If you are craving a delightful treat that dances on your taste buds with the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, look no further than this Lemon Blueberry Rolls Recipe. These rolls are soft and pillowy, bursting with juicy blueberries and a zesty lemon punch that makes every bite feel like a sunny day. The combination of luscious cream cheese frosting and vibrant lemon zest elevates this classic roll into a showstopper for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy dessert. Whether you’re serving them to guests or indulging in a moment of self-care, this recipe will quickly become a beloved favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create these delectable Lemon Blueberry Rolls, you only need a handful of simple ingredients, each playing a key role in the final magic. From the warm yeast that makes your dough fluffy to the fresh lemon zest that gives a lively brightness, every component is essential for that perfect harmony of flavor and texture.
- Frozen blueberries (12 oz / 340 g): These provide juicy bursts of sweetness and a beautiful pop of color throughout the rolls.
- Granulated white sugar (multiple amounts): Used to sweeten the dough, filling, and to bloom the yeast, sugar enhances flavor and helps with browning.
- Cornstarch (1 tsp): Thickens the blueberry filling to prevent it from getting too runny during baking.
- Whole milk (1 1/4 cups / 300 ml), warmed: Creates a tender, soft dough and helps activate the yeast.
- Active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp): The powerhouse that makes the dough rise into light, airy rolls.
- All-purpose flour (4 3/4 cups / 593 g): The dough’s base, spooned and leveled for accuracy to ensure the right texture.
- Salt (1 1/2 tsp and 1/4 tsp): Balances and enhances all the sweet and tangy flavors.
- Eggs (2, whisked): Add richness and a tender crumb to the dough.
- Unsalted butter (various amounts, softened): Used in the dough, filling, and frosting for creaminess and flavor complexity.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 tbsp): Adds subtle warmth and depth to the dough.
- Lemon zest (total 4 1/2 tbsp): The star ingredient for that fresh, bright citrus note.
- Fresh lemon juice (2 tbsp): Enhances the lemon flavor and balances sweetness in the filling.
- Brown sugar (1/2 cup / 110 g): Adds a caramel-like richness to the filling.
- Heavy cream (1/4 cup / 60 ml): Poured between rolls to add moisture and richness as they bake.
- Cream cheese (6 oz / 170 g), cold: For a tangy and luxuriously smooth frosting.
- Powdered sugar (3/4 cup / 97 g): Sweetens the frosting without graininess.
- Blueberry jam (2 tbsp): Adds an extra layer of blueberry flavor in the frosting.
How to Make Lemon Blueberry Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Blueberry Filling
Start by thawing your frozen blueberries and combining them with sugar and cornstarch in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens into a luscious jam-like consistency. Add a splash of lemon juice and half the lemon zest for a refreshing brightness. Let it cool completely while you prepare the dough.
Step 2: Bloom the Yeast and Make Dough
Warm your milk to about 110°F, then stir in 1 teaspoon of sugar and sprinkle the yeast on top. Let this mixture sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy—this signals the yeast is active and ready to work its magic. In a large bowl, whisk the remaining sugar, salt, eggs, softened butter, vanilla extract, and lemon zest together. Add the yeast mixture and stir to combine.
Step 3: Incorporate Flour and Knead
Add the flour gradually to the wet ingredients, mixing until a sticky dough forms. Transfer it to a floured surface and knead for about 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. This is where the dough develops its structure for those perfect fluffy rolls.
Step 4: First Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until doubled in size. This slow rise develops flavor and tenderness in the dough.
Step 5: Roll Out and Fill
After the dough has risen, punch it down gently and roll it out on a floured surface into a 16×20-inch rectangle. Spread half of the softened butter on the dough surface, then sprinkle the brown sugar, granulated sugar, remaining lemon zest, and salt evenly. Spread the blueberry filling over the sugar layer, and then drizzle lemon juice on top. Roll up tightly from the long side and cut into 12 even rolls.
Step 6: Second Rise and Bake
Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, spacing them evenly. Pour the heavy cream between the rolls for moisture. Cover again and let them rise for 30 to 45 minutes until puffy. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes until golden brown and irresistible.
Step 7: Prepare Frosting and Finish
While the rolls bake, beat cold cream cheese and softened butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, lemon zest, and blueberry jam for a perfectly tangy and fruity frosting. Spread this over the warm rolls just after they come out of the oven. Spread generously and watch the frosting melt slightly into the swirls—that’s pure magic.
How to Serve Lemon Blueberry Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of extra lemon zest or a few fresh blueberries on top of the frosting to brighten the presentation and give guests a hint of what’s inside. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a pretty, snowy finish perfect for any occasion.
Side Dishes
Pair these rolls with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a tangy citrus tea for a perfect brunch setup. A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette can balance the sweetness and keep the meal feeling fresh and vibrant.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the rolls on a pretty cake stand or arranging them in a circular pattern on a large platter for a stunning centerpiece. For a homemade gift, place a few rolls in a decorative box or cellophane bag tied with a bright yellow ribbon to match the lemon theme.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Keep the frosting in a separate container and add it just before serving to maintain its creamy texture.
Freezing
These rolls freeze wonderfully. Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To thaw, leave them in the refrigerator overnight or let them sit at room temperature for a few hours.
Reheating
Reheat the rolls in a microwave for 20 to 30 seconds or warm them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes. Add frosting after reheating for the best taste experience, and enjoy like fresh-baked!
FAQs
Can I use fresh blueberries instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh blueberries work just as well. If they are very juicy, you may want to add a little extra cornstarch to keep the filling thick and prevent it from becoming too watery.
Is it necessary to warm the milk to activate the yeast?
Yes, warming the milk to about 110°F helps activate the yeast more effectively, ensuring the dough rises properly. Too hot and it can kill the yeast, so be careful with the temperature.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute milk with almond or oat milk and use dairy-free butter alternatives, but keep in mind this might slightly alter the texture and flavor. The rolls may not be as tender, but still delicious!
How do I prevent the rolls from becoming soggy?
Spreading the heavy cream between the rolls and baking at the right temperature helps maintain moisture without sogginess. Also, avoid flooding the filling with too much liquid and bake until golden brown for the best consistency.
Can I prepare the dough the night before?
Yes! You can prepare the dough, do the first rise, then refrigerate overnight. Let it come to room temperature and rise again before filling and shaping. This method lets the flavors develop even more.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have the full scoop on this irresistible Lemon Blueberry Rolls Recipe, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and bring the sunshine to your kitchen. Each bite offers a perfect blend of tangy lemon and sweet blueberries that makes it impossible to stop at just one. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy weekend treat, these rolls are sure to bring smiles and happy memories around your table. Give it a try, and you might just find your new favorite recipe!
Print
Lemon Blueberry Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Lemon Blueberry Rolls are a delightful sweet treat that combines the fresh zestiness of lemon with the vibrant sweetness of blueberries, all wrapped in a soft, fluffy yeast dough. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, these rolls feature a luscious blueberry lemon filling, a creamy lemon-infused frosting, and a hint of fresh lemon zest for a bright, refreshing flavor.
Ingredients
Dough
- 12 oz (340 g) frozen blueberries
- 1/3 cup (66 g) granulated white sugar
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 1 1/4 cups (300 ml) whole milk, warmed to about 110°F
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 1 tsp granulated white sugar (for blooming the yeast)
- 4 3/4 cups (593 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- 1 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp (25 g) granulated white sugar
- 2 eggs, whisked
- 1/2 cup (112 g) unsalted butter, very softened
- 1/2 tbsp vanilla extract
Filling
- 1/2 cup (112 g) unsalted butter, very softened
- 1/2 cup (110 g) brown sugar
- 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated white sugar
- 2 tbsp (20 g) lemon zest (about 2 lemons zested)
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) heavy cream, at room temperature (for pouring between the rolls)
Topping/Frosting
- 6 tbsp (84 g) unsalted butter, very softened
- 6 oz (170 g) cream cheese, cold
- 3/4 cup (97 g) powdered sugar
- 1/2 tbsp (5 g) lemon zest (about ½ lemon zested)
- 2 tbsp blueberry jam (from the prepared jam above)
Instructions
- Prepare Blueberry Jam: In a small saucepan, combine the frozen blueberries, 1/3 cup granulated sugar, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens and the blueberries break down, stirring frequently to avoid burning. Set aside to cool.
- Bloom Yeast: In a small bowl, mix the warm milk (110°F) with 1 tsp sugar and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is activated.
- Make Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and 2 tbsp sugar. Add the whisked eggs, vanilla extract, softened butter, and the yeast mixture. Mix until the dough comes together, then knead by hand or with a mixer fitted with a dough hook for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Prepare Filling: In a bowl, combine softened butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and salt. Mix well to create a spreadable filling.
- Roll Out Dough: After the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it onto a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough into a large rectangle, approximately 16×24 inches.
- Assemble Rolls: Spread the prepared filling evenly over the dough. Pour the cooled blueberry jam over the filling and spread gently. Drizzle the heavy cream evenly between the layers. Starting from the long side, roll the dough tightly into a log.
- Cut Rolls: Using a sharp knife or dental floss, cut the log into 12 equal rolls.
- Second Rise: Place rolls into a greased baking pan, leaving some space between each. Cover and let them rise for about 30 minutes until puffy.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes until golden brown on top and cooked through.
- Prepare Frosting: While the rolls bake, beat the cold cream cheese with softened butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and lemon zest, mixing until creamy. Stir in the blueberry jam gently.
- Cool and Frost: Remove rolls from the oven and allow them to cool slightly, about 10 minutes. Spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the warm rolls.
- Serve: Serve the rolls warm or at room temperature for best flavor and softness.
Notes
- Make sure the milk is not too hot when activating the yeast, as temperatures above 115°F can kill the yeast.
- For a more intense blueberry flavor, you can use fresh blueberries instead of frozen.
- The rolls can be stored covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
- Reheat rolls in the microwave for 15-20 seconds before serving to refresh softness.
- If the dough is sticky, add a little more flour during kneading, but avoid adding too much to keep rolls tender.
