Lemon Blueberry Sweet Rolls Recipe

Why You’ll Love Lemon Blueberry Sweet Rolls Recipe

Lemon and blueberry are a match made in heaven, and this recipe elevates that pairing to a whole new level. The fresh, vibrant flavors of lemon zest and blueberries are woven into soft, pillowy rolls that are just as delicious as they are visually stunning. The tangy lemon glaze on top adds the perfect finishing touch to these sweet rolls, making them a delightful breakfast or dessert option for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them to guests or enjoying them yourself, these rolls are sure to bring smiles all around!

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 1 package (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast

• ½ cup warm milk (110°F)

• ¼ cup sugar

• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1 tsp salt

• 2 large eggs

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour

For the Blueberry Filling:

• 1 cup fresh blueberries (or frozen, thawed)

• ¼ cup sugar

• 2 tbsp cornstarch

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

For the Lemon Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

• 1 tbsp milk

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in the warm milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

2. In a large bowl, mix the melted butter, eggs, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and stir to combine.

3. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, and mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

5. While the dough is rising, make the blueberry filling. In a small saucepan, combine the blueberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and the blueberries release their juices. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

6. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a 12×18-inch rectangle.

7. Spread the blueberry filling evenly over the dough, leaving about ½ inch around the edges.

8. Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Slice it into 12 rolls and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

9. Cover the dish with a kitchen towel and let the rolls rise for 30-45 minutes.

10. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the rolls have risen, bake them for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

11. While the rolls are baking, prepare the lemon glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and milk until smooth.

12. When the rolls are done, remove them from the oven and drizzle the lemon glaze over the top while they are still warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 rolls

• Prep time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including rise time)

• Cook time: 20-25 minutes

• Total time: 2 hours

Variations

1. Blueberry Jam: If you’re short on fresh blueberries, you can use blueberry jam or preserves as a filling.

2. Cream Cheese Filling: For a creamier option, add a cream cheese filling mixed with powdered sugar, lemon zest, and vanilla to the rolls before rolling them up.

3. Lemon Zest: Add more lemon zest into the dough or filling for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

4. Mixed Berries: Feel free to swap the blueberries with raspberries, blackberries, or a mixed berry blend for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the rolls in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use frozen blueberries for these sweet rolls?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries, just be sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture in the filling.

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the rolls up to the point of baking. Cover them tightly and refrigerate overnight, then bake them the next morning. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Can I freeze the rolls after baking?

Yes, you can freeze the baked rolls. Let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven.

Can I use a bread machine for this recipe?

Yes, you can use a bread machine to mix and knead the dough. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for dough setting and proceed with the rest of the recipe.

Can I substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend?

Yes, you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend that is designed for baking. Be sure to follow any specific instructions on the flour package for best results.

How do I get the rolls to rise properly?

Make sure the dough is placed in a warm, draft-free area for rising. You can create a warm environment by placing the bowl with dough in an oven with just the light on or on top of the fridge.

Can I make these without the lemon glaze?

Yes, the rolls are delicious on their own, but the lemon glaze adds a wonderful tangy sweetness. If you prefer, you can skip it or substitute it with a simple powdered sugar glaze.

How can I prevent the rolls from sticking to the pan?

Grease the baking pan well or line it with parchment paper to prevent the rolls from sticking.

Can I use a different fruit for the filling?

Yes, you can use other fruits like strawberries, raspberries, or blackberries, or even a combination of berries for a different flavor.

Are these rolls suitable for a vegetarian diet?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian. However, if you’re looking for a vegan version, you can substitute dairy products (like butter and milk) with plant-based alternatives.

Conclusion

Lemon Blueberry Sweet Rolls are a wonderfully indulgent treat that combines the bright, refreshing flavors of lemon and blueberries with soft, fluffy dough. Whether served for breakfast, brunch, or as a dessert, these rolls are sure to impress your guests and become a beloved addition to your recipe collection. The combination of the tangy lemon glaze and the sweet blueberry filling makes them a truly irresistible snack!