Irresistible Lemon Cream Cheese Rolls

I remember the first time I baked lemon cream cheese rolls because it was a rainy afternoon when I wanted to bring a bit of sunshine into my kitchen so I decided to mix the tangy brightness of lemons with the comforting sweetness of cream cheese and soft dough so the result filled my home with an aroma so irresistible that my family couldn’t wait for them to cool before taking the first bite.

These rolls became a weekend tradition because every time I make them the zesty glaze and the creamy filling create a perfect balance that keeps everyone coming back for more so whether it’s for brunch or an afternoon treat these rolls never fail to impress and bring smiles to the table.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe and you can always adjust flavors to your taste!

• All-purpose flour – Gives structure to the dough and creates a soft roll texture.
• Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps with browning.
• Active dry yeast – Ensures the dough rises beautifully and becomes fluffy.
• Milk – Warms the dough and adds richness.
• Butter – Adds tenderness and a rich buttery flavor.
• Eggs – Bind the dough and enhance its softness.
• Cream cheese – Creates the creamy filling that melts inside the rolls.
• Powdered sugar – Sweetens the glaze and blends smoothly.
• Lemon zest – Brings fresh citrus aroma and flavor.
• Lemon juice – Adds tangy brightness to both filling and glaze.

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls – For combining dry and wet ingredients separately.
• Stand mixer with dough hook – Makes kneading the dough easier and more consistent.
• Rolling pin – Helps to roll out the dough evenly.
• Baking dish – Holds the rolls snugly so they bake up soft and tall.
• Zester – Essential for extracting fragrant lemon zest.
• Whisk – Perfect for making a smooth glaze.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

I start by warming the milk slightly and mixing it with sugar and yeast so I let it sit until it becomes frothy because that means the yeast is active and ready.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

I add the melted butter, eggs, and a pinch of salt then gradually mix in the flour until the dough comes together so I knead it for about eight minutes until it is smooth and elastic.

Step 3: First Rise

I place the dough in an oiled bowl and cover it with a cloth then I let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour until it doubles in size.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

While the dough rises I beat the cream cheese with powdered sugar, lemon zest, and a splash of lemon juice so the filling becomes creamy and fragrant.

Step 5: Roll and Fill

Once the dough has risen I roll it into a rectangle then I spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over it and roll it up tightly before cutting it into slices.

Step 6: Second Rise

I arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish and cover them so I let them rise again for about thirty minutes until they puff up beautifully.

Step 7: Bake

I bake the rolls at 350°F (175°C) for about twenty-five minutes until they are golden and cooked through.

Step 8: Glaze and Serve

While still warm I drizzle them with a glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice and sprinkle extra zest for a fresh finish.

Tips

I sometimes add a little vanilla extract to the glaze for extra flavor and if you prefer a stronger citrus punch I use more zest in the filling. I also like to brush the baked rolls with melted butter before glazing to keep them extra soft.

Ways to Serve

These lemon cream cheese rolls are perfect with a cup of tea or coffee for breakfast and they make a beautiful addition to brunch spreads and they’re also fantastic as a sweet treat for special occasions like Easter or Mother’s Day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Lemon Cream Cheese Rolls ahead of time?

Yes you can assemble them the night before and refrigerate them then bake in the morning.

Can I freeze Lemon Cream Cheese Rolls?

Absolutely freeze them after baking then reheat and glaze when ready to serve.

Can I use bottled lemon juice for Lemon Cream Cheese Rolls?

Fresh lemon juice is best because it gives a brighter flavor but bottled juice works in a pinch.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you try these irresistible lemon cream cheese rolls because they are soft creamy and bursting with citrus goodness so I can’t wait to hear how much you love them and share your experience with me.

Happy Cooking!

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