Lemon Poppy Seed Rolls

Featured in breakfast-brunch.

Hey friend! Get ready to fill your kitchen with the most amazing citrusy aroma! These lemon poppy seed sweet rolls are absolutely divine - picture soft, pillowy dough swirled with bright lemon filling and crunchy poppy seeds. The way they rise in the oven and turn golden brown is pure magic. When you drizzle that glossy lemon glaze over the warm rolls, it creates the perfect sweet-tart balance. Trust me, your family will be asking for these every weekend! The texture is incredibly tender and the lemon flavor just pops in every bite. You can practically taste the sunshine in each roll!

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Updated on Sat, 31 May 2025 20:07:10 GMT
Golden lemon poppy seed sweet rolls in white baking dish with citrus glaze pin it
Golden lemon poppy seed sweet rolls in white baking dish with citrus glaze | lonerecipes.com

I discovered this recipe during a particularly dreary winter when I was craving something that would brighten up our breakfast table. The combination of lemon and poppy seeds reminded me of the muffins my grandmother used to make, but I wanted something more substantial and impressive. The process of making yeasted sweet rolls felt intimidating at first, but I quickly learned that patience is the key ingredient. Watching the dough double in size, then rolling it out and spreading the lemony filling, creates this wonderful anticipation. The spiral pattern that forms when you slice the rolled dough is absolutely beautiful. Each roll bakes up golden and tender, with the poppy seeds creating these lovely speckled layers throughout. The final touch of lemon glaze ties everything together, creating a perfect balance of sweet and tart that makes these rolls absolutely irresistible.

Why I love this recipe

What I love most about this recipe is how it transforms simple ingredients into something truly spectacular. The yeast dough gives these rolls an incredible texture that's both light and satisfying, while the lemon filling provides this burst of sunshine in every bite. The poppy seeds aren't just for show - they add this subtle nutty flavor and delightful crunch that elevates the entire experience. I love how forgiving this recipe is; even if your rolls aren't perfectly shaped, they still taste amazing. The aroma that fills the house while they're baking is absolutely intoxicating - it's like having your own personal bakery. These rolls also freeze beautifully, so I can make a double batch and have them ready for unexpected guests or lazy weekend mornings. Every time I make them, I'm reminded of why homemade baking is so special - there's something magical about creating something this beautiful and delicious with your own hands.

What You Need From Your Kitchen

  • All-purpose flour: Forms the base structure of the soft yeast dough
  • Active dry yeast: Creates the light, fluffy texture through fermentation
  • Fresh lemons: Provides bright citrus flavor through zest and juice
  • Poppy seeds: Adds distinctive texture and nutty flavor throughout
  • Brown sugar: Sweetens the filling and creates caramelized notes
  • Butter: Creates tender crumb and rich filling base
  • Powdered sugar: Makes smooth, glossy glaze for finishing

Let's Make These Together

Mix the yeast mixture
Start by combining your warm milk with sugar and yeast in a large bowl. This step is crucial - the milk should be warm to touch but not hot, around 110°F. Watch for the mixture to become foamy after 5 minutes, which tells you the yeast is active and ready to work its magic.
Create the dough
Add your melted butter, egg, and salt to the foamy yeast mixture, stirring until well combined. Gradually incorporate the flour, mixing until you have a soft, slightly sticky dough that pulls away from the bowl sides but still clings to your fingers.
Knead to perfection
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth, elastic, and springs back when poked. This develops the gluten structure that gives your rolls their tender texture.
Let it rise
Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour. You'll know it's ready when it has doubled in size and holds an indentation when gently pressed.
Prepare the filling
While the dough rises, mix together your softened butter, brown sugar, fresh lemon zest, lemon juice, and poppy seeds. This aromatic mixture will create those beautiful swirls and incredible flavor in every bite.
Roll and fill
Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it into a large rectangle. Spread your lemon-poppy seed filling evenly across the surface, leaving a small border on one edge for sealing.
Recipe picture pin it
Fluffy glazed lemon poppy seed rolls arranged in ceramic baking pan ready to serve | lonerecipes.com

Switch Things Up

I'll never forget the first time I made these rolls for my family's Sunday brunch. I was experimenting with different citrus flavors in my baking, and the combination of lemon and poppy seeds just called to me. The dough was so soft and pliable as I rolled it out, and watching the butter and sugar mixture spread evenly was oddly satisfying. When they came out of the oven, golden and fragrant, I knew I had a winner. My kids couldn't stop talking about the "little black dots" that added such a fun crunch. Now it's become our weekend tradition - the whole house smells like a bakery, and everyone fights over the corner pieces with extra glaze. These rolls have this amazing way of making any morning feel special.

Perfect Pairings

These lemon poppy seed sweet rolls pair beautifully with fresh coffee or Earl Grey tea, as the citrus notes complement both beverages perfectly. For a complete brunch spread, serve alongside crispy bacon or breakfast sausage to balance the sweetness. Fresh berries, especially blueberries or raspberries, make an excellent accompaniment and enhance the bright, summery flavors. A dollop of whipped cream or a small scoop of vanilla ice cream can transform these into an elegant dessert option.

Homemade spiral sweet rolls with poppy seeds and lemon zest fresh from oven pin it
Homemade spiral sweet rolls with poppy seeds and lemon zest fresh from oven | lonerecipes.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the rolls up to the second rise, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature before baking, which may take 30-45 minutes.

→ What if I don't have poppy seeds?

While poppy seeds add unique texture and flavor, you can substitute with sesame seeds, or simply omit them for plain lemon sweet rolls. The recipe will still be delicious!

→ How do I know if my yeast is still active?

Active yeast will foam and bubble within 5 minutes when mixed with warm liquid and sugar. If nothing happens, your yeast may be expired and should be replaced.

→ Can I freeze these sweet rolls?

Absolutely! Baked rolls freeze well for up to 3 months. Wrap individually or store in freezer bags. Thaw at room temperature and warm briefly in the microwave before serving.

→ Why did my rolls turn out dense?

Dense rolls usually result from using too much flour, not kneading enough, or inactive yeast. Make sure your yeast is fresh and your dough is properly kneaded until smooth and elastic.

→ How should I store leftover rolls?

Store covered rolls at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. Warm slightly in the microwave before serving to restore their soft texture.

Conclusion

These lemon poppy seed sweet rolls are the perfect combination of comfort and brightness. The tender, yeast-risen dough creates a beautiful canvas for the citrusy filling, while the poppy seeds add delightful texture and visual appeal. Whether served for a special breakfast, brunch gathering, or afternoon treat, these rolls never fail to impress. The homemade touch makes them infinitely better than store-bought alternatives, and the aroma alone will have everyone gathering in the kitchen.

Lemon Poppy Seed Rolls

Soft, buttery sweet rolls filled with bright lemon flavor and crunchy poppy seeds, topped with a glossy citrus glaze.

Prep Time
150 Minutes
Cook Time
25 Minutes
Total Time
175 Minutes
By: chris

Category: breakfast-brunch

Difficulty: intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yield: 12 Servings (12 balls)

Dietary: Vegetarian, Contains Dairy

Ingredients

013 cups all-purpose flour
021/4 cup granulated sugar
031 packet active dry yeast
041 tsp salt
053/4 cup warm milk
061/4 cup melted butter
071 large egg
082 tbsp poppy seeds
091/4 cup softened butter for filling
101/3 cup brown sugar
11Zest of 2 lemons
122 tbsp fresh lemon juice
131 1/2 cups powdered sugar for glaze
143-4 tbsp milk for glaze

Instructions

Step 01

In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy. Add melted butter, egg, and salt, mixing well. Gradually add flour until a soft dough forms.

Step 02

Turn dough onto floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in greased bowl, cover with damp cloth, and let rise in warm place for 1 hour until doubled in size.

Step 03

Mix softened butter, brown sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and poppy seeds in a small bowl until well combined. Set aside filling mixture.

Step 04

Punch down risen dough and roll into 12x18 inch rectangle. Spread filling mixture evenly over dough, leaving 1/2 inch border on one long side.

Step 05

Starting from filled long side, tightly roll up dough. Pinch seam to seal. Cut into 12 equal slices using sharp knife or dental floss. Place cut-side up in greased 9x13 baking dish.

Step 06

Cover rolls and let rise 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 375°F. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Meanwhile, whisk powdered sugar and milk for glaze. Drizzle over warm rolls before serving.

Notes

  1. Make sure milk is warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast
  2. Dough should be slightly sticky but manageable - add flour gradually
  3. For best results, let rolls cool slightly before glazing to prevent melting
  4. Store covered rolls at room temperature for up to 3 days
  5. Rolls can be frozen after baking and reheated in microwave

Tools You'll Need

  • Large mixing bowl
  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Rolling pin
  • Sharp knife or dental floss
  • Clean kitchen towel
  • Wire cooling rack

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Wheat/Gluten (flour)
  • Dairy (milk, butter)
  • Eggs

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 285
  • Total Fat: 12 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 42 g
  • Protein: 6 g

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