Lemon Poppy Seed Brioche Rolls are a perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors. These soft, buttery rolls are a delicious treat, ideal for brunch, spring celebrations, or as an indulgent breakfast. The citrusy zing from the lemon, combined with the nutty crunch of poppy seeds, makes each bite an experience to savor. In this detailed recipe, we’ll guide you through creating these irresistible rolls with easy-to-follow steps, variations, and tips to make them your own. Let’s dive into the world of lemony goodness!
What Are Lemon Poppy Seed Brioche Rolls?
Lemon Poppy Seed Brioche Rolls are a rich and indulgent pastry that combines the tender, airy texture of brioche with the refreshing citrus flavor of lemon and the delightful crunch of poppy seeds. These rolls are typically made with a buttery brioche dough, filled with a mixture of browned butter, brown sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and poppy seeds, and topped with a smooth lemon glaze. The result is a delightful, melt-in-your-mouth treat that is perfect for any occasion.
Origin of Lemon Poppy Seed Brioche Rolls
The combination of lemon and poppy seeds is a classic pairing that dates back to European baking traditions. Brioche itself is a French pastry, known for its rich, buttery flavor and soft texture. It has been enjoyed for centuries, with its roots going back to the 16th century in Normandy. Over time, bakers have experimented with different fillings and toppings, creating unique variations of this beloved pastry. The addition of poppy seeds adds a delightful texture, while the lemon brings a zesty, fresh twist that elevates the brioche rolls to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Ingredients for Lemon Poppy Seed Brioche Rolls
Before we begin baking, let’s gather all the ingredients for both the brioche dough, the filling, and the glaze. Below is the full list with exact quantities to ensure you have everything you need for a perfect batch of Lemon Poppy Seed Brioche Rolls.
For the Brioche Dough:
- 3¼ cups (400g) all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp poppy seeds
- 2¼ tsp instant yeast
- 1 tsp salt
- 4 large eggs (room temperature)
- ½ cup (120ml) warm milk
- 10 tbsp (140g) unsalted butter, softened
- Zest of 2 lemons
Filling:
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, browned
- ⅓ cup (70g) brown sugar
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp poppy seeds
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp lemon juice
- Optional: pinch of salt or lemon zest for extra zing
Step-by-Step Directions for Lemon Poppy Seed Brioche Rolls
Now that we’ve got all the ingredients ready, it’s time to get baking! Follow these simple steps to create the perfect Lemon Poppy Seed Brioche Rolls.
1. Make the Dough
In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour, sugar, poppy seeds, yeast, and salt. Add the eggs, warm milk, and lemon zest to the mixture. Using the dough hook attachment, mix until all ingredients are combined. Gradually add the softened butter, one tablespoon at a time, continuing to mix until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. This should take about 10 minutes. If you don’t have a stand mixer, you can knead the dough by hand, but it will take a bit longer.
Once the dough is ready, cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Filling
While the dough is rising, it’s time to make the filling. In a medium saucepan, brown the butter over medium heat. Stir frequently to ensure the butter doesn’t burn. Once the butter has turned golden brown and gives off a nutty aroma, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.
Once the butter has cooled, mix in the brown sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and poppy seeds. Stir until the sugar has dissolved and everything is well combined. Set the filling aside.
3. Shape the Rolls
Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down to release the air. Roll the dough out onto a lightly floured surface into a rectangle that measures about 12×16 inches.
Spread the prepared filling evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Starting from the long side, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Slice the roll into 12 equal pieces.
4. Second Rise
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and arrange the sliced rolls inside. Cover the dish with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let the rolls rise for an additional 45-60 minutes, or until they become puffy and have doubled in size.
5. Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the rolls have risen, place them in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and cooked through. The rolls should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
6. Prepare the Glaze
While the rolls are baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar and lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth. If you prefer an extra burst of lemon flavor, you can add a pinch of salt or some additional lemon zest to the glaze.
7. Glaze the Rolls
Once the rolls are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Drizzle the lemon glaze over the warm rolls, ensuring each roll gets a generous amount of the zesty topping.
Tips and Variations for Lemon Poppy Seed Brioche Rolls
Make-Ahead Tips:
If you’re planning to enjoy these rolls the next morning, you can shape the rolls the night before and refrigerate them overnight. Simply cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. In the morning, let the rolls sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.
Add Extra Flavor:
For an added depth of flavor, you can incorporate almond extract into either the filling or the glaze. This subtle flavor pairs wonderfully with the lemon and poppy seeds, giving the rolls an extra layer of complexity.
No Stand Mixer? No Problem!
If you don’t have a stand mixer, you can knead the dough by hand. While this will take a little longer—about 15-20 minutes of kneading—it’s definitely doable and will yield delicious results.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make these rolls without yeast?
While yeast is key to making brioche dough light and fluffy, you can try using a different type of dough, such as a biscuit dough, if you’re in a pinch. However, the texture and flavor will be different from the classic brioche roll.
Can I freeze Lemon Poppy Seed Brioche Rolls?
Yes! You can freeze the unbaked rolls after shaping them. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or zip-top bag. To bake, allow the rolls to thaw overnight in the fridge and follow the second rise and baking instructions.
Can I use something other than poppy seeds?
Yes, you can substitute poppy seeds with chia seeds or even ground flax seeds for a similar texture. However, poppy seeds provide a distinctive crunch that’s hard to replicate exactly.
Conclusion: Lemon Poppy Seed Brioche Rolls
Lemon Poppy Seed Brioche Rolls are a delightful treat that combines the richness of brioche with the bright, refreshing taste of lemon and the delightful crunch of poppy seeds. This recipe is perfect for a special brunch, holiday gatherings, or simply when you crave something indulgent and flavorful. By following these easy steps, you’ll create a batch of rolls that are not only incredibly delicious but also beautifully aromatic, making them a showstopper at any table. Enjoy baking and sharing these buttery, zesty rolls with friends and family!
Lemon Poppy Seed Brioche Rolls: A Zesty, Buttery Twist on a Classic Sweet Roll
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Lemon Poppy Seed Brioche Rolls are a rich and indulgent pastry that combines the tender, airy texture of brioche with the refreshing citrus flavor of lemon and the delightful crunch of poppy seeds. These rolls are typically made with a buttery brioche dough, filled with a mixture of browned butter, brown sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and poppy seeds, and topped with a smooth lemon glaze. The result is a delightful, melt-in-your-mouth treat that is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Brioche Dough:
- 3¼ cups (400g) all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp poppy seeds
- 2¼ tsp instant yeast
- 1 tsp salt
- 4 large eggs (room temp)
- ½ cup (120ml) warm milk
- 10 tbsp (140g) unsalted butter, softened
- Zest of 2 lemons
For the Filling:
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, browned
- ⅓ cup (70g) brown sugar
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp poppy seeds
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp lemon juice
- Optional: pinch of salt or lemon zest for extra zing
Instructions
- Make the Dough In a stand mixer, combine flour, sugar, poppy seeds, yeast, and salt. Add eggs, milk, and lemon zest. Mix until combined. Gradually add butter, one tablespoon at a time, kneading until dough is smooth and elastic (about 10 minutes). Cover and let rise until doubled (1–2 hours).
- Prepare Filling Brown the butter in a saucepan until golden and nutty. Let cool slightly, then mix with brown sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and poppy seeds.
- Shape Rolls Roll out dough into a rectangle (about 12×16 inches). Spread filling evenly. Roll up tightly from the long side and slice into 12 rolls.
- Second Rise Place rolls in a greased baking dish. Cover and let rise for 45–60 minutes until puffy.
- Bake Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for 25–30 minutes until golden and cooked through.
- Glaze Whisk powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle over warm rolls.
Notes
These lemon poppy seed brioche rolls are soft, buttery, and lightly sweet with a citrusy brightness that makes them irresistible. Perfect for brunch, tea time, or as a special homemade treat, they bring a bakery-style touch right to your table.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes (plus 1 hr 30 min rising)
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: Moderate
Keywords: Lemon Brioche Rolls, Poppy Seed Brioche, Lemon Poppy Rolls, Brioche Rolls with Lemon
