Orange Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
If you adore the cozy, comforting aroma of cinnamon rolls but crave a bright, citrusy twist, this Orange Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is going to become your new breakfast obsession. The perfect balance of fluffy dough, warm cinnamon, and zesty orange flavor creates rolls that are irresistibly soft and bursting with fresh, fragrant notes. Topped with a luscious orange glaze, these rolls transform a classic treat into something delightfully vibrant yet beautifully familiar. Whether you’re baking for a special morning or simply elevating your weekend brunch, these rolls deliver joy in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, everyday ingredients is the secret to these extraordinary rolls. Each component plays a vital role in building the soft texture, rich flavor, and that irresistible citrus twang that sets this recipe apart.
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that provides structure and tenderness to the dough.
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast: Helps the dough rise beautifully and become light and airy.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds slight sweetness that balances the tangy orange zest.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and keeps the dough perfectly seasoned.
- 1/2 cup whole milk: Keeps the dough moist, tender, and flavorful.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Adds richness and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 1/4 cup water: Activates the yeast and hydrates the dough.
- 1 large egg: Helps bind ingredients and enriches the dough’s texture.
- Zest of 1 large orange: Infuses fresh citrus aroma and lively taste throughout the dough.
- For the filling – 1/3 cup unsalted butter (softened): The smooth base for the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness that complements the cinnamon.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Brings that classic warmth and spice essential to any cinnamon roll.
- Zest of 1 orange (for filling): Boosts citrus flavor inside the rolls for an extra zing.
- For the orange glaze – 1 cup powdered sugar: Creates a sweet, smooth frosting to finish the rolls.
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice: Brings brightness and juice to the glaze, perfectly rounding out the sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon orange zest (for glaze): Amplifies the citrus fragrance on top.
- 1–2 tablespoons milk: Adjusts the glaze to the perfect drizzling consistency.
How to Make Orange Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by combining 1 1/2 cups of flour with the yeast, granulated sugar, salt, and orange zest in a large bowl. Warm the milk, butter, and water gently on the stove until they reach a warm, cozy temperature—too hot can kill the yeast, so just warm enough to feel comfortable to the touch. Pour the liquid mixture into the flour and beat until the ingredients mix into a smooth batter. Then, beat in the egg to enrich the dough. Gradually stir in the rest of the flour, half a cup at a time, until you have a soft dough. Knead this dough on a floured surface for about 5 to 7 minutes until it’s silky and elastic, a tell-tale sign it’s ready to rise. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and set it somewhere warm for around an hour until it doubles in size. This patient rising fills the dough with airy bubbles, creating the perfect texture for your rolls.
Step 2: Shape and Fill the Rolls
Once your dough has puffed beautifully, punch it down gently to release the air, then roll it out into a 14 by 9-inch rectangle. Spread the softened butter evenly across the surface, which acts like glue for the flavorful filling. Mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, and orange zest together in a small bowl until combined, then sprinkle this sugary spice blend all over the buttered dough. Feel free to inhale the comforting aroma here—it’s one of the best moments! Roll the dough up tightly from the long edge, making sure to keep it snug for neat slices. Cut the log into 12 evenly sized rolls, and place them snuggly into a greased 9 by 13-inch baking dish. Let these rolls rest for 30 minutes under a cover, giving them just enough time to puff up again before baking.
Step 3: Bake and Glaze
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slide the rolls into the warm oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until they’re an inviting golden brown on top. While they’re baking away, whisk together the powdered sugar, fresh orange juice, orange zest, and milk to form a smooth, pourable glaze. This bright, glossy glaze is the finishing touch that complements the soft cinnamon rolls perfectly. Drizzle it generously over the warm rolls right after they come out of the oven so it melts slowly into every crevice, enhancing each bite with a sweet, citrusy shimmer.
How to Serve Orange Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
Adding simple garnishes can elevate your Orange Cinnamon Rolls Recipe even more. Sprinkle a few extra bits of fresh orange zest on top for a burst of color and a fresh citrus punch. A handful of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts can add a delightful crunch that complements the rolls’ softness beautifully. For a touch of creaminess, consider dolloping a bit of whipped cream or cream cheese frosting on the side.
Side Dishes
These rolls pair wonderfully with an array of sides that balance or enhance their sweetness. Fresh fruit such as berries or sliced melons adds a refreshing contrast. A cup of strong coffee or a lightly brewed tea complements the spicy orange-cinnamon flavors perfectly, creating a cozy and complete breakfast experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the baking dish! Serve individual rolls on small dessert plates with a drizzle of extra glaze and a small sprig of fresh mint for an elegant touch. Alternatively, place the rolls in a rustic basket lined with a clean kitchen towel for a charming brunch centerpiece that invites family and friends to dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover rolls (though they rarely stick around long), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them soft and prevents drying out.
Freezing
Orange Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is freezer-friendly! Freeze the unbaked rolled dough after cutting into slices by wrapping tightly with plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, let them rise to room temperature, then bake as usual. You can also freeze fully baked rolls wrapped in foil and place inside a freezer bag. Thaw and reheat for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.
Reheating
To reheat, warm rolls in a microwave for about 20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes until warmed through. Add a little extra glaze if desired to revive their freshly baked charm.
FAQs
Can I use orange juice instead of zest in the dough?
While orange juice adds moisture and flavor, orange zest provides concentrated oils that deliver the signature bright aroma and taste essential to the rolls. It’s best to use both zest and juice for maximum flavor.
Is it possible to make these rolls vegan?
Yes! You can substitute the milk with a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, use vegan butter, and replace the egg with a flax or chia egg. The dough may require slight adjustments in rising time.
Can I add nuts or dried fruit to the filling?
Absolutely. Adding chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts or mixing in dried cranberries or raisins can add texture and extra layers of flavor that complement the orange and cinnamon beautifully.
How do I prevent the rolls from turning out dry?
Make sure not to overbake the rolls and keep an eye on the oven. Also, brushing the dough with butter before adding the filling and drizzling the glaze generously over warm rolls helps keep them moist and tender.
Can I bake the rolls in a different pan size?
Yes, but baking time might vary. Using a smaller pan will result in thicker rolls that need a few extra minutes to bake, while a larger pan will yield thinner rolls and require less baking time. Adjust accordingly and watch for a golden brown finish.
Final Thoughts
This Orange Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is truly a joyful twist on a beloved classic, bursting with fresh citrus brightness and cozy warmth. Whether you’re baking for a lazy weekend breakfast or a special occasion, these rolls are bound to impress and delight everyone at your table. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to fill your home with the irresistible scent of sunshine and spice. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become one of your favorites to bake again and again!
Print
Orange Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 12 rolls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these homemade Orange Cinnamon Rolls, perfectly soft and fluffy with a zesty orange flavor infused in the dough and filling. Topped with a sweet orange glaze, they make an irresistible breakfast or dessert treat bursting with warm cinnamon and citrus notes.
Ingredients
Dough
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 large egg
- Zest of 1 large orange
Filling
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- Zest of 1 orange
Orange Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- 1/2 teaspoon orange zest
- 1–2 tablespoons milk (as needed for consistency)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of the flour with active dry yeast, granulated sugar, salt, and orange zest. In a saucepan, gently warm the milk, unsalted butter, and water until warm but not hot. Add this liquid mixture to the flour mixture and beat with a mixer until smooth. Beat in the egg. Gradually add the remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, until a soft dough forms.
- Knead and Rise: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Roll and Fill: Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a 14×9-inch rectangle on a lightly floured surface. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and orange zest, then sprinkle this filling mixture evenly over the buttered dough.
- Form the Rolls: Starting from the long edge, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal rolls using a sharp knife or dental floss. Arrange the rolls cut-side up in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and allow them to rise again for 30 minutes until puffy.
- Bake the Rolls: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cinnamon rolls for 20–25 minutes or until they turn golden brown on top.
- Prepare the Glaze: While the rolls bake, whisk together powdered sugar, fresh orange juice, orange zest, and milk until smooth and pourable. Adjust milk quantity to achieve desired consistency.
- Glaze and Serve: Once baked, drizzle the warm rolls generously with the orange glaze. Serve immediately to enjoy the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can prepare the rolls the night before and let them rise overnight in the refrigerator; bring them to room temperature before baking.
- For added texture, incorporate chopped nuts or dried cranberries into the filling.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
