Lemon Blueberry Sweet Rolls
There’s something magical about waking up to the aroma of freshly baked Lemon Blueberry Sweet Rolls. Imagine the sun streaming through the kitchen window as you pull a warm batch from the oven, the sweet and tangy scent filling the air. I remember the first time I made these rolls; it was a bright spring morning, and I had just picked a basket of plump, juicy blueberries. I couldn’t resist experimenting with them. The moment I rolled out the dough and added the lemon zest, I knew I was onto something special. These sweet rolls quickly became a favorite in our household. They’re perfect for brunch, a family gathering, or even just a cozy weekend morning at home.
Recipe Snapshot
1 hr 10 mins
40 mins
30 mins
Medium
320 kcal
4 g
Vegan, Gluten-Free, AIP
15 g
Medium pot, Stand mixer, 9 x 13-inch baking pan
Why You Need This Lemon Blueberry Sweet Rolls
A Burst of Flavor
The combination of lemon and blueberries in these sweet rolls is simply divine. The bright citrus notes complement the sweetness of the berries, creating a delightful flavor profile that dances on your palate. Each bite is a little piece of heaven.
Perfect for Any Occasion
These rolls are incredibly versatile. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating a special occasion, or just treating yourself to something sweet, the Lemon Blueberry Sweet Rolls fit the bill. They can be a sweet addition to holiday breakfasts or a lovely treat on a lazy Sunday.
A Fun Baking Experience
Baking these rolls is as enjoyable as eating them! The process of making dough from scratch, watching it rise, and then rolling it out is therapeutic. Plus, your kitchen will smell incredible, making the whole experience even more rewarding.
Great for Sharing
These sweet rolls are truly great for sharing. Imagine bringing a batch to a friend’s house or serving them at a family gathering. They’re sure to impress everyone, and you’ll love seeing their smiles as they take their first bites.
A Nostalgic Treat
For me, Lemon Blueberry Sweet Rolls bring back fond memories of family breakfasts during the spring. They remind me of sunny mornings spent with loved ones, sharing stories and laughter over a warm plate of sweet rolls. Making these rolls is a way to recreate those cherished moments.
Easy to Customize
The beauty of these sweet rolls is that they can be easily customized! Add nuts, switch up the fruit, or even adjust the glaze to fit your taste. The basic dough is a blank canvas, ready for your creative touch.
Ingredients Required for Lemon Blueberry Sweet Rolls

These ingredients work harmoniously, creating a decadent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. The key players are whole milk, active dry yeast, and fresh blueberries. Each ingredient adds its own unique flavor and texture, resulting in fluffy, sweet rolls that are simply irresistible.
- 1 cup whole milk: This acts as the liquid base, providing moisture and richness.
- 2-1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast: Essential for leavening, helping the dough rise beautifully.
- 1/3 cup + 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and balances the tartness of the lemon.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds a rich flavor and tender texture.
- 1/2 tablespoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1 large egg yolk: Provides richness and helps with the dough’s structure.
- 2-3/4 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the body of the dough and gives it structure.
- 3/4 teaspoon salt: Balances out the sweetness.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened): For spreading on the dough, contributing to the rolls’ flakiness.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Used in the filling to sweeten the rolls.
- 1 large lemon: Provides zest and juice, adding a bright flavor to the rolls.
- 1 cup fresh blueberries: The star ingredient that brings sweetness and texture.
- 1/3 cup heavy cream: Adds richness and moisture.
- 1 large lemon: For additional zest in the glaze.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (melted): For brushing on top of the rolls before baking.
- 1-3/4 cups powdered sugar: For the glaze, adding sweetness and a creamy texture.
- 1/8 teaspoon salt: To enhance the sweetness of the glaze.
Step by Step Guide for Lemon Blueberry Sweet Rolls

Making Lemon Blueberry Sweet Rolls can be a delightful experience, perfect for a cozy morning or a special occasion. Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of homemade sweet rolls that will fill your kitchen with a wonderful aroma.
- Begin by heating the whole milk in a medium pot over low heat until it reaches about 100°F. Remove the pot from heat and stir in the active dry yeast and 1/2 teaspoon of granulated sugar. Allow this mixture to sit until it becomes foamy, typically about 5 to 10 minutes. This step is crucial because it activates the yeast, which helps the dough rise. If it doesn’t foam, you may need to restart with fresh yeast.
- While the yeast is proofing, melt the unsalted butter and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, whisk together the melted butter, vanilla extract, and egg yolk in a separate bowl until smooth. This mixture will add richness and flavor to your dough.
- In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the cooled butter mixture with the activated yeast and milk mixture, then mix until combined. Next, add the all-purpose flour and salt on top. This is where the dough begins to come together.
- Using the dough hook attachment, mix on low speed until the mixture is thick and slightly sticky, usually around 2 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula as necessary. Then, knead on medium speed for about 5 to 6 minutes. The dough should gather around the hook and be slightly tacky but not overly sticky. If it’s too sticky, you can add more flour gradually.
- Once the dough reaches the right consistency, remove it from the bowl and shape it into a ball. It will be a little sticky, but that’s okay! Grease the mixing bowl lightly with cooking spray or butter, place the dough back in, and turn it to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a towel and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, which can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- After the dough has risen, lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the dough into a rectangle about 15 x 12 inches. Be careful not to overwork the dough so it remains fluffy.
- Spread the softened unsalted butter evenly across the rolled-out dough, leaving a 1-inch border. In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and the zest of 1 lemon, rubbing it together to release the oils. Sprinkle this lemon sugar evenly over the butter, then add the fresh blueberries, pressing them gently into the sugar mixture.
- Using a sharp knife, cut the roll of dough into 12 equal slices. Place the slices, cut side up, in a well-greased 9Ă—13-inch ceramic or glass pan. Avoid using metal pans, as they can react with the acidity of the dough.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Cover the pan with a towel and let the rolls rise again until nearly doubled, about 20 to 30 minutes. While waiting, you can warm the heavy cream in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds, just to take the chill off.
- Once the rolls have risen, brush the warmed heavy cream over the top of each roll. This will soak into the rolls, ensuring they are moist and flavorful.
- Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes or until they are lightly golden brown around the edges and cooked through in the center. It’s always a good idea to keep an eye on them as they bake.
- While the rolls cool slightly, prepare the glaze. Whisk together the zest from another lemon, 3 tablespoons of lemon juice, melted unsalted butter, powdered sugar, and a pinch of salt. This glaze adds a sweet, tangy finish to the rolls.
- Allow the Lemon Blueberry Sweet Rolls to cool at room temperature for about 5 to 10 minutes before spreading the glaze evenly over the top. Serve warm and enjoy!
Things Worth Knowing
- Watch the dough rise: It’s crucial to let the dough rise until it doubles in size. This step is essential for achieving a light and fluffy texture.
- Check your yeast: Always proof the yeast in warm liquid. If it doesn’t foam, your yeast may be inactive, and your dough won’t rise.
- Don’t rush the baking: Allow the rolls to cool slightly before glazing. This helps the glaze adhere better without melting away.
- Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add different fruits or extracts to customize these rolls to your taste. The basic dough is versatile!
Substitutions and Tips

Creating the perfect Lemon Blueberry Sweet Rolls can be a fun adventure! Here are some helpful tips and substitutions to enhance your baking experience.
- Storage: Store leftovers in a sealed container for 1 to 2 days at room temperature or in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze unglazed rolls and wrap them securely.
- Freezing: You can freeze the unglazed rolls for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before warming and glazing.
- Pairing: These sweet rolls pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, making them perfect for breakfast or brunch gatherings.
- Variations: Feel free to switch up the fruit! Raspberries or blackberries can also be fantastic in this recipe.
- Glazing: Adjust the glaze to your liking! If you prefer a thicker glaze, add more powdered sugar until you achieve your desired consistency.
Accompaniments for Lemon Blueberry Sweet Rolls
When serving Lemon Blueberry Sweet Rolls, there are many delightful ways to enjoy them. Here are some fantastic ideas to complement this delicious treat:
- Brunch Buffets: Serve these rolls at brunch gatherings alongside fresh fruit, scrambled eggs, and coffee for a well-rounded meal.
- Picnic Treat: Pack these rolls for a picnic; they are easy to transport and can be enjoyed at room temperature.
- Seasonal Celebrations: Perfect for spring and summer celebrations, these sweet rolls add a festive touch to any occasion.
- Breakfast in Bed: Surprise someone special with a warm serving of these rolls for breakfast in bed topped with fresh berries and whipped cream.
- Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in a sealed container to keep them fresh. You might also consider freezing them for later enjoyment.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Lemon Blueberry Sweet Rolls are a deliciously sweet and tangy treat that can brighten any day. With their fluffy texture and rich flavors, they make a perfect choice for breakfast or dessert. I encourage you to try making these rolls yourself; they’re sure to bring joy to your kitchen and smiles to your table!

Lemon Blueberry Sweet Rolls
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the whole milk in a medium pot over low heat until it reaches 100°F. Remove from heat and add the active dry yeast and 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar. Give it a quick stir. Let sit until foamy, about 5 to 10 minutes.
- While the yeast is proofing, melt the unsalted butter and let it return to room temperature. Once cooled, whisk in vanilla extract and egg yolk until smooth. Pour this mixture into the base of a stand mixer along with the remaining 1/3 cup granulated sugar. Pour the activated yeast and milk mixture into the bowl of the stand mixer. Mix everything until combined.
- Add all-purpose flour and salt on top. Mix on low speed with the dough hook until thick and slightly sticky (about 2 minutes), scraping the sides with a spatula as needed. Knead on medium speed until the dough gathers around the hook (about 5 to 6 minutes). If the dough is not gathering around the hook, you can slowly add additional flour (1/4 cup up to 3/4 cup extra).
- Remove the dough and shape it into a ball. Grease the mixing bowl with cooking spray or butter and return the dough to the bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap or a towel and let rise until doubled (about 45 mins to 1 hour 15 minutes).
- Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the dough to a rectangle shape (approximately 15 x 12 inches). Avoid overworking the dough.
- With a table knife, spread the unsalted butter evenly over the dough (leaving a 1-inch border). Combine granulated sugar and zest from lemon until fragrant. Add 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice and mix. Sprinkle this lemon sugar over the butter. Sprinkle and gently press the fresh blueberries evenly over the mixture.
- Cut the roll of dough into 12 equal slices and place (cut side up) in a well-greased 9Ă—13-inch ceramic or glass pan.
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Cover the rolls in the pan and allow them to rise until nearly doubled (about 20–30 minutes).
- Warm the heavy cream for 15–20 seconds in the microwave. Using a pastry brush, brush the cream over the risen rolls and allow it to soak in.
- Bake sweet rolls at 375°F for 30–35 minutes, until rolls are lightly golden brown at the edges and the centers are cooked through.
- While the rolls are cooling, prepare the glaze by whisking together the zest of a lemon, 3 tablespoons lemon juice, melted unsalted butter, powdered sugar, and salt.
- Allow sweet rolls to cool at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes, then spread the glaze evenly over the rolls. Enjoy warm!
Notes
- Storage: Store leftovers in a sealed container for 1–2 days or in the fridge for 5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze unglazed rolls in a sealed container or wrapped in plastic and foil for up to 2 months.
- Thawing: Thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm and glaze.


