1. Prepare the Dough

• In a small bowl, warm 1½ cups of whole milk to 110°F. Add 2¼ teaspoons of instant yeast and let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the milk-yeast mixture, granulated sugar, lemon zest, egg, salt, and melted butter. Mix well.
• Gradually add 3½ cups of flour, mixing with a wooden spoon or dough hook attachment. Add more flour (up to ¾ cup) if needed, until the dough is soft and slightly sticky.

2. Knead and Let the Dough Rise

• Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
• Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

3. Make the Lemon Filling

• In a small bowl, combine ¾ cup of granulated sugar with 1½ tablespoons of lemon zest.
• Soften 5 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a separate bowl.

4. Roll Out the Dough and Add the Filling

• Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a rectangle approximately 16×12 inches.
• Spread the softened butter evenly over the surface of the dough.
• Sprinkle the lemon-sugar mixture over the butter, spreading it to the edges.

5. Roll and Slice the Dough

• Roll the dough tightly from one long edge to the other to form a log.
• Use a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss to cut the log into 12 equal rolls.

6. Let the Rolls Rise Again

• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Arrange the rolls in the dish, leaving space between each roll.
• Cover with a damp towel and let the rolls rise for 30-45 minutes, or until puffy.

7. Bake the Lemon Sweet Rolls

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown on top.

8. Make the Lemon Glaze

• In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
• Gradually add powdered sugar, a pinch of salt, and fresh lemon juice. Beat until creamy and spreadable.

9. Glaze and Garnish

• Once the rolls are out of the oven, let them cool for 5-10 minutes.
• Spread the lemon glaze generously over the warm rolls.
• Garnish with lemon slices and extra lemon zest for a vibrant finishing touch.

10. Serve and Enjoy

• Serve the Lemon Sweet Rolls warm for the best taste. Pair them with coffee, tea, or a refreshing glass of lemonade!