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Glazed Orange Rolls

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Some flavors have a way of transporting us to special moments, and Glazed Orange Rolls are one of them. There’s something magical about the combination of soft, pillowy dough infused with citrusy sweetness, topped with a sticky, fragrant glaze. Whether it’s for a cozy morning, a holiday brunch, or just a comforting treat, these orange sweet rolls bring warmth and nostalgia in every bite.

Warm and golden orange rolls being drizzled with fresh citrus glaze from a cup.

The first time I made Glazed Orange Rolls, it was a chilly weekend morning, and the smell of fresh oranges filled my kitchen. As I kneaded the dough, I thought back to childhood visits to my grandmother’s house, where a plate of buttery orange rolls always sat waiting on the counter. She never wrote down her recipe, but I remember the way she’d zest oranges with a smile, humming softly as she worked. Baking these homemade orange rolls now, I realize that some recipes aren’t just about taste—they’re about memories, too.

In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about making orange cinnamon rolls, from essential ingredients to expert baking tips. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this guide will help you create the most flavorful Glazed Orange Rolls you’ve ever tasted.

Why You’ll Love These Glazed Orange Rolls

Here’s why this recipe is a must-try:

  • Soft and Fluffy: The dough is light, airy, and melts in your mouth.
  • Citrus Perfection: Fresh orange zest and juice give these sweet orange rolls a burst of flavor.
  • Easy to Make: With simple steps, even beginners can master this orange-infused dough recipe.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for holidays, brunch, or just a special treat.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the night before and bake fresh in the morning.

First-by-First Guide to Making Glazed Orange Rolls

First: Preparing the Dough

Before you begin, gather these key ingredients for your orange sweet rolls:

Dough Ingredients:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • Âź cup granulated sugar
  • 2 Âź teaspoons instant dry yeast
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • ½ cup buttermilk
  • 2 large eggs, lightly whisked

Instructions:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
  2. In a separate bowl, melt the butter and add buttermilk. Warm the mixture slightly.
  3. Add the butter mixture to the dry ingredients, followed by the eggs.
  4. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth.
  5. Cover and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 2 hours until it doubles in size.

Soft and fluffy glazed orange rolls drizzled with citrusy orange glaze, served on a white plate.

Second: Preparing the Orange Filling

The secret to a rich, citrusy flavor lies in the filling of these homemade orange sweet rolls. You’ll need:

Filling Ingredients:

  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
  • 1 cup orange marmalade
  • ½ cup light brown sugar

Instructions:

  1. Roll out the dough into a large rectangle.
  2. Spread the softened butter evenly over the surface.
  3. Add the orange marmalade and spread it evenly.
  4. Sprinkle brown sugar on top and lightly press it into the dough.

For those who love sweet and savory combinations, you might also enjoy these Cheesy Chicken Pasta or Buffalo Chicken Pasta recipes. They pair wonderfully with a side of these citrus-glazed rolls!

Third: Rolling and Baking

Once the filling is in place, it’s time to shape your buttery orange rolls.

Instructions:

  1. Starting from the long side, tightly roll the dough into a log.
  2. Using dental floss or a sharp knife, cut the log into 20 equal rolls.
  3. Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
  4. Cover and let them rise for another hour until puffy.
  5. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes until golden brown.

Looking for another comforting meal? Try this Crockpot Beef and Noodles for a hearty, slow-cooked dinner that complements the sweetness of these Glazed Orange Rolls.

Fourth: Making the Orange Glaze

A drizzle of sweet, citrusy glaze takes these sweet orange breakfast rolls to the next level.

Glaze Ingredients:

  • Âź cup orange juice
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
  • 3 tablespoons milk or cream
  • 3 teaspoons orange zest

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, whisk together orange juice, vanilla, and confectioners’ sugar.
  2. Add milk gradually until the glaze reaches a smooth consistency.
  3. Stir in orange zest for extra citrus flavor.
  4. Drizzle the glaze over the warm orange cinnamon rolls right after baking.

FAQs About Glazed Orange Rolls

How Do I Make These Rolls Healthier?

To lighten up this sweet orange roll recipe, consider using:

  • Whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour.
  • Less sugar or a natural sweetener.
  • Low-fat buttermilk.

Can I Make Orange Rolls Ahead of Time?

Yes! Prepare the orange sticky buns and place them in the fridge overnight before baking them fresh in the morning.

What’s the Best Way to Store Orange Rolls?

Store these homemade orange rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Avoid refrigeration as it can dry them out.

Can I Freeze Orange Rolls?

Absolutely! Bake and cool them first, then freeze for up to 6 months. Thaw and glaze before serving.

How Can I Get a Stronger Orange Flavor?

Increase the amount of orange zest and use an orange extract in the glaze for extra citrus intensity in your Glazed Orange Rolls.

Freshly baked orange cinnamon rolls in a baking dish, coated with a glossy orange glaze.

Conclusion

Making Glazed Orange Rolls from scratch is a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of fresh citrus and warm dough. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or treating yourself, these homemade orange sweet rolls will never disappoint.

If you’re in the mood for more comfort food recipes, check out this Easy Cracker Barrel Meatloaf—a perfect main dish to enjoy with your freshly baked orange cinnamon rolls.

Try this recipe today and let us know how it turns out! If you love it, don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below or tag us on social media. Happy baking!

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Glazed Orange Rolls Recipe

These Glazed Orange Rolls are soft, fluffy, and bursting with citrus flavor! Filled with a buttery orange marmalade mixture and topped with a sweet orange glaze, they make the perfect breakfast or brunch treat. Enjoy a homemade version of this bakery-style favorite!

  • Author: Julia Child
  • Prep Time: 30 mins
  • Rise Time: 3 hrs
  • Cook Time: 15 mins
  • Total Time: 3 hrs 45 mins
  • Yield: 20 rolls
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Dough:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • Âź cup granulated sugar
  • 2 Âź teaspoons instant dry yeast
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • ½ cup buttermilk
  • 2 large eggs, lightly whisked

Filling:

  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
  • 1 cup orange marmalade
  • ½ cup light brown sugar

Glaze:

  • Âź cup orange juice
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
  • 3 tablespoons milk or cream
  • 3 teaspoons orange zest

Instructions

First: Preparing the Dough

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
  2. In a separate bowl, melt butter and add buttermilk. Warm the mixture slightly.
  3. Add the butter mixture to the dry ingredients, followed by the eggs.
  4. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth.
  5. Cover and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 2 hours until it doubles in size.

Second: Preparing the Orange Filling

  1. Roll out the dough into a large rectangle.
  2. Spread the softened butter evenly over the surface.
  3. Add the orange marmalade and spread it evenly.
  4. Sprinkle brown sugar on top and lightly press it into the dough.

Third: Rolling and Baking

  1. Starting from the long side, tightly roll the dough into a log.
  2. Using dental floss or a sharp knife, cut the log into 20 equal rolls.
  3. Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
  4. Cover and let them rise for another hour until puffy.
  5. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes until golden brown.

Fourth: Making the Orange Glaze

  1. In a bowl, whisk together orange juice, vanilla, and confectioners’ sugar.
  2. Add milk gradually until the glaze reaches a smooth consistency.
  3. Stir in orange zest for extra citrus flavor.
  4. Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls immediately after baking.

Notes

  • For a fun twist, try swapping out orange juice for lemon juice in the glaze for a tangy variation.
  • Store leftovers at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • To make ahead, refrigerate the shaped rolls overnight and bake fresh in the morning!
  • Try this Glazed Orange Rolls recipe today and let us know how it turns out! Enjoy a warm, sweet, and citrusy treat that’s perfect for any occasio

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 20 rolls
  • Calories: ~319 kcal
  • Sugar: ~28g
  • Sodium: ~93mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: ~7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: ~5g
  • Trans Fat: ~0g
  • Carbohydrates: ~50g
  • Fiber: ~1g
  • Protein: ~4g
  • Cholesterol: ~42mg

Keywords: Glazed Orange Rolls, Sweet Orange Rolls, Orange Cinnamon Rolls, Homemade Breakfast Rolls, Bakery-Style Orange Rolls, Citrus Pastry

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