Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls
Soft and fluffy Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls are a delightful treat perfect for breakfast or dessert. These rolls are filled with a luscious homemade lemon curd and topped with zesty lemon icing. Their bright flavor makes them suitable for any occasion, whether it’s a family brunch, a cozy afternoon tea, or a festive gathering. Enjoy the balance of sweetness and tartness in every bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Zesty Flavor: The bright taste of lemon makes these rolls refreshing and enjoyable.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy these rolls as breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack any time of day.
- Plant-Based Goodness: Made entirely without animal products, they cater to vegan diets.
- Impressive Presentation: The beautiful icing and fresh lemon garnish create an aesthetically pleasing dish.

Tools and Preparation
To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare your Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Baking tray
- Rolling pin
- Pastry brush
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients effectively.
- Whisk: Helps incorporate air into your mixture for fluffier rolls.
- Baking tray: Provides an even surface for the rolls to rise and bake properly.
Ingredients
Soft and fluffy Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls are filled with a homemade lemon curd, topped with lemon icing. They’re zesty, sweet, and delicious.
For the Dough:
- 115g of dairy-free butter
- 400ml of dairy-free milk (room temperature)
- 50g of caster sugar
- 1 pack active dry yeast (approx 7g)
- 500g of plain flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 2 lemons (zest only)
For the Lemon Curd Filling:
- 80g of lemon juice (from fresh lemons)
- 125g of coconut milk (cream only)
- 125g of caster sugar
- 3 tablespoons of cornflour / cornstarch
- Pinch of turmeric (or yellow food gel) optional
For the Topping:
- 1 pot of Renshaw Lemon Icing
- Fresh lemons (zest and slices)
How to Make Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a mixing bowl, melt the dairy-free butter.
- Add the dairy-free milk and caster sugar; stir until combined.
- Sprinkle the yeast over the mixture and let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- Gradually add the flour and lemon zest, mixing until a dough forms.
Step 2: Knead the Dough
- Transfer the dough onto a floured surface.
- Knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes or until doubled in size.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Curd Filling
- In a saucepan, combine lemon juice, coconut milk, caster sugar, cornflour, and turmeric if using.
- Heat over medium heat while stirring constantly until it thickens.
- Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before using.
Step 4: Assemble the Rolls
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle shape.
- Spread the lemon curd filling evenly over the dough.
- Roll tightly from one end to form a log; cut into equal pieces.
Step 5: Bake the Rolls
- Place each roll into a greased baking tray.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before drizzling with lemon icing.
Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls!
How to Serve Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls
Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these rolls will brighten up any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.
With Fresh Fruit
- Serve with a selection of fresh berries or citrus slices for a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the rolls.
Accompanied by Tea or Coffee
- Pair these sweet rolls with a warm cup of herbal tea or coffee to complement their zesty flavors and create a cozy atmosphere.
Topped with Extra Lemon Icing
- Drizzle more Renshaw Lemon Icing on top just before serving for an extra burst of lemony goodness.
As Part of a Brunch Spread
- Include the rolls in a larger brunch menu alongside other vegan dishes like avocado toast or fruit salad for a well-rounded meal.
Garnished with Zest
- Sprinkle additional lemon zest on top just before serving to enhance the aroma and visual appeal of your sweet rolls.
How to Perfect Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls
To achieve the best results with your Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your rolls turn out perfectly fluffy and delicious every time.
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Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure that the dairy-free milk and butter are at room temperature to help create a smooth dough and promote even rising.
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Knead thoroughly: Knead the dough well for about 5-10 minutes. This develops gluten, giving your rolls their desired soft and fluffy texture.
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Let it rise adequately: Be patient during the rising process. Allow the dough to double in size; this is crucial for lightness in your sweet rolls.
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Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on your rolls while they bake. They should be golden brown but not overcooked. Every oven is different!
Best Side Dishes for Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls
These Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls pair beautifully with various side dishes, adding balance and variety to your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.
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Vegan Yogurt Parfait: Layer dairy-free yogurt with granola and fresh fruits for a creamy complement to the sweet rolls.
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Avocado Toast: A savory avocado toast topped with salt and pepper offers a nice contrast to the sweetness of the lemon rolls.
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Citrus Salad: A light citrus salad with oranges, grapefruits, and mint will enhance the lemon flavor in the sweet rolls.
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Chia Pudding: Creamy chia pudding can serve as a nutritious side dish that balances out the richness of the sweet rolls.
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Nutty Granola Bars: These bars provide crunch and nutrition, making them an ideal pairing alongside your soft lemon treats.
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Smoothie Bowl: A vibrant smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds creates a refreshing addition next to your baked goods.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls can be simple and fun, but some common mistakes can ruin your experience. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Incorrect yeast usage: Using expired yeast can lead to dense rolls. Always check the expiration date before starting.
- Over-kneading the dough: Kneading too much can make the rolls tough. Aim for a soft, elastic dough without overdoing it.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is precise. Use a kitchen scale for best results, especially for flour and sugar.
- Skipping lemon zest: The zest adds essential flavor. Don’t skip this step; it’s key to achieving that zesty taste.
- Ignoring resting time: Dough needs time to rise properly. Patience is crucial for fluffy rolls.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking.
Freezing Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls
- Freeze in an airtight container or zip-top bag for up to 3 months.
- Ensure they are completely cooled before freezing.
Reheating Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat rolls for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat one roll at a time on medium power for 20-30 seconds.
- Stovetop: Warm in a covered skillet on low heat for a few minutes, checking frequently.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls?
Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls are delightful pastries made without animal products, featuring a zesty lemon curd filling and topped with lemon icing.
How do I know when my dough has risen enough?
The dough should double in size and feel light and airy when ready, typically taking about an hour in a warm environment.
Can I make these rolls gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute plain flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Ensure it contains xanthan gum for structure.
How long do Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls last?
When stored correctly, they last up to 3 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.
Final Thoughts
These Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls are not just a treat; they’re perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack. The bright lemon flavor paired with fluffy dough makes them irresistible. Feel free to customize the filling with berries or different citrus fruits to suit your tastes!
Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls
Indulge in the delightful taste of Vegan Lemon Sweet Rolls, a perfect blend of softness and zest. Filled with a luscious homemade lemon curd and drizzled with bright lemon icing, these rolls are ideal for any occasion—be it breakfast, dessert, or a cozy afternoon snack. Their light, fluffy texture paired with the refreshing flavor of lemon makes them a crowd-pleaser. Easy to prepare, they cater to both novice and experienced bakers while being entirely plant-based. Experience the balance of sweetness and tartness in every bite of these irresistible treats.
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 rolls 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients
- 115g dairy-free butter
- 400ml dairy-free milk
- 50g caster sugar
- 1 pack active dry yeast (approx 7g)
- 500g plain flour
- 2 lemons (zest only)
- 80g lemon juice (fresh)
- 125g coconut milk (cream only)
- 3 tablespoons cornflour
Instructions
- Melt dairy-free butter in a mixing bowl. Combine with dairy-free milk and caster sugar; sprinkle yeast over this mixture and let it froth for about 5 minutes.
- Gradually add flour and lemon zest until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth.
- Let the dough rise in a greased bowl covered with a towel for roughly 30 minutes or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the lemon curd by heating lemon juice, coconut milk, sugar, cornflour, and turmeric in a saucepan until thickened.
- Roll out the dough, spread with lemon curd, roll tightly, cut into pieces, place in a greased tray, and bake at 180°C (350°F) for about 25-30 minutes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 215
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg