These Lemon Blueberry Rolls are sweet and fluffy, perfect for breakfast or a cozy snack. Soft dough wraps around juicy blueberries and is brightened up with a zesty lemon glaze!
Honestly, who can resist that fresh lemony smell wafting through the kitchen? I love enjoying them warm, right out of the oven. A cup of tea makes it even better! ☕️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flour: All-purpose flour gives the dough its structure. If you want a healthier option, you can use whole wheat flour. Just note, it may change the texture a bit. I’ve used a mix of both before, and it worked well!
Active dry yeast: This is key for making your rolls fluffy. If you have instant yeast, you can use the same amount without dissolving it first. It’s super convenient!
Whole milk: Milk helps keep the dough soft. If you’re dairy-free, almond or oat milk can work. Just warm it up a bit before using, like the recipe suggests.
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries give great flavor, but frozen ones are perfectly fine too. Just add them straight from the freezer without thawing to prevent the filling from getting too watery.
Granulated sugar: This sweetens the rolls and filling. If you’re looking for a low-sugar option, coconut sugar or a sugar substitute can work but may slightly alter the flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Dough Rises Properly?
Getting your dough to rise well is crucial for fluffy rolls! Here’s how to make sure it happens:
- First, ensure your yeast is active by letting it sit in warmed milk until frothy. This shows it’s ready to work.
- Make sure the water or milk is warm (about 110°F/43°C). Too hot will kill the yeast!
- During the first rise, cover your dough with a damp towel. This keeps moisture in.
- Find a warm spot for rising; a turned-off oven or near a heater is perfect.
- Trust the process – let it rise until doubled for the best results!
How to Make Delicious Lemon Blueberry Rolls?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Dough:
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, divided
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- ½ cup whole milk, warmed (about 110°F/43°C)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
For The Filling:
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Zest of 1 large lemon
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- ¼ tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
For The Lemon Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (add more as needed for consistency)
- 1 tbsp milk or cream
- ½ tsp vanilla extract (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh blueberries
- Thin lemon slices or lemon zest curls
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 2 ½ to 3 hours in total, including preparation, rising, baking, and cooling. You’ll spend around 30 minutes putting it together, then give the dough time to rise, bake, and cool before enjoying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
Start by dissolving the yeast in the warm milk in a small bowl. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it gets frothy—this shows the yeast is alive and ready to go! In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 ½ cups of flour, sugar, and salt. Next, add the melted butter, eggs, and the yeast mixture. Mix it all until combined. Gradually stir in the remaining flour a bit at a time until you have a soft dough that isn’t sticky. Now, knead the dough on a floured surface for about 6-8 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it up with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 to 1 ½ hours or until it doubles in size.
2. Prepare the Filling:
While the dough rises, let’s whip up the filling! In a bowl, gently toss together the blueberries, sugar, flour, lemon zest, lemon juice, and cinnamon (if you want that extra kick). Set this delicious mixture aside while the dough continues to rise.
3. Assemble the Rolls:
After the dough has risen, give it a gentle punch down and turn it onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out into a rectangle that’s about 16 x 12 inches. Carefully spread the blueberry filling evenly over the dough, pressing down slightly so it sticks. Starting from the longer side, roll the dough tightly into a log shape. Use a sharp knife to cut the log into 9-12 equal slices.
4. Second Rise:
Take your cut rolls and place them cut side up in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Remember to leave a little space between them. Cover the pan and let the rolls rise again for 30-45 minutes until they look puffy and happy.
5. Bake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once it’s heated, bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through. When they’re done, pull them out of the oven and allow them to cool slightly.
6. Prepare the Lemon Glaze:
While the rolls cool, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl until it’s smooth. If the glaze seems too thick, feel free to adjust the consistency by adding a bit more lemon juice or powdered sugar until it’s just right.
7. Finish:
Now for the fun part! Drizzle the lemon glaze generously over the warm rolls. Make them look lovely by garnishing with fresh blueberries and thin lemon slices or curls of lemon zest. If you want to go the extra mile, you can dust them lightly with some powdered sugar.
8. Serve:
Finally, enjoy these delightful rolls while they’re warm or at room temperature. They pair perfectly with a nice cup of coffee or tea!
These lemony, fluffy rolls filled with juicy blueberries and topped with a bright lemon glaze are sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Different Types of Yeast?
Yes! If you have instant yeast on hand, you can use it in the same amount (2 ¼ tsp) without dissolving it in the warm milk first. It’s quicker and just as effective!
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Fresh Blueberries?
No worries! You can use frozen blueberries instead. Just add them directly to the filling mixture without thawing to avoid excess moisture.
Can I Make These Rolls the Night Before?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and assemble the rolls, then cover them and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them come to room temperature and rise for about 30 minutes before baking.
How Should I Store Leftover Rolls?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep them fresh longer, you can freeze them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, which will last for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for the best texture!
