Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until combined.
- Knead the Dough: Gradually add more flour, 1/2 cup at a time, until the dough comes together and is not sticky. Knead on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
- Let It Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
2. Make the Filling
- Prepare Raspberries: In a small bowl, gently mash the raspberries with a fork. Stir in the sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and cornstarch (if using) until well combined.
3. Assemble the Rolls
- Roll Out Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
- Spread Filling: Evenly spread the raspberry filling over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Roll and Cut: Starting from one long side, carefully roll the dough into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Second Rise: Cover the rolls with a towel and let them rise again for about 30 minutes, until puffed.
4. Bake the Rolls
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake: Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. If they start to brown too quickly, cover them loosely with foil.
- Cool: Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
5. Prepare the Lemon Glaze
- Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and milk until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more milk or powdered sugar as needed.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Glaze the Rolls: Drizzle the lemon glaze over the warm rolls while they’re still slightly warm for the best flavor.
- Enjoy: Serve them warm and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors!
Tips for Success
- Fresh Raspberries: If raspberries are out of season, you can use frozen raspberries. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture.
- Storage: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
- Customizable: Feel free to experiment with other fruit fillings, like blueberries or strawberries, for a different twist.
Conclusion
These Raspberry Lemon Rolls are a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of coffee in the morning or serving them at a gathering, they are sure to impress. Try making a batch, and watch them disappear before your eyes! Happy baking!
