Best Orange Rolls Recipe

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Delicious homemade orange rolls with a sweet glaze

Homemade Orange Rolls Recipe

Looking for a delightful treat that can brighten your morning? These homemade orange rolls are the perfect solution! Soft, fluffy, and bursting with citrus flavor, these rolls are elevated with a creamy icing that will make your taste buds dance. Whether it’s a weekend breakfast or a special occasion, everyone will love these sweet rolls!

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup milk (240 ml)
  • 1/4 cup granulated white sugar (50 g)
  • 1 tablespoon active dry yeast (9 g)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (6 g)
  • 1/2 cup butter, softened (113 g)
  • 1 egg
  • 2 teaspoons orange zest (from one orange)
  • 1/4 cup fresh orange juice (from one orange, 60 ml)
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for rolling out, 480 g)
  • 1 cup sugar (200 g)
  • 2 teaspoons zest (from one orange)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (1 g)
  • 1/2 cup butter (113 g)
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (30 g)
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened (113 g)
  • 4 oz (1/2 stick) butter, softened (113 g)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (2 ml)
  • 2 tablespoons frozen orange juice concentrate (30 ml)
  • 2 cups powdered sugar (240 g)

Directions:

  1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk (between 100-110°F or 37-43°C), sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes or until foamy. If using instant yeast, simply mix all dough ingredients, making sure to keep yeast away from salt, as salt slows yeast growth.
  2. In a stand mixer (or a large bowl if mixing by hand), combine salt, butter, egg, orange zest, orange juice, and 4 cups of flour. Pour the foamy yeast mixture in and mix with the dough hook on low speed for 5-8 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. If mixing by hand, use a wooden spoon until it becomes difficult to mix, then knead by hand for 8-10 minutes.
  3. Add up to another 1/2 cup of flour to achieve a slightly sticky dough that pulls away from the bowl’s sides. Oil a large bowl, place the dough inside, and cover it with plastic wrap. Let it rise at room temperature for one hour or until it doubles in size.

For Filling:

  1. In a medium bowl, combine sugar, orange zest, and ground ginger. Mix the sugar and zest together for a minute or two so that the sugar takes on an orange hue, then stir in the flour. Set it aside.
  2. On a floured work surface, roll the dough into a rectangle approximately 24 inches long by 10-12 inches wide. Occasionally shape it with your hands to maintain the rectangle. Spread softened butter over the rolled-out dough, followed by the sugar mixture, spreading it evenly.
  3. Carefully roll the dough lengthwise into a long roll. Use a piece of clean string or dental floss; slide it under the roll, pick up both ends, cross them, and pull tight to cut the dough into 12 equal pieces. Place the rolls cut side down into an oiled 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) pan or large baking sheet, making sure not to crowd them.
  4. Cover with a dish towel, and let rise for 45 minutes to one hour until almost doubled in size. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes until light golden brown on top. Baking times may vary depending on the pan used. Allow cooling for 15-20 minutes before icing.

For the Icing:

  1. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese and butter, mixing until most lumps are gone; microwaving them for 10-20 seconds helps soften them. Stir in powdered sugar, vanilla, and orange juice concentrate until the mixture is smooth. You can add another 1-2 tablespoons of orange juice concentrate for a thinner glaze. Generously spoon the icing over the rolls to coat evenly. Serve warm for maximum deliciousness.

How to Serve Best Orange Rolls Recipe

For a delightful serving suggestion, serve these orange rolls warm with a cup of coffee or tea. They also pair beautifully with a fresh fruit salad or a side of crispy bacon for a delicious brunch experience. Enjoy the bright and zesty flavors that make these rolls a truly special treat!