Easy Lemon Rolls Recipe

Get ready to meet your new favorite morning treat: Easy Lemon Rolls. These sweet, tangy, and oh-so-fluffy rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or anytime you need a citrusy pick-me-up.

I absolutely love anything made with lemons! These delicious rolls are made with a lemon cake mix and topped with a zesty cream cheese icing– they are a sunshine-filled delight. Let’s get rolling!

FAQs

Q: Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the rolls the night before, let them rise, and then bake them in the morning for fresh, warm rolls.

Q: Can I use regular yeast instead of rapid rise yeast?
A: Yes, you can use regular yeast. Just make sure to let the dough rise until it has doubled in size.

Q: What can I use instead of lemon instant pudding?
A: If you can’t find lemon instant pudding, you can substitute with vanilla instant pudding and add extra lemon zest for that tangy flavor.

Q: How do I know when the rolls are done baking?
A: The rolls should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped. You can also insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, they are done.

Ingredients

• Lemon cake mix
• Rapid rise yeast
• Warm water
• Salt
• Flour
• Butter (soft)
• Sugar
• Lemon zest
• Lemon instant pudding
• Cream cheese (soft)
• Lemon juice
• Powdered sugar
• Milk

Why Each Ingredient is Needed

Lemon Cake Mix: Forms the base of our dough, giving it a sweet, lemony flavor.
Rapid Rise Yeast: Helps the dough rise quickly and become fluffy.
Warm Water: Activates the yeast and helps form the dough.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
Flour: Provides structure to the dough.
Butter: Adds richness and moisture to both the dough and the filling.
Sugar: Sweetens the rolls and caramelizes during baking.
Lemon Zest: Infuses the rolls with a fresh, vibrant lemon flavor.
Lemon Instant Pudding: Adds moisture and an extra boost of lemon flavor to the filling.
Cream Cheese: Creates a tangy, creamy frosting.
Lemon Juice: Adds a bright, tangy kick to the frosting.
Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
Milk: Helps achieve the perfect frosting consistency.

Fun Places to Serve These Rolls

• Brunch with Friends: Serve these rolls at your next brunch gathering for a sweet start to the day.
• Picnics in the Park: Pack them up for a delightful treat during your outdoor adventures.
• Baby Showers: These lemony delights are perfect for celebrating new beginnings.
• Coffee Mornings: Pair them with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful morning treat.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to a week. You can also freeze the rolls for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let them cool completely before freezing. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them up in the oven.

Tips for Making This Recipe with Kids

• Mixing the Dough: Let the kids help mix the dough. It’s a fun and messy activity they’ll enjoy.
• Zesting the Lemon: Show the kids how to zest a lemon safely. They’ll love the fresh citrus smell!
• Spreading the Filling: Have the kids spread the butter, sugar, and pudding mix over the dough. It’s like frosting a big cake!
• Rolling the Dough: Rolling up the dough is like making a giant lemony Swiss roll. Kids will love this part!
• Decorating the Rolls: Let the kids drizzle or spread the frosting on the baked rolls. They can get creative with the patterns!

Why This Recipe Works

This Easy Lemon Rolls recipe is a winner because it combines the convenience of a cake mix with the fun of making homemade rolls. The rapid rise yeast ensures that the dough rises quickly, so you don’t have to wait long to enjoy these delicious treats. The lemon zest and pudding mix infuse the rolls with a bright, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweet, creamy frosting.

Here are some more delicious lemon recipes to try!