In a large mixing bowl add warm water, sugar, oil and yeast. Stir until sugar is dissolved. Set aside about 5 minutes.
Add egg and stir together. Add 2 cups of flour and stir together. Add salt and one more cup of flour and mix well. Add another 1/4 to 1/2 cup of flour until dough pulls away from bowl.
Pour onto a well floured surface and knead 5 minutes, adding additional flour as needed.
Place in a well oiled bowl and cover with a damp tea towel. Set aside to rise 30 minutes to 1 hour until dough has doubled in size.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Punch dough down to remove any air bubbles. Place on a well 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.
Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Mix glaze together and drizzle over sweet rolls.
Serve warm or at room temperature.