Name: Easy Orange Sweet Rolls Recipe
Prep time: 1 h 40 min
Cook time: 28 min
Total time: 2 h 18 min
Yield: 10
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2¾ cups all-purpose flour; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp salt; 1 pkg Red Star Platinum Superior Baking Yeast; ¾ cup whole milk; 3 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 large egg; 2 tbsp orange juice; 1 tbsp orange zest; For Filling:; 3 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 tbsp ground cinnamon; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 1 tbsp orange zest; From Orange Icing:; 1 cup confectioners’ sugar; 3 tbsp orange juice

Indulge in the sweet zestiness of these easy orange sweet rolls, perfect for a cozy breakfast or a delightful brunch. These rolls combine the tangy flavor of orange zest and orange juice with a rich, buttery dough, making them an instant favorite.

Photos of Easy Orange Sweet Rolls Recipe

Most of the ingredients in this recipe are common pantry staples. However, you may need to purchase orange juice and orange zest if you don't have fresh oranges on hand. Additionally, make sure you have red star platinum superior baking yeast, which ensures a fluffy texture.

Ingredients for Easy Orange Sweet Rolls Recipe

All-purpose flour: Provides the structure and base for the dough.

Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the dough and filling.

Salt: Enhances the flavor of the rolls.

Red star platinum superior baking yeast: Ensures the dough rises properly and gives a fluffy texture.

Whole milk: Adds richness and moisture to the dough.

Unsalted butter: Adds flavor and helps create a tender crumb.

Egg: Provides structure and richness to the dough.

Orange juice: Adds a tangy citrus flavor to the rolls and icing.

Orange zest: Infuses the dough and filling with a bright, citrusy aroma.

Ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice to the filling.

Confectioners’ sugar: Used for making the smooth, sweet orange icing.

One reader, Auguste Byrnes says:

These easy orange sweet rolls are a delightful treat! The citrus flavor is perfectly balanced, and the rolls are soft and fluffy. The orange icing adds a wonderful finishing touch. Perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack!

Auguste Byrnes

Techniques Required for Making Easy Orange Sweet Rolls

How to knead dough: Kneading involves pressing and folding the dough with your hands to develop gluten, which gives the dough its structure and elasticity. How to roll dough: Rolling dough requires using a rolling pin to flatten the dough into a specific shape and thickness, in this case, a 14×8-inch rectangle. How to roll up dough: Rolling up dough means tightly rolling the flattened dough into a log shape, which helps create the layers in the sweet rolls. How to cut dough: Cutting dough involves slicing the rolled-up dough log into even pieces, ensuring uniform size for even baking. How to allow dough to rise: Allowing dough to rise means letting it rest in a warm, draft-free environment so the yeast can ferment and the dough can expand, usually doubling in size.

How To Make Easy Orange Sweet Rolls

Oranges add a tangy-sweet flavor and fragrance to these sweet rolls. They’re soft and fluffy rolls for a more unique and tasteful dessert!

Preparation: 1 hour 40 minutes

Cooking: 28 minutes

Rest Time: 10 minutes

Total: 2 hours 18 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2¾cupsall-purpose flour,spoon and leveled
¼cupgranulated sugar
1tspsalt
1pkgRed Star Platinum Superior Baking Yeast,(2¼ tsp)
¾cupwhole milk
3tbspunsalted butter
1large egg,room temperature
2tbsporange juice
1tbsporange zest

For Filling:

3tbspunsalted butter,softened to room temperature
1tbspground cinnamon
¼cupgranulated sugar
1tbsporange zest,from the orange

From Orange Icing:

1cupconfectioners’ sugar
3tbsporange juice

Instructions

In a large bowl, toss the flour, the sugar, salt, and yeast together. Set aside.
Heat the milk and butter together in the microwave until the butter is melted and the mixture is warm to the touch. Stir in the orange juice, orange zest, and egg.
Combine the butter mixture and the flour mixture and stir until it forms a soft dough. *
On a lightly floured surface, knead the dough for 1 minute. Place in a lightly greased bowl and let rest for about 10 minutes.
After 10 minutes, roll the dough out in a 14×8-inch rectangle. Spread the softened butter on top.
Mix together the cinnamon, sugar, and orange zest. Sprinkle it all over the dough.
Roll up the dough tightly. Cut into 10 to 12 even rolls, then arrange in a lightly greased 9-inch round cake pan or pie dish.
Loosely cover the rolls with aluminum foil or plastic wrap, then allow to rise in a warm, draft-free environment for 60 to 90 minutes.
After the rolls have doubled in size, preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
Bake for 25 to 28 minutes until lightly browned. Cover the rolls with aluminum foil after 15 minutes.

Orange Icing:

Whisk the confectioners’ sugar and the remaining orange juice together until smooth. Drizzle or spread over the warm rolls.
Serve, and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

* Poke the dough with a finger—it should bounce back. If not, stir in more flour 1 Tablespoon at a time.
Cover leftover frosted or unfrosted rolls tightly and store for up to 3 days at room temperature or up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Nutrition

Calories: 308.18kcal
Fat: 8.62g
Saturated Fat: 4.97g
Trans Fat: 0.28g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.31g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.54g
Carbohydrates: 52.34g
Fiber: 2.45g
Sugar: 23.43g
Protein: 6.39g
Cholesterol: 38.75mg
Sodium: 236.09mg
Calcium: 42.71mg
Potassium: 126.15mg
Iron: 1.87mg
Vitamin A: 75.84µg
Vitamin C: 5.55mg

Technique Tip for Perfect Easy Orange Sweet Rolls

When kneading the dough, use the heel of your hand to push it away from you, then fold it back over itself and give it a quarter turn. This helps develop the gluten, giving your rolls a better texture. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour to your hands and the surface, but be careful not to add too much, as it can make the dough tough.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Easy Orange Sweet Rolls

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure out the flour, sugar, and other dry ingredients the night before to save time in the morning.

Use a stand mixer: Let a stand mixer do the heavy lifting when combining the dough ingredients, saving you from manual mixing and kneading.

Preheat the oven early: Start preheating your oven while the rolls are rising to ensure it's ready to go when you need it.

Make the icing ahead: Prepare the orange icing while the rolls are baking so you can drizzle it on immediately when they come out of the oven.

Substitute Ingredients For Easy Orange Sweet Rolls Recipe

all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and more fiber, though it may make the rolls denser.
granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and adds a slight caramel flavor.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a more complex flavor profile.
red star platinum superior baking yeast - Substitute with active dry yeast: Active dry yeast is a common alternative, though it may require proofing in warm water before use.
whole milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that works well in baking.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil is a plant-based fat that can be used in place of butter, though it will add a slight coconut flavor.
large egg - Substitute with flax egg: A flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) is a vegan alternative that helps bind ingredients.
orange juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice can provide a similar acidity and citrus flavor, though it will be more tart.
orange zest - Substitute with lemon zest: Lemon zest can provide a similar citrus aroma and flavor.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with ground nutmeg: Ground nutmeg offers a warm, spicy flavor that complements sweet rolls.
confectioners’ sugar - Substitute with powdered coconut sugar: Powdered coconut sugar is a less refined option that can be used in icing.

How to Present Easy Orange Sweet Rolls

Serve smaller portion sizes: Cut the orange sweet rolls into bite-sized pieces to create an elegant and refined presentation. This allows the flavors to be savored without overwhelming the palate.
Use decoration: Garnish each piece with a delicate twist of orange zest and a light dusting of confectioners’ sugar to add visual appeal and a hint of extra flavor.
Plate with precision: Arrange the bite-sized rolls in a circular pattern on a pristine white plate, leaving space between each piece to highlight their individual beauty.
Add a sauce drizzle: Use a fine-tipped squeeze bottle to artistically drizzle the orange icing over the rolls, creating an intricate pattern that enhances the visual presentation.
Incorporate fresh elements: Place a few fresh orange segments and a sprig of mint on the plate to add a burst of color and freshness, complementing the flavors of the rolls.
Highlight textures: Ensure the rolls have a golden-brown exterior by baking them to perfection. The contrast between the crispy outside and the soft, fluffy inside will be visually and texturally appealing.
Use elegant serving ware: Present the dish on high-quality, minimalist serving ware to allow the orange sweet rolls to be the star of the plate without any distractions.
Create height: Stack a few rolls slightly on top of each other to add dimension and height to the presentation, making the dish more dynamic and visually interesting.
Add a touch of luxury: Finish with a light sprinkle of edible gold leaf or a few edible flowers to elevate the dish to a Michelin-star level of sophistication.

Essential Tools for Making Orange Sweet Rolls

Large mixing bowl: To combine the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast together.
Microwave: To heat the milk and butter until the butter is melted and the mixture is warm.
Measuring cups: To measure the flour, milk, and other ingredients accurately.
Measuring spoons: To measure the yeast, salt, cinnamon, and other small quantity ingredients.
Whisk: To stir the orange juice, orange zest, and egg into the milk and butter mixture.
Wooden spoon: To combine the butter mixture with the flour mixture and form a soft dough.
Lightly floured surface: To knead the dough for 1 minute.
Rolling pin: To roll the dough out into a 14×8-inch rectangle.
Small bowl: To mix together the cinnamon, sugar, and orange zest for the filling.
9-inch round cake pan or pie dish: To arrange the cut rolls for baking.
Aluminum foil or plastic wrap: To loosely cover the rolls while they rise.
Oven: To bake the rolls at 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
Cooling rack: To cool the rolls after baking.
Small whisk: To whisk the confectioners’ sugar and orange juice together for the icing.
Spatula: To spread or drizzle the orange icing over the warm rolls.

How To Store and Freeze Easy Orange Sweet Rolls

Allow the orange sweet rolls to cool completely before storing or freezing.
To store: place the rolls in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap. They will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
To freeze: wrap the rolls tightly with plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Place them in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
To reheat: if frozen, allow the rolls to thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Warm them in the microwave for 30-45 seconds or in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes until heated through.
For best results, reheat the orange sweet rolls before serving to restore their soft, fluffy texture and warm, gooey filling.
If the icing has hardened during storage, you can refresh it by mixing in a small amount of orange juice or milk until it reaches the desired consistency.

How To Reheat Leftover Orange Sweet Rolls

Reheat in the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover orange sweet rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover the rolls loosely with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through and the icing has softened. This method will help restore the rolls' original texture and flavor.
Microwave reheating: If you're short on time, you can reheat the sweet rolls in the microwave. Place a single roll on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high for 15-20 seconds. If reheating multiple rolls, arrange them in a circle on the plate and microwave for 30-45 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make the rolls tough and rubbery.
Slow cooker method: For a unique twist, place the leftover orange rolls in a slow cooker. Arrange them in a single layer and cover with the lid. Set the slow cooker to low heat and let the rolls warm up for 30-45 minutes. This method will create a soft, gooey texture that's perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch.
Toaster oven reheating: If you have a toaster oven, you can easily reheat one or two sweet rolls at a time. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the rolls on a small baking sheet or directly on the rack. Heat for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Stovetop steaming: For a quick and easy method, steam the leftover orange rolls on the stovetop. Fill a large pot with about an inch of water and bring it to a simmer. Place the rolls in a steamer basket or on a heatproof plate and set it inside the pot. Cover the pot with a lid and steam for 5-7 minutes, or until the rolls are soft and heated through.

Random Fact About Easy Orange Sweet Rolls

A random fact about this recipe is that the combination of orange zest and orange juice in both the dough and the icing gives these sweet rolls a vibrant citrus flavor, making them a refreshing twist on traditional cinnamon rolls.

Is Making Easy Orange Sweet Rolls at Home Cost-Effective?

The easy orange sweet rolls recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The primary ingredients like all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and whole milk are staples in most kitchens, reducing the need for extra purchases. Specialty items like orange zest and confectioners’ sugar are relatively inexpensive. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$12 USD. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Are Easy Orange Sweet Rolls Healthy or Unhealthy?

This orange sweet rolls recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The recipe contains a significant amount of refined flour, sugar, and butter, which are high in calories and low in essential nutrients. The use of whole milk and egg also adds to the calorie and fat content. However, the inclusion of orange juice and zest does provide some vitamin C and a small amount of fiber.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Substitute at least half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to increase the fiber content and provide more complex carbohydrates
Reduce the amount of sugar in the dough and the filling, or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup
Replace some of the butter with healthier alternatives like Greek yogurt or mashed avocado to lower the saturated fat content
Use low-fat milk instead of whole milk to reduce the overall fat content
Add more orange zest to the dough and filling to boost the citrus flavor without increasing the sugar content
Experiment with adding other healthy ingredients like finely grated carrots, chopped nuts, or chia seeds to increase the nutritional value

By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious version of these orange sweet rolls while still maintaining their delightful taste and texture. Remember, enjoying treats in moderation is key to a healthy and sustainable diet.

Editor's Thoughts on This Easy Orange Sweet Rolls Recipe

This recipe for orange sweet rolls is a delightful fusion of citrus and classic pastry. The use of fresh orange juice and zest in both the dough and filling adds a vibrant, refreshing flavor. The instructions are clear and straightforward, making it accessible even for novice bakers. The final touch of orange icing elevates the rolls, providing a perfect balance of sweetness and tang. Overall, it's a well-crafted recipe that promises a delicious and aromatic treat, ideal for breakfast or brunch.

Enhance Your Easy Orange Sweet Rolls Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Fresh Fruit Salad: Complement the citrusy delight of the orange sweet rolls with a vibrant fresh fruit salad. Imagine a medley of berries, kiwi, and pineapple tossed in a light honey and lime dressing. The refreshing burst of flavors will balance the sweetness of the rolls perfectly.

Herbed Scrambled Eggs: Add a savory touch to your breakfast spread with herbed scrambled eggs. Fluffy eggs infused with fresh chives, parsley, and a hint of dill will provide a delightful contrast to the sweet, citrusy rolls. A sprinkle of feta cheese can elevate the dish even further.

Maple-Glazed Bacon: For those who love a sweet and savory combo, maple-glazed bacon is the way to go. Crispy bacon strips coated in a rich maple syrup glaze will add a smoky, sweet crunch that pairs wonderfully with the orange-infused rolls.

Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layered Greek yogurt, granola, and fresh berries create a delightful Greek yogurt parfait. The creamy texture and slight tanginess of the yogurt, combined with the crunch of granola and the sweetness of berries, make for a balanced and satisfying side.

Spiced Chai Latte: Warm up with a comforting spiced chai latte. The aromatic blend of cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves in a creamy milk base will enhance the citrus notes of the sweet rolls, creating a harmonious flavor experience.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Easy Orange Sweet Rolls

Cinnamon Apple Rolls: Imagine the delightful aroma of cinnamon and apples wafting through your kitchen. These rolls are perfect for a cozy morning or an afternoon treat. The sweet and slightly tart apple filling pairs beautifully with the soft, fluffy dough, making each bite a taste of autumn bliss.

Lemon Blueberry Sweet Rolls: Brighten your day with these zesty and fruity rolls. The combination of lemon zest and blueberries creates a refreshing and tangy flavor profile. Topped with a lemon glaze, these rolls are a burst of sunshine in every bite.

Maple Pecan Sticky Buns: Indulge in the rich, caramelized goodness of maple syrup and pecans. These sticky buns are a decadent treat, perfect for a special breakfast or brunch. The gooey maple glaze and crunchy pecans make these buns irresistible.

Raspberry Cream Cheese Rolls: These rolls are a delightful blend of tart raspberries and creamy cheese. The filling is both sweet and tangy, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Topped with a simple glaze, these rolls are a luxurious treat for any occasion.

Pumpkin Spice Rolls: Embrace the flavors of fall with these spiced rolls. The pumpkin puree and spices create a warm and comforting flavor. Drizzled with a cream cheese glaze, these rolls are perfect for a cozy autumn morning.

Suggested Appetizers and Main Courses to Complement Easy Orange Sweet Rolls

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start any meal. Imagine plump mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The mushroom caps are baked until golden and bubbly, creating a perfect bite-sized treat. The creamy filling contrasts beautifully with the earthy flavor of the mushrooms, making them an irresistible appetizer. Serve them warm, and watch them disappear in no time.

Bruschetta: Bruschetta is a classic Italian starter that never fails to impress. Picture crispy baguette slices topped with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The combination of the crunchy bread and the fresh, tangy topping is a match made in culinary heaven. This appetizer is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a perfect choice for any gathering.

Main Courses:

Lemon Herb Chicken: Lemon Herb Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the zesty flavor of lemon with aromatic herbs. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme, then grilled or baked to perfection. The result is a juicy, flavorful chicken that pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, offering a burst of freshness and a touch of elegance to your meal.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Stuffed Bell Peppers are a colorful and nutritious main course that can be customized to suit any palate. The bell peppers are hollowed out and filled with a savory mixture of ground meat (such as beef or turkey), rice, tomatoes, and spices. They are then baked until the peppers are tender and the filling is cooked through. This dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor and nutrients. Serve with a side of quinoa or mashed potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal.

Why trust this Easy Orange Sweet Rolls Recipe:

This recipe for orange sweet rolls is a must-try because it combines the perfect balance of citrus zest and sweetness. The use of whole milk and unsalted butter ensures a rich and tender dough, while the orange icing adds a delightful finish. With easy-to-follow steps and common ingredients, even novice bakers can achieve bakery-quality results. Trust in the simplicity and deliciousness of this recipe to impress your family and friends.

Have you tried this Easy Orange Sweet Rolls Recipe? Share your experience and any tweaks you made in the Baking and Desserts forum!

FAQ:

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast. Just skip the step where you let the dough rest for 10 minutes and proceed directly to rolling it out.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and let it rise, then refrigerate it overnight. Just bring it to room temperature before rolling it out and baking.

Can I use a different type of milk?

Yes, you can use any type of milk you prefer, such as almond milk or skim milk. Just keep in mind that whole milk adds a bit more richness to the dough.

How do I store leftover rolls?

Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months.

Can I add nuts or raisins to the filling?

Definitely! Feel free to add chopped nuts, raisins, or even dried cranberries to the filling for extra texture and flavor. Just sprinkle them over the cinnamon-sugar mixture before rolling up the dough.