • ⅔ cup brown sugar
  • 2 tsp cinnamon
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter softened
  • Zest of 1 lemon
For the Lemon Glaze:
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp melted butter
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract

Method
 

Step 1: Make the Dough
  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
  2. Add warm milk, melted butter, egg, and lemon zest. Stir to combine.
  3. Knead the dough for 8 minutes by hand or 5 minutes in a stand mixer until smooth and slightly sticky.
  4. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
  1. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon zest.
  2. Roll out the dough into a 12x18-inch rectangle on a floured surface.
  3. Spread softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Step 3: Roll & Slice
  1. Roll up the dough tightly from the long side.
  2. Cut into 12 equal slices and place them in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
  3. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes.
Step 4: Bake
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Step 5: Make the Glaze & Serve
  1. Whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, melted butter, and vanilla until smooth.
  2. Drizzle over warm cinnamon rolls and enjoy!

Notes

  • Store: Keep in an airtight container at room temp for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
  • Reheat: Microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm in the oven at 300°F for 5-10 minutes.
  • Freeze: Wrap rolls individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.