Homemade Orange Sweet Rolls

There’s nothing quite like the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked Homemade Orange Sweet Rolls wafting through the house on a lazy Sunday morning. As the sun peeks through the kitchen window, I can hardly contain my excitement, for these rolls are not just any breakfast treat—they’re a cherished family recipe passed down through generations. Mixing together the rich scent of fresh oranges with the sweetness of dough brings back memories of cheerful mornings spent with loved ones, gathered around the table, sharing laughter and stories. Each roll is a delightful bite of nostalgia, offering a taste of comfort that is simply irresistible.

My journey to perfect these Homemade Orange Sweet Rolls involved plenty of experimentation, with flour flying and the kitchen filled with the sounds of mixing and kneading. I’ve learned that the secret lies not only in the ingredients but also in the love and care poured into every step of the process. When you take the time to let the dough rise and develop its flavors, the end result is a treat that’s well worth the wait. I invite you to join me in creating this beautiful, sweet indulgence that will surely brighten your day and lift your spirits.

Everything You Need for Homemade Orange Sweet Rolls

The ingredients for Homemade Orange Sweet Rolls are a harmonious blend that works together to create a treat that’s not only delicious but visually appealing. Each component contributes its unique flavor and texture, making the rolls a delightful experience from the first bite to the last. Let’s explore these key players:

• 3⅔ cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of the rolls, providing structure and chewiness.
• 2¼ teaspoons rapid rise dry yeast: This helps the dough rise quickly, ensuring light and fluffy rolls.
• ½ cup whole milk: Adds moisture and richness to the dough.
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter: Melted and cooled, it adds a delightful richness and flavor.
• ½ cup sour cream: Enhances the dough’s tenderness and imparts a subtle tang.
• ⅓ cup sugar: Sweetens the rolls, balancing the tanginess of the orange zest.
• 2 teaspoons Kosher salt: Elevates the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients and adds richness to the dough.
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter: For spreading over the dough, adding moisture and flavor.
• ⅔ cup sugar: For the filling, creating a sweet, satisfying taste.
• 2 tablespoons orange zest: Infuses the dough with fresh citrus flavor.
• 1 tablespoon orange zest: Adds more zing to the filling mixture.
• 2 cups confectioner’s sugar: Used for icing, providing sweetness and a beautiful finish.
• 4 tablespoons fresh orange juice: Brings the icing to life with a burst of citrus flavor.

How to Make Homemade Orange Sweet Rolls

The process of making Homemade Orange Sweet Rolls is a joyful and fulfilling experience. You’ll love the transformation of simple ingredients into delightful rolls. Let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions:

1. In a large bowl of a stand mixer, fitted with the dough attachment, mix together the flour and the yeast. This is the foundation of your rolls, so make sure they’re well combined.
2. With the mixer on medium speed, add the warmed milk and melted butter (that’s cooled slightly) to the flour/yeast mixture. The liquid ingredients will help to activate the yeast and create a smooth dough.
3. Next, add in the sour cream, sugar, salt, and egg. Beat at medium speed until the dough is smooth and elastic, approximately 5 minutes. It should pull away from the sides of the bowl but still stick to the bottom.
4. Spray a large bowl with nonstick cooking spray. This will prevent the dough from sticking as it rises.
5. Place the dough in the prepared bowl, turning to coat the top. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm draft-free place until it has doubled in size, approximately 1 to 2 hours.
6. While the dough is rising, spray a 9-inch round pan (2 inches in height) with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.
7. Once the dough has risen, lightly punch it down and on a lightly floured surface, roll it into a 14-inch by 10-inch rectangle. This is where the magic happens!
8. Spread the softened butter (6 tablespoons) evenly over the dough. This will create a rich flavor in every bite.
9. In a small bowl, stir together the sugar (⅔ cup) and zest (2 tablespoons) then sprinkle it over the butter. The combination of orange zest and sugar will add a delightful sweetness to the filling.
10. Starting on one long side, roll the dough into a log. Make sure to roll it tightly for perfectly shaped rolls.
11. Slice the log into 9 to 10 rolls. Place them in the prepared pan, ensuring they’re close but not touching.
12. Cover the rolls again and let them rise in a warm draft-free place until almost doubled in size, approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.
13. Preheat your oven to 350° F. The rolls will bake to a golden brown perfection.
14. Bake the rolls uncovered until golden brown, approximately 30 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they bake to prevent over-browning.
15. Let them cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 10 to 15 minutes. This will help them set and remain fluffy.
16. In a medium bowl, stir together the remaining 1 teaspoon zest, confectioners’ sugar, and orange juice until smooth. This will be the creamy icing that takes your rolls to the next level.
17. Drizzle and smear the icing over the warm rolls, allowing it to melt into the crevices. Enjoy the sweet smell that fills your kitchen!

Ways to Customize

There are countless ways to personalize your Homemade Orange Sweet Rolls. Here are some tips to inspire your creativity:

• Add spices: Consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the filling for an extra layer of flavor.
• Nutty addition: Mix in some chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for a crunchy texture contrast.
• Fruity twist: Incorporate dried fruits like cranberries or cherries into the filling for a fruity surprise.
• Glazing options: Experiment with different types of glazes, such as a cream cheese glaze, for a rich, creamy topping.
• Different citrus: Try substituting the orange with lemon or lime zest for a refreshing twist on flavor.

Best Served With

When it comes to serving your Homemade Orange Sweet Rolls, the possibilities are endless. Here are some ideas:

• Fresh fruit: Serve alongside a fruit salad for a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the rolls.
• Coffee or tea: Pair with your morning coffee or afternoon tea; the rolls enhance the experience beautifully.
• Light breakfast: These rolls can be a perfect addition to a light breakfast spread with yogurt and berries.
• Brunch events: Perfect for brunch gatherings where you’ll want to impress your guests with something homemade.
• Holiday celebrations: Great for festive occasions, bringing a sweet touch to family gatherings.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Homemade Orange Sweet Rolls are a delightful treat that brings people together, filling your home with warmth and the sweet aroma of fresh oranges. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy breakfast or a festive celebration. I encourage you to try making these rolls yourself; the joy of baking and sharing them with loved ones is truly rewarding!

Homemade Orange Sweet Rolls

The ultimate comfort food, Homemade Orange Sweet Rolls are sweet, fluffy, and infused with fresh orange flavor. These rolls are perfect for breakfast or brunch, and they’re guaranteed to impress your friends and family. Try them tonight and taste the love in every bite!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Breakfast

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

• 9" diameter cake pan

Ingredients

  

• 3⅔ cup all-purpose flour
• 2¼ teaspoon rapid rise dry yeast 1 package, active dry yeast will work, too
• ½ cup whole milk warmed to approx. 100° F
• 6 tablespoon unsalted butter melted, and then cooled to approx. 100° F
• ½ cup sour cream
• ⅓ cup sugar
• 2 teaspoon Kosher salt
• 1 large egg lightly beaten
• 6 tablespoon unsalted butter softened
• ⅔ cup sugar
• 2 tablespoon orange zest
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 2 cup confectioner's sugar aka powdered sugar
• 4 tablespoon fresh orange juice

Instructions

 

• In a large bowl of a stand mixer, fitted with the dough attachment, mix together the flour and the yeast. With the mixer on medium speed, add the warmed milk and melted butter (that's cooled slightly) to flour/yeast mixture. Next add in the sour cream, sugar, salt, and egg. Beat at medium speed until the dough is smooth and elastic, approximately 5 minutes. It should pull away from the sides of the bowl but still stick to the bottom.
• Spray a large bowl with nonstick cooking spray. Place the dough in the prepared bowl, turning to coat the top. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm draft-free place until it has doubled in size, approximately 1 to 2 hours.
• While the dough is rising, spray a 9-inch round pan (2 inches in height) with nonstick cooking spray and set aside. Once the dough has risen, lightly punch it down and on a lightly floured surface, roll it into a 14-inch by 10-inch rectangle.
• Spread the softened butter (6 tablespoons) evenly over the dough. In a small bowl, stir together the sugar (⅔ cup) and zest (2 tablespoons) then sprinkle it over the butter. Starting on one long side, roll the dough into a log. Make sure to roll it tightly for uniform rolls that bake evenly.
• Slice the log into 9 to 10 rolls. Place them in the prepared pan, ensuring they’re close but not touching. Cover the rolls again and let them rise in a warm draft-free place until almost doubled in size, approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.
• Preheat your oven to 350° F. Bake the rolls uncovered until golden brown, approximately 30 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they bake to prevent over-browning.
• Let them cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 10 to 15 minutes. In a medium bowl, stir together the remaining 1 teaspoon zest, confectioners' sugar, and orange juice until smooth. Drizzle and smear the icing over the warm rolls, allowing it to melt into the crevices.

Notes

• Tip 1: If using active dry yeast in place of rapid rise, simply allow the dough to rise a little longer.
• Tip 2: Don't add really hot milk and melted butter to the flour/yeast mixture; if you do, it will kill the yeast and the dough won't rise.
• Tip 3: The dough can be prepared the night before; simply cover with plastic wrap and place in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours.
• Tip 4: If you don't have a zester or micro-plane, you can rub the skin of the oranges against the small blades on the side of a box cutter.

Keyword Baked Orange Rolls, Citrus Sweet Rolls, Homemade Sweet Rolls, Orange Sweet Rolls

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Meet Sienna Blake

I’m Sienna, the detail-obsessed cook of the group! I specialize in baking and perfecting technical recipes so you never have to guess in the kitchen. I have tested this specific recipe multiple times adjusting the measurements and timing to guarantee it is absolutely foolproof and ready for your table. Trust the process, and I promise you’ll get amazing results!