Hey there! If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings together the rich, buttery goodness of brioche and the zingy freshness of lemon, you’ve stumbled upon a gem: Lemon Cream Filled Brioche Rolls. These rolls are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or even a sweet snack during the day.
I remember making them for the first time when my son and I decided to have a baking day. The smell of lemon wafting through the kitchen was mouthwatering, and the final product? Absolutely divine!
Why You'll Love This Lemon Cream Filled Brioche Rolls
First off, let’s talk about the brioche. This bread is soft, fluffy, and rich with flavor. It’s like a warm hug for your taste buds! The lemon cream filling is light yet tart, perfectly complementing the sweet dough. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare these rolls, even if you’re new to baking. Plus, they look fancy enough to impress guests at any gathering, but they are simple enough to make on a cozy Sunday afternoon.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a holiday brunch or just a regular weekday, these sweet rolls fit right in. They’re also a fantastic way to use up lemons if you have a surplus from your last grocery haul. I often find myself with extra lemons after making lemonade for my son. Now, I have the perfect excuse to turn them into something sweet!
Flavor Explosion
The combination of the buttery brioche and the zesty lemon cream filling creates a flavor explosion in your mouth. It’s like summer on a plate! You’ll find that each bite leaves you wanting more. Trust me, these dessert rolls will be the star of your breakfast or dessert table.
Ingredients You'll Need for This Lemon Cream Filled Brioche Rolls

- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 250mg
Steps to Create Your Lemon Cream Filled Brioche Rolls
- Start by warming the milk in a small saucepan until it’s just warm to the touch. Remove from heat and stir in the yeast, letting it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and add in the melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and the yeast mixture.
- Mix everything until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
- While the dough is rising, prepare the lemon cream filling. In a medium bowl, beat the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gradually add the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest, mixing until well combined.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide it into equal pieces and shape each piece into a ball.
- Place the dough balls on a greased baking sheet, cover, and let them rise again for about 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
- After baking, let the rolls cool slightly before filling them with the lemon cream. You can use a piping bag or a small spoon to carefully add the filling.
- Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your delicious creations!

Tips for Making the Best Lemon Cream Filled Brioche Rolls
Over the years, I’ve learned a few baking tips that really help elevate these rolls. For the best texture, make sure your ingredients are at room temperature. This helps everything blend together seamlessly, resulting in that soft, pillowy brioche we all crave.
Don’t Rush the Rising
Patience is key! Allowing the dough to rise properly will lead to fluffier rolls. If you’re short on time, a warm oven (turned off) can create a cozy spot for the dough to rise quicker.
Variations to Try
If lemon isn’t your thing, feel free to switch it out for orange or lime. You could also add some poppy seeds or fresh berries into the cream for an extra twist. Experimenting with flavors can bring new life to this classic recipe!
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
These lemon cream filled brioche rolls are perfect on their own, but you can also pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon break. They also make a sweet addition to a brunch spread alongside fresh fruit, yogurt, or even a light salad.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them for up to a month. Just reheat them in the oven for a few minutes when you’re ready to enjoy them again!
Final Thoughts
Making Lemon Cream Filled Brioche Rolls is a rewarding experience that brings joy to both the baker and those who enjoy the treats. I hope you give these rolls a try, whether for a special occasion or just a regular Saturday. Remember, the best part of baking is sharing your creations with others. Happy baking!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are lemon cream filled brioche rolls?
They are soft, fluffy rolls made from brioche dough and filled with a light, zesty lemon cream. Perfect for breakfast or dessert!
How do you make lemon cream filling for brioche rolls?
Beat heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then mix in powdered sugar, lemon juice, and zest for a delicious filling. It’s that simple!
Can I use store-bought brioche for lemon cream filled rolls?
Absolutely! Store-bought brioche can save time, and you can still fill it with your homemade lemon cream. It’s a great shortcut.
What are some tips for making flaky brioche dough?
Ensure your butter is cold and work quickly to keep the dough chilled. Also, don’t skip the resting periods; they help develop the texture.
How long do lemon cream filled brioche rolls last?
They’ll stay fresh for about two days at room temperature in an airtight container. You can freeze them for longer storage.
Lemon Cream Filled Brioche Rolls
Soft and fluffy brioche rolls filled with a zesty lemon cream, perfect for breakfast or dessert!
- Total Time: 150
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 zest of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Start by warming the milk in a small saucepan until it’s just warm to the touch. Remove from heat and stir in the yeast, letting it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and add in the melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and the yeast mixture.
- Mix everything until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
- While the dough is rising, prepare the lemon cream filling. In a medium bowl, beat the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gradually add the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest, mixing until well combined.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide it into equal pieces and shape each piece into a ball.
- Place the dough balls on a greased baking sheet, cover, and let them rise again for about 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
- After baking, let the rolls cool slightly before filling them with the lemon cream. You can use a piping bag or a small spoon to carefully add the filling.
- Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your delicious creations!
- Prep Time: 120
- Cook Time: 20
Nutrition
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 6g