Whole Wheat Lemon Rolls

We love the smell of lemon.  We use it when we want a clean and enlivening feeling and because of that you will love each step of making these rolls.  We haven’t convinced you to love lemon?  This recipe is adaptable for whatever citrus fruit you love!  Okay, so maybe the only other one you’d try is orange…but that would be just as easy and wonderful to make.

• 1 cup warm water
  Juice from 1 lemon
  
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar*
  • 1/4 cup olive oil*
  • 1 T yeast*
  • 1 egg
  • 4 cups whole wheat flour*
  • 2 tsp salt*
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 1/4 cup sugar*
  zest of 2 lemons
• 2 cups powdered sugar*
  Juice from 1 lemon
  • 2 drops lemon essential oil* (optional)

In a large mixing bowl add warm water, brown sugar, oil and yeast. Mix together and set aside about 5 minutes. Add egg and stir together. Add 3 cups of flour and salt; stir together. Add another 1/4 to 1/2 cup of flour until dough pulls away from bowl. (More flour may be needed.) Knead for 6-8 minutes or until the gluten is developed. (For tips on gluten development click here.)

Place in an oiled bowl and cover with a damp tea towel. Set aside to rise 30 minutes to 1 hour until dough has doubled in size.

Punch dough down to remove any air bubbles. Place on a floured surface and roll into about a 9 x 12 inch rectangle.

Spread with butter and sprinkle with 1/4 cup sugar. Sprinkle with lemon zest. Roll up from the long side, as tight as you can. Pinch the seam to seal.

Cut into 1 to 2 inch slices and place in a well greased baking dish. Cover and allow to rise 15 to 30 minutes.