Lemon Sweet Rolls

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 cup whole milk, warmed to 110°F (43°C)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for filling)
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (for glaze)
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (for glaze)

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, sugar, and salt. Create a well in the center and add the frothy yeast mixture, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
3. Gradually mix in the remaining flour, one cup at a time, until a soft dough begins to form.
4. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until it is smooth and elastic.
5. Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. While the dough is rising, prepare the lemon filling by mixing the softened butter, sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice in a medium bowl until smooth and creamy.
7. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle, approximately 12x18 inches.
8. Spread the lemon filling evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
9. Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seams to seal.
10. Slice the log into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, cut side up. Cover with a towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes.
11. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
12. While the rolls are baking, prepare the lemon glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and zest in a small bowl until smooth.
13. Allow the rolls to cool slightly after baking, then drizzle the lemon glaze generously over the warm rolls before serving.