Blueberry Lemon Breakfast Rolls

Name: Blueberry Lemon Breakfast Rolls
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 rolls
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup sugar; 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup milk, heated to 110°F; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; Zest of 1 lemon; 1 cup fresh blueberries; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; Lemon zest for garnish

Highlighted under: Basic Kitchen

I absolutely love waking up to the aroma of freshly baked goods, and these Blueberry Lemon Breakfast Rolls have become a cherished morning ritual in my home. The combination of tangy lemon and sweet blueberries creates the perfect balance of flavors that is both refreshing and uplifting. Trust me, the moment you pull these warm rolls out of the oven, you’ll want to dive right in! They are perfect for lazy weekends or special gatherings, and the best part is that they're surprisingly easy to make.

Created by

Gemma Hollis

Last updated on 2026-02-15T07:53:36.880Z

My journey with these Blueberry Lemon Breakfast Rolls began on a rainy Sunday morning when I craved something bright and comforting. After experimenting with different amounts of lemon zest and blueberries, I found the perfect balance that really elevates the rolls. A touch of lemon zest in the dough adds a wonderful freshness, while the juicy blueberries create bursts of flavor that make every bite delightful.

One essential tip I discovered is to let the dough rest and rise properly. This not only enhances the flavor but also ensures that the rolls become fluffy and tender. Trust me, taking that extra time to let the dough bloom is worth the wait!

Why You'll Love These Rolls
Bright and cheerful combination of lemon and blueberries
Soft and fluffy texture that is perfectly pillowy
A delightful treat to brighten your mornings or brunch gatherings

A Closer Look at the Dough

The dough for these Blueberry Lemon Breakfast Rolls is the foundation for their soft, pillowy texture. Using all-purpose flour provides just the right balance of strength and tenderness, while the activation of yeast is vital for that delightful rise. Ensure that your milk is heated to exactly 110°F; too hot and it can kill the yeast, while too cold won’t activate it properly. Once you’ve kneaded the dough for about five minutes, it should feel smooth and elastic, which is the perfect indication you’re ready for the first rise!

Another crucial step is allowing the dough to rise in a warm environment. If your kitchen is cool, consider placing the bowl in an oven that’s turned off but has the light on, providing a warm, draft-free space. The dough should double in size, which typically takes around an hour. If it doesn’t rise adequately, check the freshness of your yeast; old yeast can lead to disappointing results.

Maximizing Flavor in the Filling

The filling is where you infuse the rolls with that burst of blueberry and zingy lemon flavor. Using fresh blueberries is recommended for their vibrant taste, but if you can’t find them, frozen blueberries can work too—just add them straight from the freezer without thawing to prevent excess moisture. Tossing the blueberries with a bit of sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon not only enhances their sweetness but also adds depth to the overall flavor profile. Make sure to mix gently to avoid mashing the berries.

When spreading the filling over the dough, ensure an even layer up to the edges to maximize each bite’s flavor. If you notice your filling leaking during baking, a little extra flour around the edges of the rolled dough can help seal it better. This will keep the filling nicely contained and prevent the bottom of your rolls from getting soggy.

The Perfect Glaze Finish

Drizzling a glaze over the warm rolls not only adds sweetness but also gives them a beautiful shine. For the glaze, combining powdered sugar and lemon juice creates a balance between sweetness and tartness. You can adjust the consistency to your liking by varying the amount of lemon juice—add more for a thinner glaze that drips more or less for a thicker coating. I recommend mixing until you achieve a glossy texture without any lumps, which usually takes just a minute or two.

For serving, consider topping the rolls with additional fresh blueberries and a sprinkle of lemon zest after glazing them. This not only elevates their presentation but also enhances the citrus and berry flavors, making each roll inviting and deliciously fresh. You can serve these rolls warm or at room temperature, and they pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea.

Ingredients

For the Dough

4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup sugar
1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup milk, heated to 110°F
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
Zest of 1 lemon

For the Filling

1 cup fresh blueberries
1/4 cup sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon cinnamon

For the Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Lemon zest for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm milk, melted butter, eggs, and lemon zest. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth.

First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, gently toss the blueberries with sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon. Set aside.

Shape the Rolls

Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle. Spread the blueberry filling evenly over the dough, then roll it tightly into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces.

Second Rise

Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and let rise for another 30 minutes.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Make the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle over the warm rolls and garnish with lemon zest.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of flavor, try adding a bit of vanilla extract to the glaze. You can also substitute frozen blueberries if fresh ones aren't available, but be sure to thaw and drain them first.

Make-Ahead Tips

These breakfast rolls can be prepared ahead of time, making your mornings much easier. After forming the rolls and before the second rise, you can cover them tightly and refrigerate them overnight. In the morning, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. This will give them a nice puff before they hit the oven, allowing the yeast to wake up and reactivate.

Alternatively, you can freeze the rolls after cutting them into pieces. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a zip-top bag. When you’re ready to bake, simply arrange them in a greased dish, let them thaw and rise for about 1-2 hours, and then bake as directed. This method ensures you have delicious rolls at your convenience.

Storage and Reheating

Once baked, these rolls are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you prefer to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will last for up to three months and can be reheated in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes straight from the freezer.

For a quick snack or breakfast, microwave the defrosted rolls for 15-20 seconds. Avoid reheating too long, as it can dry them out. You can also add a little more glaze just before serving to refresh them and bring back the delicious blueberry-lemon flavor.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different flavor combinations! For instance, you could substitute raspberries for the blueberries for a slightly tart twist or add lemon curd between the dough and the filling for an extra punch of lemon flavor. If you want a spice kick, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon in the filling; it pairs beautifully with the fruity flavors.

For a more decadent touch, add cream cheese to the filling mixture and swirl it in for a rich, cheesecake-like experience. This not only enhances the creaminess but also balances the sweetness of the rolls perfectly. Each of these variations will still capture the essence of the original recipe while allowing you to put your own creative spin on it!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fruits instead of blueberries?

Yes, you can replace blueberries with raspberries or chopped strawberries for a different flavor.

→ How should I store leftover rolls?

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze them for longer storage.

→ Can I prepare the dough the night before?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, let it rise, and then refrigerate it overnight. Let it come to room temperature before shaping.

→ What can I do if my dough doesn’t rise?

Make sure your yeast is fresh and activated. If your kitchen is too cold, try placing the dough in a warmer area or near a slightly warm oven.