Lemon Blueberry Rolls

1. Dissolve the yeast in 1 cup of lukewarm water, stirring gently with a spoon. Allow it to sit undisturbed for approximately five minutes, until it becomes foamy.

2. Place shortening, sugar, and salt in the bowl of a stand mixer. Pour hot water over the ingredients and beat for 30 seconds. Allow the mixture to cool to lukewarm temperature. Stir in 2 cups of flour and mix until a smooth batter forms. Add the yeast mixture and continue mixing until well combined. Finally, incorporate the beaten eggs into the mixture.

3. Add the remaining flour gradually and mix using the dough hook attachment for approximately 2 minutes. Once the dough has come together, remove it from the bowl and transfer it to a lightly floured countertop. Knead the dough by hand, adding a small amount of flour if necessary to prevent sticking. Continue kneading until the dough feels smooth and elastic, with a satiny texture.

4. Place the dough in a bowl that has been greased, then cover it with a towel. Allow the dough to rise for approximately 30 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.

5. Take the dough out of the bowl and transfer it onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into two equal halves. Using a rolling pin, roll out one portion of the dough into a rectangular shape. Spread 4 tablespoons of softened butter evenly over the dough. In a small bowl, mix together the sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice, rubbing them together with your fingers until fragrant. Sprinkle half of the lemon sugar mixture over the buttered dough, reserving the remaining half for the second portion of dough. Next, distribute 1 cup of blueberries evenly across the sugary dough.

6. Carefully roll the dough into a long log shape. To cut the rolls, use a piece of dental floss or thread and slide it underneath the log, crossing the ends over the top and pulling to slice through the dough. Make cuts that are approximately two inches thick. Arrange the cut rolls in a greased 9×13 baking pan, ensuring there is some space between each roll to allow for rising.

7.Place the rolls in a warm spot and cover them with a towel. Allow the rolls to rise until they have doubled in size, which usually takes about an hour. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Once the rolls have risen, bake them in the oven for 25-32 minutes or until they turn golden brown on top. Make sure the insides are soft and cooked through, but not doughy. Take the pans out of the oven and let the rolls cool on a wire rack until they reach a slightly warm temperature.