Lemon Cheesecake Rolls

Get ready to delight your taste buds with these incredible Lemon Cheesecake Rolls! Bursting with fresh, zesty lemon flavor and a creamy cheesecake center, these rolls are an absolute must-have for springtime desserts. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving something sweet and tangy, Lemon Cheesecake Rolls bring a perfect balance of lightness, richness, and irresistible aroma to your table. Easy to make and stunning to serve, they’ll become your new favorite seasonal treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright and refreshing flavor: The zesty lemon gives a vibrant twist that feels perfect for spring.
• Creamy cheesecake center: Each roll is filled with smooth, tangy cheesecake for extra indulgence.
• Soft and tender bread: The fluffy rolls have just the right texture to complement the filling.
• Easy to make at home: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps mean anyone can bake these.
• Perfect for sharing: These rolls are crowd-pleasers, great for brunches, parties, or gifts.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple yet essential to creating the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color in your Lemon Cheesecake Rolls. Each element plays a crucial role in crafting a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

• All-purpose flour: Forms the soft and pillowy base of the roll dough.
• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the dough and the cheesecake filling.
• Active dry yeast: Helps the dough rise to the perfect fluffy consistency.
• Milk: Used warm to activate yeast and create tender dough.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness to the dough and melts inside the rolls.
• Eggs: Provide structure and contribute to the golden roll color.
• Cream cheese: The star of the filling for that creamy cheesecake texture.
• Lemon zest and juice: Infuse the rolls with fresh citrus tang and aroma.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances overall flavor and complements the lemon perfectly.
• Powdered sugar: Used for dusting or making a light glaze to finish.

Variations for Lemon Cheesecake Rolls

This recipe is wonderfully versatile, so feel free to personalize it to your taste or dietary preferences. Experimenting with these variations can keep your spring baking exciting and fresh.

• Blueberry lemon rolls: Add fresh or frozen blueberries into the filling for a fruity boost.
• Gluten-free option: Substitute with gluten-free flour blends without compromising texture.
• Vegan adaptation: Use plant-based cream cheese, almond milk, and flax eggs to make them dairy-free.
• Honey lemon glaze: Replace the powdered sugar glaze with a honey and lemon juice drizzle for added depth.
• Poppy seed sprinkle: Add a poppy seed topping for a delightful crunch and pretty visual touch.

How to Make Lemon Cheesecake Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the dough

Begin by warming the milk to activate the yeast, then combine it with sugar, yeast, and let it foam for 5–10 minutes. Mix in melted butter, beaten eggs, and gradually add the flour, kneading until you get a soft, elastic dough. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size.

Step 2: Make the lemon cheesecake filling

While the dough rises, whip together softened cream cheese, sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Set aside in the fridge to keep chilled.

Step 3: Roll out the dough

Once the dough has doubled, punch it down and roll it out into a large rectangle on a floured surface. Spread the lemon cheesecake filling evenly across the dough, leaving a short edge free for sealing.

Step 4: Shape the rolls

Starting from the long edge with the filling, gently roll the dough into a tight log. Use a sharp knife to cut it into evenly sized rolls, about 1.5 to 2 inches wide. Place the rolls in a greased baking pan, spaced slightly apart.

Step 5: Final rise and bake

Cover the rolls with a clean cloth and allow them to rise again for about 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the rolls for 22–25 minutes until golden and cooked through.

Step 6: Add finishing touches

Once cooled slightly, drizzle with a simple lemon glaze or dust with powdered sugar for a pretty, sweet finish that balances the tangy filling perfectly.

Pro Tips for Making Lemon Cheesecake Rolls

• Use room temperature ingredients: This ensures even mixing and better dough texture.
• Don’t overfill: Too much filling can make rolling difficult and cause leaks.
• Roll dough evenly: An even thickness creates consistent baking and beautiful rolls.
• Let dough rise properly: Be patient with the rising times for fluffy, soft rolls.
• Check oven temperature: Use an oven thermometer to bake at the ideal heat for perfect texture.
• Chill filling before use: Keeps the filling firm and easier to spread evenly.

How to Serve Lemon Cheesecake Rolls

Garnishes

Lightly dust the rolls with powdered sugar or drizzle with a tangy lemon glaze to complement their bright flavor. Fresh lemon slices or sprigs of mint add a pretty, fresh look.

Side Dishes

Pair your Lemon Cheesecake Rolls with a fresh berry salad or a dollop of whipped cream for an elegant, balanced dessert experience. They also go wonderfully with hot tea or freshly brewed coffee.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the rolls on a rustic wooden board or a vibrant platter with edible flowers for a charming springtime display. Wrap individual rolls in parchment paper tied with twine for thoughtful gifts or picnic treats.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Lemon Cheesecake Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for 4–5 days to keep the cream cheese filling fresh.

Freezing

Freeze baked rolls by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Warm rolls gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes or microwave for 15–20 seconds to revive their softness and enhance the flavors.

FAQs

Can I use frozen lemon juice for this recipe?

Yes, frozen or bottled lemon juice works fine, but fresh lemon juice offers brighter and more vibrant flavor that elevates the rolls.

What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can substitute with mascarpone or ricotta for a slightly different texture and taste but similar creamy richness.

How do I prevent the filling from leaking?

Ensure you don’t overfill the rolls and seal the edges tightly when rolling to keep the filling contained during baking.

Can I make Lemon Cheesecake Rolls dairy-free?

Absolutely! Use plant-based cream cheese, non-dairy milk, and vegan butter alternatives to enjoy this treat without dairy.

Is it okay to let the dough rise longer?

Yes, a longer rise can develop more flavor, but avoid over-proofing which may cause the dough to collapse during baking.

Final Thoughts

Lemon Cheesecake Rolls are truly a joyous way to celebrate spring with their bright citrus zing and creamy indulgence wrapped in tender, fluffy bread. Perfect for any occasion or just a sweet pick-me-up, they’re as fun to make as they are to share. Give this recipe a try—you’ll fall in love with every delicious bite and probably find yourself baking them again and again!

Related Posts

• NYC Style Pistachio Protein Cookie
• Easy Kinder Bueno Tiramisu
• Reese’s Peanut Butter Balls

Print