Orange Sweet Rolls are a delightful pastry experience that combines tender, fluffy dough with a sweet, citrusy filling and a luscious icing. Imagine waking up to the warm aroma of freshly baked rolls that envelop your kitchen, enticing family and friends to gather around the breakfast table.
This recipe is perfect for a weekend brunch or a cozy holiday morning, as it is not only delicious but also surprisingly easy to make. Follow this step-by-step guide, and indulge in these sweet treats that will leave everyone wanting more!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Orange Sweet Rolls recipe stands out for several reasons. First, the preparation is straightforward, making it accessible even for novice bakers. The ingredients are simple and likely items you already have at home, ensuring minimal fuss at the grocery store. Plus, this recipe is family-friendly—everyone can kick off their day with delicious homemade rolls.
The sweet, zesty flavor of orange adds a refreshing twist to the traditional cinnamon roll, making them feel special and festive. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of coffee or serving them at a gathering, these rolls will surely impress. The combination of the fragrant orange and the soft, pillowy texture creates a treat that’s hard to resist.
Ingredients for Orange Sweet Rolls
To create your delicious Orange Sweet Rolls, gather the following ingredients, each playing a vital role in crafting these mouthwatering pastries:
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, warmed to about 100°F (38°C): This adds moisture and a rich taste to the dough.
- 6 Tablespoons (75g) granulated sugar, divided: Sweetness throughout the dough and the filling.
- 1 Tablespoon (9g) active dry or instant yeast: This is essential for the dough to rise.
- 5 Tablespoons (71g) unsalted butter, softened: For a rich, buttery flavor and dough texture.
- 2 Tablespoons (30ml) freshly squeezed orange juice: Adds a tangy, bright flavor.
- 1 Tablespoon fresh orange zest: Enhances the citrus aroma.
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature: Gives the dough structure and richness.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
- 4 cups (530g) bread flour, plus more for rolling: Creates a soft and chewy texture.
- 6 Tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, softened for filling: More rich flavor and moisture.
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar (or brown sugar): For a sweet filling.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice.
- 1 Tablespoon fresh orange zest for filling: A boost of citrusy goodness.
- 1 and 1/4 cups (150g) confectioners’ sugar for icing: Creates a sweet, glossy glaze.
- 3 Tablespoons (45ml) freshly squeezed orange juice for icing: Adds freshness and flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: A touch of aromatic depth.
Step-by-Step Directions
- In a stand mixer bowl, whisk together the warm milk, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and yeast. Allow this mixture to sit for 5 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step ensures that your yeast is activated and ready to make the dough rise beautifully.
- Next, add the remaining granulated sugar, softened butter, freshly squeezed orange juice, orange zest, eggs, salt, and 1 cup of flour to the yeast mixture. Beat everything on medium speed for one minute until it’s well combined and somewhat smooth.
- Gradually incorporate the remaining flour into the mixture until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough for 6 to 8 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. If necessary, sprinkle in a little more flour to avoid stickiness.
- Lightly grease a bowl, place your dough in it, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size. This will take about 1.5 to 2 hours, so it’s the perfect time to relax or prepare other elements for your meal.
- Once your dough has risen, grease a baking dish. Punch down the dough gently to remove excess air, then roll it into a rectangle measuring approximately 10×16 inches on a floured surface.
- Spread the softened butter generously on the rolled-out dough. In a separate bowl, mix the filling ingredients: the remaining sugar, ground cinnamon, and fresh orange zest. Sprinkle this mixture over the buttered dough, spreading it evenly.
- Carefully roll the dough tightly into a log, starting from one edge to the other, and then slice it into 12 equal pieces. Arrange these rolls in the greased baking dish, leaving a bit of space between them, and let them rise again for about 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Once the rolls have puffed up, bake them for 25-28 minutes, until they are golden brown. The sweet smell will fill your kitchen, signaling that something special is on its way.
- For the icing, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, freshly squeezed orange juice, and pure vanilla extract until smooth.
- Once the rolls are slightly cooled, drizzle the creamy icing over the top while they’re still warm. Serve these Orange Sweet Rolls fresh out of the oven for the ultimate experience!
Tips & Tricks
To ensure your Orange Sweet Rolls turn out perfectly, here are a few chef’s secrets and cooking hacks:
- Make sure your milk is not too hot when mixing with yeast, as excessive heat can kill the yeast. Aim for lukewarm, about 100°F (38°C).
- If you’re short on time, you can prepare the dough the night before, allow it to rise in the refrigerator, and bake it fresh in the morning.
- For the filling, feel free to experiment by adding chopped nuts or even dried fruit for added texture and flavor.
- Let the rolls cool for just a few minutes before icing to achieve that perfect gooey glaze without it melting away.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
These Orange Sweet Rolls are delightful on their own, but pairing them with other breakfast items enhances your experience. Consider serving them with:
- Fresh fruit salad featuring berries, kiwi, and banana for a refreshing complement.
- A warm cup of herbal tea or fresh coffee to balance the sweetness.
- Yogurt or granola for a textural contrast, making your breakfast more hearty.
For a unique twist, try adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a side of cream cheese for dipping.
Nutritional Information
Each of these luscious Orange Sweet Rolls not only brings joy to your taste buds but also a comforting indulgence in moderation. On average, a single roll contains approximately 230 calories, making it a delightful treat for special occasions. When topped with icing, you’re looking at an indulgent dessert that’s worth the calories, especially when shared with loved ones.
Storing Tips & Variations for Orange Sweet Rolls
To maintain the freshness of your Orange Sweet Rolls, here are a few storage tips:
- Freezing: If you have leftovers, these rolls freeze well. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw and warm them in the oven.
- Reheating: Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for about 10 minutes, or microwave them for a few seconds to warm up.
- Healthier Swaps: For a slightly healthier version, substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or use low-fat milk.
- Creative Variations: You could change the flavor profile by substituting the orange juice and zest with lemon or even adding a bit of cardamom for a unique flavor twist.
Conclusion for Orange Sweet Rolls
It’s time to treat yourself and your loved ones by making these scrumptious Orange Sweet Rolls. The sweet and citrusy flavors meld beautifully with the soft, fluffy texture of the dough, creating a breakfast experience that’s hard to beat. Don’t just dream about these delights; gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and make today the day you bring these warm, delicious rolls to your kitchen!
FAQs
- Can I prepare the dough the night before?
Yes! You can make the dough the night before and refrigerate it to save time in the morning. Just allow it to come to room temperature before baking. - What’s the best way to soften butter?
The quickest way to soften butter is to cut it into small pieces and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can use the microwave on low power in 5-second intervals. - Can I use a bread machine for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use a bread machine to knead the dough; just add the ingredients in the order specified by the machine’s instructions. - How can I make the icing more flavorful?
You can enhance the icing by adding a bit of orange extract for additional flavor or interchange the orange juice with a flavored syrup. - What is the best way to store leftover rolls?
Store leftover Orange Sweet Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or freeze them for longer preservation, ensuring they stay fresh and delicious for later enjoyment.
Orange Sweet Rolls
- Total Time: 145 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful pastry experience with tender, fluffy dough, a sweet citrus filling, and luscious icing, perfect for brunch.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, warmed to about 100°F (38°C)
- 6 Tablespoons (75g) granulated sugar, divided
- 1 Tablespoon (9g) active dry or instant yeast
- 5 Tablespoons (71g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 Tablespoons (30ml) freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 Tablespoon fresh orange zest
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups (530g) bread flour, plus more for rolling
- 6 Tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, softened for filling
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar (or brown sugar)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 Tablespoon fresh orange zest for filling
- 1 and 1/4 cups (150g) confectioners’ sugar for icing
- 3 Tablespoons (45ml) freshly squeezed orange juice for icing
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a stand mixer bowl, whisk together the warm milk, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and yeast. Allow it to sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add remaining sugar, softened butter, orange juice, orange zest, eggs, salt, and 1 cup of flour to the yeast mixture. Beat on medium speed for 1 minute until well combined.
- Gradually incorporate remaining flour until a soft dough forms. Knead for 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Lightly grease a bowl, place the dough in it, cover with a towel, and let rise until doubled in size, about 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Grease a baking dish. Punch down the dough gently, roll into a rectangle measuring 10×16 inches on a floured surface.
- Spread softened butter on rolled-out dough. Mix filling ingredients and sprinkle evenly over the buttered dough.
- Roll the dough tightly into a log, slice into 12 equal pieces, and arrange in the greased baking dish. Let rise again for 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Bake rolls for 25-28 minutes until golden brown.
- For icing, whisk together confectioners’ sugar, orange juice, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Drizzle icing over warm rolls and serve fresh out of the oven.
Notes
Make sure the milk is not too hot to avoid killing the yeast. You can prepare the dough the night before and refrigerate it.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 28 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
