Lemon Blueberry Rolls

Introduction

This Lemon Blueberry Rolls soft, pillowy dough wrapped around a sweet and tangy blueberry filling, these rolls are a bright and refreshing twist on a classic. The fresh burst of blueberries combined with zesty lemon creates a flavor pairing that feels both comforting and vibrant. Every bite is a perfect balance of tart citrus and juicy sweetness, making these rolls irresistible from the first taste.

The first time I made these, the scent of lemon and warm dough filled the kitchen, instantly making the morning feel special. What sets these apart is the way the lemon zest enhances the blueberry filling, creating a swirl of flavors that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. And the finishing touch? A silky lemon glaze drizzled over the top, adding just the right amount of sweetness to tie it all together.

Whether served for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon treat, these rolls are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Their vibrant color and bright flavor make them just as stunning to look at as they are to eat. One bite, and you’ll find yourself coming back for more!

Perfect for:

• Weekend brunch
• Spring and summer gatherings
• Special occasions
• Citrus and berry lovers
• Sweet breakfast treats

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Blueberry Rolls

Here’s why Lemon Blueberry Rolls will become your new favorite treat:

• Soft and Fluffy Dough: The dough is light, airy, and melts in your mouth with every bite.
• Bright and Tangy Flavor: Fresh lemon zest and juice add a refreshing citrusy touch.
• Juicy Blueberry Filling: The blueberry filling is sweet and slightly tart, creating the perfect balance.
• Homemade and Impressive: These rolls may look fancy, but they’re simple to make and perfect for any occasion.
• Versatile and Customizable: Try different berry combinations, or add nuts for extra texture.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Rising Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Servings: 12 rolls
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 5g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 8g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Lemon Blueberry Rolls:

For the Dough:

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) instant yeast
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest

Blueberry Filling:

• 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Lemon Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Ingredient Highlights

• Lemon Zest and Juice: Brightens the rolls with fresh citrusy flavor.
• Blueberries: Bursting with natural sweetness and a bit of tartness, they make the perfect filling.
• Yeast Dough: Creates soft and fluffy rolls that rise beautifully.
• Powdered Sugar Glaze: Adds a sweet, tangy finish that ties all the flavors together.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Lemon Blueberry Rolls:

Prepare the Dough:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients: Add the melted butter, egg, and lemon zest, stirring to combine.
3. Form the Dough: Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms. Knead for about 8 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Prepare the Blueberry Filling:

5. Cook the Filling: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine blueberries, sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, and vanilla. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens (about 5 minutes). Let cool completely.

Assemble and Bake:

6. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a 12×18-inch rectangle.
7. Spread the Filling: Evenly spread the cooled blueberry filling over the dough.
8. Roll and Slice: Roll the dough tightly into a log, starting from the long side. Slice into 12 even rolls.
9. Second Rise: Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes.
10. Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown.

Prepare the Lemon Glaze:

11. Mix the Glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.
12. Glaze the Rolls: Drizzle the glaze over warm rolls before serving.

How to Serve Lemon Blueberry Rolls

Lemon Blueberry Rolls are best enjoyed fresh and warm. Here are some serving ideas:

• With Coffee or Tea: Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy morning treat.
• For Brunch Spreads: Serve alongside fresh fruit, eggs, and yogurt for a balanced brunch.
• With Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream makes these rolls an indulgent dessert.
• As a Make-Ahead Treat: Bake the night before and reheat in the morning for a quick breakfast.
• Topped with Fresh Berries – Garnish with fresh blueberries, raspberries, or sliced strawberries for a refreshing, juicy bite.
• With a Cream Cheese Drizzle – Mix cream cheese with a touch of lemon juice and powdered sugar, then drizzle over the rolls for a tangy-sweet topping.

Additional Tips for Lemon Blueberry Rolls

• Use Fresh or Frozen Blueberries: If using frozen, do not thaw them before cooking the filling.
• Let the Dough Rise Fully: Patience is key—well-risen dough results in light and fluffy rolls.
• Don’t Overfill the Dough: Spread the filling evenly to prevent it from leaking out while rolling.
• Adjust the Sweetness: If you like a tarter flavor, reduce the sugar in the filling or glaze.
• Try Different Citrus: Swap lemon with orange or lime for a fun flavor variation.
• Reheat for Best Texture: Warm leftover rolls in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before eating.
• Use Dental Floss to Cut Rolls – Instead of a knife, use unflavored dental floss to slice the dough without squishing it.
• Cover While Rising – Keep the dough covered with a damp towel or plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
• Glaze While Warm – Drizzle the lemon glaze over slightly warm rolls for better absorption and a glossy finish.
• Store Properly – Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for longer freshness. Reheat slightly before serving.
• Chill Before Slicing – After rolling up the dough, chill it for 10–15 minutes to make slicing cleaner and easier.

Recipe Variations for Lemon Blueberry Rolls

Here are 10 variations you can try for Lemon Blueberry Rolls:

• Orange Blueberry Rolls: Replace lemon zest and juice with orange for a sweeter citrus twist.
• Raspberry Lemon Rolls: Use raspberries instead of blueberries for a different berry flavor.
• Lemon Poppy Seed Rolls: Add 1 tablespoon of poppy seeds to the dough for extra texture.
• Cream Cheese Glaze Rolls: Swap the lemon glaze with a cream cheese frosting.
• Nutty Blueberry Rolls: Sprinkle chopped almonds or pecans over the blueberry filling.
• Honey Lemon Rolls: Replace sugar in the glaze with honey for a more natural sweetness.
• Whole Wheat Blueberry Rolls: Use half whole wheat flour for a heartier version.
• Blueberry Streusel Rolls: Add a crumb topping made of butter, flour, and sugar before baking.
• Lavender Lemon Rolls: Add ½ teaspoon of dried lavender for a floral touch.
• Gluten-Free Lemon Blueberry Rolls: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make them gluten-free.

Freezing and Storage for Lemon Blueberry Rolls

• Freezing: Freeze unbaked rolls after slicing. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge, then let rise at room temperature for 1 hour before baking.
• Storage: Store baked rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Special Equipment for Lemon Blueberry Rolls

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Lemon Blueberry Rolls easier:

• Stand Mixer: Speeds up the dough-kneading process.
• Rolling Pin: Helps achieve an even dough thickness.
• Pastry Brush: For brushing melted butter onto the dough.
• Sharp Knife or Dental Floss: For cutting clean, even rolls.
• 9×13-inch Baking Dish: Ensures even baking.
• Microplane/Zester: For finely grating fresh lemon zest.

Frequently Asked Questions for Lemon Blueberry Rolls

1. Can I use store-bought dough?
   Yes! Use pre-made pizza or crescent roll dough for a shortcut.
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
   Yes, prepare them the night before, refrigerate, and bake in the morning.
3. Can I use a different berry?
   Yes, raspberries, blackberries, or strawberries all work well.
4. How do I know when the rolls are done?
   The tops should be golden brown, and the center should be fully set.
5. Can I make these dairy-free?
   Yes! Use dairy-free butter and milk substitutes.

Print

Conclusion

Lemon Blueberry Rolls are a perfect blend of tangy lemon, sweet blueberries, and soft, fluffy dough. Whether enjoyed warm from the oven or reheated for a cozy treat, these rolls are sure to brighten your day.

Perfect for brunch, dessert, or simply because you deserve a sweet treat, they’re bound to become a household favorite. With every bite bursting with fresh flavor, you won’t be able to resist making them again and again.

I’d love to see your Lemon Blueberry Rolls! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy baking!