Have you ever craved a warm, gooey dish that combines the comforting flavors of fresh bread with a bright, zesty twist? Lemon Roll Pull Apart Bread is just that! Picture fluffy, golden rolls bursting with sweet lemon flavor, inviting you to tear them apart piece by piece. It’s the perfect treat for family gatherings or cozy winter evenings. Many years ago, my grandmother would make a similar bread, and I could hardly wait for it to come out of the oven. The smell would waft through the house, creating a warm atmosphere that made every winter evening feel special. This delightful recipe stands out with its easy preparation, appealing to both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. If you love to bake, you might also enjoy my irresistible Cinnamon Roll Casserole recipe. Both are a hit and perfect for serving a crowd!
What is Lemon Roll Pull Apart Bread?
Now, let’s get to the fun part! What exactly is this Lemon Roll Pull Apart Bread? Is it a roll? Is it a bread? Honestly, it might just be a buttery, citrusy miracle! Imagine rolls that are so soft and tender, they’re practically begging you to pluck them apart and indulge. It’s the kind of dish you can enjoy at any time, whether it’s breakfast, dessert, or even a snack. As they say, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this bread is here to steal the show! So, why not make it today? You’ll love the smiles it brings around the table.
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Roll Pull Apart Bread
There’s plenty to love about Lemon Roll Pull Apart Bread! First off, the main highlight is its unique and satisfying texture. The rolls are fluffy on the inside and slightly crispy on the outside, making every bite a delightful experience. Secondly, making this bread at home is a cost-effective way to treat your loved ones, especially compared to overpriced bakery items. And let’s not forget the toppings! You can drizzle additional lemon glaze or sprinkle some powdered sugar on top for an extra zing. If you’ve tried a traditional cinnamon roll, you’ll find that this recipe offers an exciting twist with that delightful citrus flavor. So go ahead and gather those ingredients for an unforgettable baking experience!
How to Make Lemon Roll Pull Apart Bread
Quick Overview
Preparing Lemon Roll Pull Apart Bread is a breeze! It’s an easy and satisfying dish that takes only about 20 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to bake. The outcome? A soft and decadent bread that’s bursting with lemony goodness. What could be better?
Key Ingredients for Lemon Roll Pull Apart Bread
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious Lemon Roll Pull Apart Bread:
- For the Dough:
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup warm whole milk
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
- For the Lemon Filling:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- Zest of 2 lemons
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, softened
- For the Lemon Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Make sure to check your ingredients beforehand to keep everything halal and fresh!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. Add the eggs and melted butter, and mix until well combined. Gradually introduce the flour and salt, and knead until a soft dough forms. - Let it Rise:
Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm environment for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size. - Make the Filling:
In a separate bowl, mix the softened butter, granulated sugar, and lemon zest until creamy. Set aside. - Form the Rolls:
Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a floured surface to form a rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Spread the lemon filling evenly over the dough. Cut it into strips, and then stack those strips on top of each other. Finally, cut them into squares. - Arrange in the Pan:
Layer the squares in a greased baking dish, stacking them on top of one another. Cover and let them rise again for about 30 minutes. - Bake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown on top. - Prepare the Glaze:
While the rolls are baking, whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle over the warm pull-apart bread once it cools slightly.
Top Tips for Perfecting Lemon Roll Pull Apart Bread
Here are some pro-tips to help you achieve the ultimate Lemon Roll Pull Apart Bread:
- Ingredient Substitutions: Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option, or substitute almond milk for the whole milk for a nutty flavor.
- Timing Matters: To achieve the best texture, don’t skip the rising times! Patience truly pays off here.
- Common Mistakes to Avoid: Be careful not to over-knead the dough, which can result in a dense loaf. You want that signature pull-apart texture.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers (though I doubt it!), you can store them at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate the bread, and it will keep fresh for up to a week. Reheat it gently in the oven or microwave just before serving to maintain that soft, pillowy texture.
Now that you have the recipe, why not roll up your sleeves and give this Lemon Roll Pull Apart Bread a go? Your family will be thanking you for this delightful treat, and you’ll have a new favorite recipe in your hands. Happy baking!

Lemon Roll Pull Apart Bread
Ingredients
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Add the eggs and melted butter, and mix until well combined.
- Gradually introduce the flour and salt, and knead until a soft dough forms.
- Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm environment for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
- In a separate bowl, mix the softened butter, granulated sugar, and lemon zest until creamy. Set aside.
- Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a floured surface to form a rectangle about ¼ inch thick.
- Spread the lemon filling evenly over the dough.
- Cut it into strips, and then stack those strips on top of each other. Finally, cut them into squares.
- Layer the squares in a greased baking dish, stacking them on top of one another.
- Cover and let them rise again for about 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown on top.
- While the rolls are baking, whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth.
- Drizzle over the warm pull-apart bread once it cools slightly.

Leave a Reply