Raspberry Lemon Sweet Rolls Recipe

If you have been on the hunt for a delightful, fresh, and irresistible treat to brighten your mornings or impress your guests, then look no further. This Raspberry Lemon Sweet Rolls Recipe combines the perfect balance of tangy lemon zest and sweet raspberry preserves wrapped in soft, fluffy rolls that melt in your mouth. It is a gentle hug of warmth, bursting with fresh fruit flavor and a luscious cream cheese glaze that provides just the right hint of indulgence. Trust me, once you try these sweet rolls, they will earn a permanent spot in your baking repertoire and hearts alike!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting these Raspberry Lemon Sweet Rolls just right means using simple, staple ingredients that work together beautifully to give the rolls their tender crumb, vibrant flavor, and irresistible sweetness. Each ingredient plays a key role, whether it’s the yeast creating that perfect rise or the lemon zest giving the refreshing pop.

• Whole milk: Warmed to activate the yeast and add richness to the dough.
• Active-dry yeast: The magical leavening agent that makes these rolls airy and soft.
• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and feeds the yeast for the perfect rise.
• Melted butter: Makes the dough tender and adds a subtle richness.
• Egg & egg yolk: Provide structure and browning to the rolls.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• All-purpose flour: The foundation of the dough, providing strength and texture.
• Avocado oil or non-stick spray: Keeps the dough from sticking during rising and baking.
• Unsalted butter (for filling): Room temperature for easy spreading and adding moistness to the filling.
• Raspberry preserves: The sweet jammy component that infuses the rolls with fruity depth.
• Fresh raspberries: Add a bright, juicy burst of real fruit flavor.
• Vanilla extract: Brings warm aromatic notes that complement the berries and lemon.
• Lemon zest: The star that provides that fresh citrus zing throughout the rolls.
• Cornstarch: Stabilizes the raspberry mixture so it’s perfectly spreadable.
• Cream cheese (softened): The base for the luscious lemon-infused frosting.
• Confectioner’s sugar: Adds sweetness and smooth texture for the icing.
• Lemon juice: Gives the glaze a tangy brightness that ties the whole recipe together.

How to Make Raspberry Lemon Sweet Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Activate the yeast and combine wet ingredients

Start by warming your whole milk to a cozy 110-115 degrees Fahrenheit, just the right temperature to awaken the yeast without killing it. Sprinkle the active-dry yeast on top of the warm milk, followed by the granulated sugar to feed the yeast. Within minutes, you will notice a lovely foam forming on top, signaling that your yeast is alive and ready. This is the foundation for your soft rolls. Then whisk in the melted butter, egg, and egg yolk until you have a smooth, cohesive base to work with.

Step 2: Mix and knead the dough

Next, add your flour and salt to the wet mixture and stir with a wooden spoon until the dough comes together. It will be thick and sticky, which is perfect. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, adding a little flour if needed, until the dough becomes elastic and no longer sticks to your hands. This kneading develops the gluten that will give your rolls their tender, fluffy structure. Form your dough into a smooth ball ready to rise.

Step 3: First rise

Place your dough ball into a bowl greased with avocado oil or sprayed with non-stick spray. Cover it with a clean tea towel and let it rest in a warm spot until it doubles in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours. This rest transforms the dough into a lighter, airier texture and prepares it for rolling and filling.

Step 4: Prepare the raspberry lemon filling

While your dough is working its magic, toss together the fresh raspberries, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and cornstarch in a small bowl. The cornstarch will help thicken this beautiful filling as it bakes, preventing it from making the dough soggy, while the lemon zest and vanilla elevate the flavor profile beautifully.

Step 5: Roll out the dough

Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release excess air and place it on a floured surface. Shape into a rough rectangle and roll it out carefully to about 20 by 16 inches, keeping a quarter-inch thickness. This will give you the perfect canvas to spread your luscious filling.

Step 6: Assemble the rolls

Spread the softened butter evenly over the rolled dough as a rich base, followed by a generous layer of raspberry preserves. Finally, scatter the fresh raspberry filling mixture on top, making sure it’s spread evenly. This combination ensures every bite delivers the perfect balance of sweet, tart, and buttery goodness.

Step 7: Roll and slice

Starting with the long side, tightly roll the dough up to form a log. Pinch the seam well to seal the edges and prevent the roll from unraveling. Using a sharp serrated knife or unflavored dental floss, slice the log into 12 even pieces. Place them into a parchment-lined 9×13-inch casserole dish spaced apart in three rows of four.

Step 8: Second rise

Cover your filled pan with a tea towel again and let the rolls rise a second time for 30 to 45 minutes, until they gently puff up and nearly double. This extra rise helps create that signature light and fluffy texture we all adore in sweet rolls.

Step 9: Bake

Bake the rolls on the center rack of a 350-degree oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they develop a beautiful light golden-brown color on top. Once baked, let them cool slightly for about 10 minutes before adding the finishing touch.

Step 10: Prepare the cream cheese icing

Whip together the softened cream cheese, butter, and confectioner’s sugar until smooth and fluffy with a hand mixer. Then, fold in the lemon juice and vanilla extract and beat on high to create a glossy, tangy glaze that beautifully complements the raspberry-filled rolls.

Step 11: Ice and serve

Drizzle or spread the lemon cream cheese frosting over the warm sweet rolls, letting it melt slightly into the swirls, sealing in all that fragrant, fruity goodness. Your Raspberry Lemon Sweet Rolls Recipe is now ready to delight your senses!

How to Serve Raspberry Lemon Sweet Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

To add an extra touch of elegance and freshness, try garnishing your sweet rolls with a few whole fresh raspberries, a sprinkle of additional lemon zest, or a light dusting of confectioner’s sugar. These small details bring brightness and an inviting appearance that will wow your family and guests.

Side Dishes

These rolls shine all on their own but also pair beautifully with a cup of hot coffee or freshly brewed tea. For a more substantial brunch spread, consider serving them alongside fresh fruit salad or yogurt parfaits to balance the sweet richness with light, refreshing notes.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation can take these rolls from delicious to unforgettable. Arrange them on a rustic wooden board or a pretty serving platter with scattered fresh raspberries and edible flowers. You can also place them in individual mini cast iron skillets for single servings that look just as fabulous as they taste.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover rolls keep wonderfully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To keep them fresh longer, wrap them tightly with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to four days. Simply allow to come to room temperature or warm gently before serving.

Freezing

You can freeze un-iced rolls after the second rise by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature, then warm and add your cream cheese icing fresh.

Reheating

Reheat your Raspberry Lemon Sweet Rolls by warming them in a 300-degree oven for 10-15 minutes or microwaving a single roll for 20-30 seconds. The goal is to enjoy them warm and melty, just like fresh from the oven!

FAQs

Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh?

Fresh raspberries work best for texture and flavor, but if you only have frozen, make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in your rolls.

What if my yeast doesn’t foam?

If the yeast fails to foam after 5 minutes in warm milk and sugar, it’s best to discard and start again. Using active, fresh yeast and the correct milk temperature is crucial for a good rise.

Can I make the dough in a stand mixer?

Absolutely! Use the dough hook attachment and knead on medium speed for about 6-8 minutes, until smooth and elastic, instead of hand kneading.

Is there a substitute for cream cheese in the icing?

You can use mascarpone for a similar tangy creaminess or a butter-only glaze, but cream cheese gives the perfect balance to the lemon and raspberry flavors.

How do I prevent the rolls from being soggy?

Using cornstarch in the raspberry filling helps keep it from leaking too much moisture. Also, ensure the dough isn’t rolled too thin to hold the filling without becoming soggy.

Final Thoughts

There is something incredibly special about making and sharing the Raspberry Lemon Sweet Rolls Recipe. The harmonious blend of tart raspberries, bright lemon, and soft, sweet dough is simply unforgettable. These rolls bring a cheerful burst of sunshine to any table and warm hearts with every bite. I hope you enjoy baking and savoring them as much as I do — they truly are a labor of love that pays off in the most delicious way!

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