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#### 1. **Make the Dough:**
– In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and granulated sugar. Stir to dissolve the sugar, then sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until the yeast becomes foamy.
– In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, vanilla extract, and eggs. Add the yeast mixture and stir to combine.
– Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough is soft but not overly sticky.
– Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes on a floured surface, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook to knead the dough.
– Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
#### 2. **Prepare the Lemon Filling:**
– While the dough is rising, make the lemon filling. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, granulated sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
#### 4. **Bake the Rolls:**
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and cooked through. You can check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center of one of the rolls; it should come out clean.
– Once baked, remove the rolls from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes before frosting.
#### 5. **Make the Cream Cheese Icing:**
– While the rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese icing. In a medium-sized bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
– Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1/4 cup at a time, until fully incorporated. Add the vanilla extract and lemon juice, and mix until the icing is smooth and fluffy.
– If the icing is too thick, you can add a little more lemon juice to achieve your desired consistency.
#### 7. **Serve and Enjoy:**
– Serve the Zesty Lemon Sweet Rolls warm or at room temperature, and enjoy the sweet, tangy, and indulgent flavors. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a decadent dessert.
1. **Lemon Flavor Perfection:**
The combination of lemon zest in the filling and the fresh lemon juice in the icing gives these sweet rolls a zesty, refreshing twist. The lemon adds a bright and tangy contrast to the rich, buttery dough, creating a flavor profile that’s irresistible.
3. **Cream Cheese Icing:**
The cream cheese icing is the star of the show, offering a smooth, rich texture and tangy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the lemon filling. It brings the perfect balance to the rolls and makes them extra indulgent.
4. **Versatile and Fun:**
These rolls are not only great for breakfast or brunch but can also be served as a dessert. They are perfect for gatherings, special occasions, or just when you’re in the mood for a sweet, citrusy treat.
– **Use Fresh Lemons:** For the best flavor, always use fresh lemons for the zest and juice. The zest is where the essential oils reside, so it gives these rolls their fragrant citrus kick.
– **Don’t Overwork the Dough:** When making the dough, try not to overwork it. Over-kneading can result in dense rolls. Just knead until the dough is smooth and elastic.
– **Let the Rolls Rise Properly:** For soft, fluffy rolls, make sure to allow the dough to rise adequately during both the first and second rise. This helps the rolls achieve their light and airy texture.
– **Customize the Icing:** If you prefer a thicker or sweeter icing, you can adjust the amount of powdered sugar. You can also add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness if desired.
### Why You’ll Love These Zesty Lemon Sweet Rolls:
