Name: Gooey Lemon Rolls with Fluffy Centers and Lemon Icing Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 28 min
Total time: 1 h 28 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 1/4 cups all-purpose flour plus additional for kneading (530g); 4 1/2 tsp instant dry yeast (14g, 2 packets); 1 Tbsp + 1 tsp poppy seeds (optional); 1 tsp fine salt (6g); 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature (240g); 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100g); 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature (113g); 2 large eggs, room temperature (112g); 2 Tbsp fresh lemon zest (from about 2 large lemons) (6g); 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100g); 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar (100g); 2 Tbsp fresh lemon zest (from about 2 large lemons) (6g); 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (113g); 2 cups powdered sugar (250g); 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (60g); 2 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted (28g); Fresh lemon zest for garnish

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 12 reviews

If you are on the lookout for a bright, sweet treat that feels like sunshine baked right into dough, then you must try this Gooey Lemon Rolls with Fluffy Centers and Lemon Icing Recipe. These rolls are amazingly soft with a luscious, gooey center that melts in your mouth, and the lemon icing ties all the flavors together perfectly with a zingy finish. Ideal for summer breakfasts or brunch gatherings, they bring a fresh citrus burst that’s simply irresistible. Once you make these once, you’ll understand why they quickly become a beloved favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl filled with a pale yellow, creamy batter that has a soft, smooth texture with some small lumps, sitting on a white marbled surface. Inside the bowl, a metal whisk with a white handle and small floral designs is resting, partly covered with the batter. Around the bowl, there are parts of a yellow lemon and a brown egg visible on the white marbled surface. The scene is bright with natural light. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic behind this Gooey Lemon Rolls with Fluffy Centers and Lemon Icing Recipe lies in a handful of simple but essential ingredients. Each component plays a vital role, from the tender, tangy buttermilk dough to the bright and buttery lemon filling and icing that lend incredible flavor and beautiful texture.

All-purpose flour: The sturdy base of our dough that creates that soft but structured roll.
Instant dry yeast: Helps the dough rise to fluffy perfection, giving those airy centers we crave.
Poppy seeds (optional): Adds a subtle crunch and visual appeal that makes the rolls more interesting.
Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor depth.
Buttermilk: Provides moisture and a slight tang that complements lemon beautifully.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and filling just right without overpowering the lemon.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and tenderness to both dough and filling.
Large eggs: Help bind everything together while contributing to a soft crumb.
Fresh lemon zest: The star ingredient, bursting with citrus oils for intense lemon flavor.
Light brown sugar: Adds depth and a hint of caramel to the filling’s sweetness.
Powdered sugar: Forms the base of the luscious lemon icing that’s smooth and creamy.
Fresh lemon juice: Gives the icing its refreshing tartness that cuts through the richness.

How to Make Gooey Lemon Rolls with Fluffy Centers and Lemon Icing Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by combining flour, yeast, poppy seeds (if using), and salt in a large mixing bowl or your stand mixer bowl. Warm buttermilk, sugar, and butter until the butter is mostly melted but the mixture is not hot. Pour this warm mixture into the dry ingredients, then mix thoroughly. Slowly add in eggs one at a time, mixing until the dough becomes elastic yet sticky. Incorporate fresh lemon zest for that vibrant lemon hit. Add a little more flour as needed until the dough pulls away from the bowl slightly but still feels tacky. Cover and let it rest—this step helps develop the perfect dough texture for rolling.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Filling

While your dough rests, whisk together granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and fresh lemon zest. Rubbing the zest into the sugar intensifies the citrus aroma. Then add softened butter and mix until a creamy spread is formed. This luscious filling will melt into the dough as it bakes, creating pockets of gooey, tangy delight in every bite.

Step 3: Roll, Fill, and Slice

Roll your rested dough into a large rectangle—aim for about 12 x 18 inches and half a centimeter thick. Spread the lemon filling evenly, leaving a small strip uncovered on one long edge to help seal the roll. Carefully roll the dough up tightly, then slice into 12 even pieces using dental floss for clean cuts.

Step 4: The Rise in the Oven

Place the rolls in a greased or parchment-lined 9×13-inch pan and cover them with foil. Turn your oven off and slide the pan inside for about 30 minutes. This gentle, warm environment encourages the rolls to rise beautifully before baking, which is crucial for those irresistibly fluffy centers.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Remove the foil and heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 28 to 32 minutes or until they’re golden brown on top and baked through. That gorgeous color means caramelized sugars and butter, adding to the beautiful contrast of flavors and textures.

Step 6: Prepare the Lemon Icing

While the rolls cool slightly, whisk together powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and melted butter to create the lemon icing. This simple but flavorful glaze is the final touch, soaking into the warm rolls and tying the whole Gooey Lemon Rolls with Fluffy Centers and Lemon Icing Recipe together with its creamy, tangy brightness.

Step 7: Glaze and Garnish

Drizzle the icing over the warm rolls, then sprinkle with extra fresh lemon zest for a little zing and pretty finishing touch. Serve warm to enjoy that gooey center and fluffy texture at their absolute best.

How to Serve Gooey Lemon Rolls with Fluffy Centers and Lemon Icing Recipe

A close-up view of a tray filled with soft cinnamon rolls covered in thick white icing, each roll showing a golden-brown spiral with light textures and small black poppy seeds visible inside. The rolls are topped with bright yellow lemon zest scattered unevenly over the icing, adding a pop of color and texture. The icing flows smoothly over the rolls, pooling slightly between them on a white marbled surface beneath. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh lemon zest is always a winner, amplifying the lemon flavor and adding a pop of vibrant color. For a bit of contrast, a few edible flowers or a light dusting of powdered sugar can transform these rolls into a stunning centerpiece for your table. Fresh berries on the side also marry wonderfully with the citrus notes.

Side Dishes

These lemon rolls shine best when paired with simple sides that won’t compete with their bright flavor. Consider a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a floral tea to balance the sweetness. A fruit salad packed with melons and berries makes a refreshing side that complements the citrus perfectly. For brunch, a light green salad dressed with a honey vinaigrette pairs beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun brunch display, arrange the rolls in a circular pattern on a large platter and drizzle icing in the center. You can also serve them individually wrapped in parchment tied with twine for a delightful gift or party favor. Mini tart tins can become lemon roll “cupcakes” by baking smaller rolls—perfect for personalized servings that wow guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. The rolls will remain soft, albeit less gooey than fresh, but still full of flavor. Keep the icing separate if you want to refresh the glaze before serving.

Freezing

Freeze unbaked rolls by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and then let them rise and bake as usual. For baked rolls, wrap each individually and freeze up to three months. Thaw at room temperature and reheat gently.

Reheating

Reheat your lemon rolls in a low oven around 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes to restore softness and warmth. You can also microwave briefly, but be careful not to overdo it or the rolls may dry out. Fresh drizzle of lemon icing after reheating can bring back that just-baked feel.

FAQs

Can I make the dough without a stand mixer?

Absolutely! You can mix and knead the dough by hand using a large wooden spoon or a dough whisk. It may take a little more elbow grease, but the results will be just as delicious with some patience.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

You can easily make a buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using. This trick keeps the dough tender and adds a subtle tang.

Can I replace lemon zest with lemon extract?

While lemon extract can add flavor, fresh lemon zest offers bright citrus oils that are more vibrant and aromatic. If you must use extract, reduce the quantity since it’s more concentrated, but fresh zest is highly recommended.

Why do you turn the oven off to let rolls rise?

The warm but not hot environment of an inactive oven encourages yeast activity without killing it, helping the rolls rise perfectly before baking, which contributes to their fluffy texture and gooey centers.

How do you cut the rolls so they keep their shape?

Using dental floss to slice the rolled dough is the trick! It cuts cleanly without squishing the rolls, preserving their shape and allowing even baking.

Final Thoughts

Sharing this Gooey Lemon Rolls with Fluffy Centers and Lemon Icing Recipe with you is like passing along a little slice of sunshine. These rolls are so soft and tender inside, with that irresistible gooey filling and bright lemon icing, they’re sure to become a favorite treat for your family and friends. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself craving them every morning or bringing them along to every brunch! Give these lemon rolls a try, and I promise you’ll love the burst of lemony joy in every bite.