Description
If you’re a fan of bright citrus flavor and soft, buttery pastries, these Fluffy Lemon Poppy Seed Sweet Rolls are a must-try. Imagine the zing of fresh lemon, the gentle crunch of poppy seeds, and soft pillowy dough all swirled together and finished with a tangy lemon glaze. These rolls are the perfect addition to your brunch table, afternoon tea, or a cozy morning treat.
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Ingredients
For the Dough:
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3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
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¼ cup granulated sugar
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2 ¼ tsp instant yeast
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½ tsp salt
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¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F)
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2 large eggs, room temperature
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⅓ cup unsalted butter, softened
For the Lemon Poppy Seed Filling:
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⅓ cup unsalted butter, softened
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½ cup granulated sugar
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2 tbsp lemon zest (from 2–3 lemons)
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2 tbsp fresh 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 fresh lemon juice
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1 tsp lemon zest
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1 tbsp milk or cream (optional, for consistency)
Optional Garnish:
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Extra lemon zest
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A sprinkle of poppy seeds
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Dough
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In a large bowl or stand mixer, mix flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
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Add warm milk, eggs, and softened butter. Mix until a soft dough forms.
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Knead for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
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Place dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
5. In a small bowl, mix softened butter, sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and poppy seeds until well combined.
6. Set aside at room temperature while the dough rises.
Step 3: Roll Out and Fill the Dough
7. Once risen, turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
8. Roll into a 16×12 inch rectangle.
9. Spread the lemon poppy seed filling evenly over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border around the edges.
Step 4: Roll and Slice
10. Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log.
11. Slice into 12 equal rolls using a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss.
12. Place rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
Step 5: Second Rise
13. Cover and let the rolls rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
Overnight Option: Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate. In the morning, let rise at room temp for 45–60 minutes before baking.
Step 6: Bake
14. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
15. Bake the rolls for 25–28 minutes, until lightly golden and cooked through.
16. Allow to cool slightly before glazing.
Step 7: Glaze and Garnish
17. Whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, zest, and milk (if needed) to form a thick but pourable glaze.
18. Drizzle over warm rolls and top with a sprinkle of extra zest or poppy seeds.
19. Serve warm and enjoy every zesty, fluffy bite!
Notes
Use Room Temperature Ingredients – This helps the dough rise evenly and creates a soft texture.
Zest First – Always zest lemons before juicing for maximum flavor.
Don’t Overbake – Bake until just golden; overbaking will dry them out.
Let the Glaze Sink In – Glazing while warm lets the flavor soak into the rolls.
Make It Your Own – Add a layer of cream cheese under the filling for extra richness.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 28 minutes
- Cuisine: American with a citrus twist