Name: Lemon Sweet Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 2 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 3 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 (0.25 oz) package Platinum Yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons); 1/2 cup water; 1/4 cup milk; 2 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 large egg; 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened to room temperature); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from 1 lemon); 1/4 teaspoon salt; 4 ounces cream cheese (softened to room temperature); 1 1/4 cups powdered sugar; 1 tablespoon whole milk or heavy cream (plus more if needed); Juice of two medium lemons; Extra lemon zest for garnish (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 49 reviews

If you’re on the hunt for a bright and irresistible morning treat, these Lemon Sweet Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe will become your new go-to! Imagine soft, fluffy rolls infused with zingy lemon zest and a sweet, tangy cream cheese frosting that melts right on top. Every bite feels like a little burst of sunshine, perfectly balancing sweetness and citrus cheer. Whether it’s a weekend brunch or a special occasion, this recipe brings warmth, zest, and a touch of indulgence to your table in the most delightful way.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a metal pan filled with six cinnamon rolls, arranged in two rows of three. Each roll has a golden-brown base with visible swirls and a soft, fluffy texture. The top layer is thickly covered with creamy white icing that spreads unevenly, dripping slightly over the edges of some rolls, creating a smooth and shiny surface. The pan is placed on a white marbled texture background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, each playing a key role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color for your Lemon Sweet Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. From the creamy butter to the fresh lemon zest, every element contributes to the final masterpiece.

All-purpose flour (2 3/4 cups): The foundation for a tender, soft dough with just the right chew.
Granulated sugar (3 tablespoons + 1 cup): Adds sweetness to both the dough and sweet lemon filling.
Salt (1 teaspoon + 1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness perfectly.
Platinum yeast (1 packet or 2 1/4 teaspoons): For that perfect fluffy rise every roll needs.
Water (1/2 cup) and Milk (1/4 cup): Warm liquids that activate the yeast and add moisture to the dough.
Unsalted butter (2 1/2 tablespoons + 1/4 cup soft): Melted butter enriches the dough; softened butter helps create the luscious lemon filling.
Large egg (1): Binds and enriches the dough for a tender crumb.
Lemon zest (1 tablespoon + extra): Provides fragrant citrus notes that shine throughout the rolls and frosting.
Cream cheese (4 ounces, softened): The star of the frosting, giving it creamy tang that pairs beautifully with the lemon.
Powdered sugar (1 1/4 cups): Sweetens and smooths the frosting for a melt-in-your-mouth finish.
Whole milk or heavy cream (1 tablespoon): Adds the perfect consistency to the frosting.
Juice of two medium lemons: Brings fresh, lively acidity to the frosting that’s hard to resist.

How to Make Lemon Sweet Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Roll Dough

Begin by setting aside 1/2 cup of flour for later. In a large bowl, whisk together the remaining flour, sugar, salt, and yeast until evenly combined. This dry mix forms the base of your dough and ensures the yeast is well distributed.

Step 2: Activate the Ingredients

Using your microwave, melt the butter and then add water and milk, warming the mixture until it’s hot to the touch, around 120 to 130 degrees Fahrenheit. This warmth wakes up the yeast and helps the dough rise beautifully without killing the yeast cells.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the warm butter mixture into the flour mixture and stir until everything starts to come together. Add the egg, then begin adding the reserved flour a tablespoon at a time to form a soft, elastic dough that gently pulls away from the bowl’s edges — this signals your dough is ready for kneading.

Step 4: Knead and Rest the Dough

Transfer your dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 3 to 4 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough into a greased bowl, cover it with saran wrap, and let it rest for 10 minutes — this rest allows gluten to relax for easier shaping later.

Step 5: Prepare the Zesty Lemon Filling

Mix granulated sugar, lemon zest, and a touch of vanilla extract in a medium bowl until the mixture feels sandy. This bright, citrusy filling will infuse your rolls with a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavor.

Step 6: Shape the Rolls

Roll your dough out on a floured surface to a 14-by-8-inch rectangle. Spread the softened butter evenly on the dough, then sprinkle the lemon sugar filling all over. Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log like wrapping a delicious lemon gift.

Step 7: Slice and Arrange

Cut the rolled log into 9 to 12 even slices and arrange them in a greased 9-inch pan, either round or square. Sprinkle a little extra lemon zest on top for a hint of fresh citrus aroma as they bake.

Step 8: Let the Rolls Rise

Cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap or foil and place it in a warm, draft-free spot. Let the rolls rise until they double in size, which usually takes about 60 to 90 minutes. This second rise ensures your rolls turn out fluffy and light.

Step 9: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Bake the rolls for 25 to 30 minutes until just lightly browned. To avoid over-browning, cover the rolls loosely with aluminum foil after 15 minutes. The result will be rolls that are golden but soft and tender inside.

Step 10: Whip Up the Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

While the rolls bake, use a mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Slowly add powdered sugar, milk or cream, and freshly squeezed lemon juice, then beat until creamy and spreadable. This frosting brings a luscious, tangy finish to your warm sweet rolls.

Step 11: Frost and Garnish

Spread the frosting over warm rolls generously. Sprinkle extra lemon zest on top if you want a pop of vibrant color and aroma. Serve immediately for the best gooey, creamy experience that’s sure to brighten your morning.

How to Serve Lemon Sweet Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

A close-up view of a metal baking pan containing soft, light golden rolls arranged in a single layer, each roll topped with a thick layer of smooth, white icing that drips slightly into the gaps between the rolls. One roll has been removed, showing the fluffy, airy texture inside with a moist crumb. The pan sits on a white marbled surface with a patterned cloth partially visible on one side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest over the cream cheese frosting not only looks beautiful but also enhances the citrus aroma, giving each bite a fresh, zesty burst that complements the sweet and tangy flavors perfectly.

Side Dishes

These rolls pair wonderfully with a cup of strong coffee or a light herbal tea, like chamomile or green tea, to balance sweetness. Fresh fruit salads or yogurt parfaits can add a refreshing, healthful complement to your indulgent lemon rolls.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning brunch centerpiece, arrange your Lemon Sweet Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe on a decorative platter and surround it with edible flowers or thin lemon slices. You can also drizzle a little additional lemon glaze or honey across the top for an extra touch of elegance.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any uneaten rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them soft and fresh. For the best flavor, allow them to come to room temperature before serving again.

Freezing

To keep these rolls fresh longer, freeze them before frosting. Place slices on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before warming and frosting.

Reheating

Reheat rolls gently in a microwave for about 20 seconds or in a warm oven at 300°F for 5 to 8 minutes. Then, spread fresh cream cheese frosting on top for a near-fresh-out-of-the-oven experience.

FAQs

Can I use regular active dry yeast instead of Platinum yeast?

Absolutely! Just make sure to activate it in warm water before adding to ensure your rolls rise well. The key is keeping the water temperature between 105-110°F to keep yeast alive.

How important is the lemon zest in the recipe?

Lemon zest brings an intense fragrance and bright citrus flavor that you can’t get from lemon juice alone. It’s essential for that signature zing in these Lemon Sweet Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe.

Can I make the dough in a stand mixer?

Yes, using a stand mixer with a dough hook makes kneading easier and faster. Mix on low speed until the dough is smooth and elastic, then proceed with rising as directed.

Is cream cheese frosting necessary?

While you can enjoy these rolls plain or with a simple glaze, the cream cheese frosting adds a luscious tangy contrast that elevates the entire experience — it’s what makes this recipe truly special.

How do I prevent the rolls from drying out?

Keep them covered while rising and store in airtight containers after baking. Frosting helps seal in moisture, so apply it while rolls are still warm for maximum softness.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like waking up to the aroma of freshly baked Lemon Sweet Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe filling your home. They’re a bright, joyful treat that’s both comforting and refreshing. I promise once you try making these, you’ll want to share them with everyone you know. So don your apron, gather those simple ingredients, and treat yourself to a batch of sunshine that’s impossible to resist!