Lemon Cream Rolls

Lemon Cream Rolls are a delightful treat that combine the tangy zest of lemons with the rich creaminess of cheesecake pudding. These rolls are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or as a special treat for any occasion. The following recipe will guide you through the steps to create these delicious rolls, ensuring that they come out perfect every time.

Ingredients

For the Rolls:

• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 (24 oz) package Hawaiian rolls
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• Zest of 2 lemons, divided
• 3 cups milk
• 1 (3.4 oz) box instant lemon pudding mix
• 1 (3.4 oz) box instant cheesecake pudding

For the Frosting:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1/3 cup powdered sugar

Instructions

Preparing the Rolls:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure the oven is ready when it’s time to bake the rolls.
2. Prepare the Rolls: Take the Hawaiian rolls and brush the tops with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. This will help give the rolls a rich, golden color as they bake.
3. Cut the Rolls: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally. Make sure to keep the top and bottom halves intact to make it easier to assemble later.
4. Mix Butter and Sugar: In a small bowl, combine the 1/4 cup of melted butter, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and the zest of 1 lemon. This mixture will add a sweet, citrusy flavor to the rolls.
5. Brush the Mixture: Brush the butter and sugar mixture over the cut sides of both the top and bottom halves of the rolls, ensuring they are evenly coated.
6. Bake the Rolls: Place the rolls on a baking sheet and bake for about 5 minutes, or until they are lightly toasted. This step will give the rolls a nice texture and prevent them from becoming soggy when the filling is added. Remove the rolls from the oven and set them aside.

Preparing the Filling:

7. Prepare the Pudding: In a large bowl, whisk together the 3 cups of milk, the instant lemon pudding mix, and the instant cheesecake pudding mix. Continue whisking for about 2 minutes until the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency.
8. Add Lemon Zest: Add the remaining zest of 1 lemon to the pudding mixture and mix well. This will enhance the lemon flavor and add a fresh citrus aroma.
9. Spread the Pudding: Evenly spread the pudding mixture over the bottom half of the Hawaiian rolls. Make sure to cover the entire surface to ensure every bite is filled with the delicious pudding.
10. Assemble the Rolls: Place the top half of the rolls over the pudding-covered bottom half, pressing gently to secure them.

Preparing the Frosting:

11. Mix the Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, 2 tablespoons of milk, and the powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. This frosting will add a sweet, tangy finish to the rolls.
12. Frost the Rolls: Spread the frosting evenly over the top of the assembled rolls, ensuring they are fully covered.
13. Bake Again: Place the rolls back in the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the frosting is slightly golden and set. This will allow the frosting to melt into the rolls, creating a delicious glaze.
14. Serve: Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. This will make them easier to handle and allow the flavors to meld together.

Tips and Variations:

• Extra Zest: For an extra burst of lemon flavor, you can add more lemon zest to the pudding mixture or sprinkle some on top of the frosting before baking.
• Cheesecake Lovers: If you love cheesecake, add an extra box of instant cheesecake pudding mix for a richer, creamier filling.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free rolls if you need a gluten-free option. There are many great gluten-free Hawaiian roll options available.
• Storage: Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving to enjoy them warm and gooey.

Lemon Cream Rolls are an easy and delicious way to enjoy the fresh, tangy flavor of lemons combined with the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake pudding. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy these rolls fresh out of the oven for a treat that’s both comforting and refreshing. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, dessert, or a special treat, these rolls are sure to impress and delight everyone who tries them.