Soft Orange Rolls Glazed

These orange rolls combine a fluffy, buttery dough with a bright citrus filling and a sweet glaze that brings a fresh twist to classic sweet rolls. They make a perfect treat for breakfast or an afternoon snack when you want something comforting but not overly rich. The balance of buttery sweetness with zesty orange flavor has become a favorite in my family, especially on weekend mornings when everyone gathers around the table.

I remember baking these for the first time on a chilly Sunday and the whole house smelled like a citrus bakery which instantly lifted the mood.

Ingredients

• Warm water: activates the yeast make sure it’s warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast
• Active dry yeast: key for the dough to rise and become fluffy
• Granulated sugar: feeds the yeast and sweetens the dough and filling
• Large eggs: enrich the dough for softness and structure
• Butter melted for dough and softened for filling: gives creaminess and flavor use unsalted for better control over saltiness
• Salt: balances sweetness and enhances flavor
• All-purpose flour: the base of the dough fresh flour gives better texture
• Orange zest from fresh large oranges: the star ingredient that gives that natural citrus punch
• Powdered sugar: for the glaze to add sweetness and glossy finish
• Freshly squeezed orange juice: brightens the glaze and ties the citrus flavor together

Instructions

Make the Dough:

In a small bowl, combine warm water yeast and sugar. Let it rest for about five minutes until it becomes foamy on top which means the yeast is active

Mix Dough Ingredients:

In a large bowl fitted with a dough hook add eggs melted butter salt flour and the yeast mixture. Knead on medium speed for three minutes until the dough begins to come together

First Rest:

Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel and let the dough rest for ten minutes this allows the gluten to relax

Second Knead and Rest:

Knead the dough again for three minutes then rest it for another ten minutes repeating this step helps develop a soft and elastic dough

Final Knead and Rest:

Give the dough one last knead for three minutes and then rest it for ten final minutes before shaping

Divide and Roll Out:

Divide the dough into three equal balls. Lightly flour your countertop and roll each ball out into a fifteen-inch by eight-inch rectangle

Prepare the Filling:

Mix the softened butter granulated sugar and zest of two oranges until well combined. This aromatic filling will be spread evenly over the dough

Roll and Cut:

Roll up each rectangle lengthwise into a tight tube like cinnamon rolls. Use a sharp serrated knife to cut the rolls into one and a half inch sections

Arrange in Tin and Rise:

Place each roll into a greased muffin tin. Cover lightly with greased plastic wrap and allow to rise for thirty minutes until puffy

Bake the Rolls:

Preheat your oven to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit. Bake the rolls for about ten to twelve minutes or until they turn golden brown

Make the Glaze and Drizzle:

Whisk together powdered sugar orange zest and freshly squeezed orange juice until the glaze is smooth. Drizzle it over the warm rolls for a sweet citrus finish

Using fresh oranges for zest and juice is essential to getting the full citrus aroma and taste The orange zest is my favorite part because it transforms a simple sweet roll into something vibrant and memorable. I often think of chilly mornings when the citrus scent fills the kitchen and makes everyone eager for a warm bite.

Storage Tips

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to keep them soft To freshen up day-old rolls gently warm them in a microwave or oven to regain that fresh-baked feel They freeze well too wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer bag for up to three months thaw overnight before reheating

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have active dry yeast you can substitute instant yeast but reduce the rising time slightly For a dairy-free version use coconut oil instead of butter both in the dough and filling All-purpose flour can be swapped for bread flour if you want a chewier texture though the rolls may be less tender Orange zest can be replaced with lemon zest for a different but still bright flavor profile

Serving Suggestions

Serve these rolls warm with a pat of butter for a simple indulgence They pair wonderfully with a cup of black tea or freshly brewed coffee to balance the citrus sweetness Try them as a brunch item alongside fresh fruit salad and yogurt for a complete meal

This delightful orange roll recipe is perfect for sharing at any gathering and brings a bright twist to classic baking. Enjoy the warm citrus aroma and the soft tender crumb in every bite.

FAQs about Recipes

→ How do I activate the yeast for the dough?

Combine warm water, active dry yeast, and sugar in a small bowl. Let it rest for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.

→ What is the best way to roll out the dough?

Divide the dough into three balls and roll each into a 15x8 inch rectangle on a lightly floured surface for even layering of the filling.

→ How should I prepare the orange filling?

Mix softened butter with granulated sugar and the zest of two oranges, then spread evenly across the rolled-out dough for a flavorful citrus layer.

→ What temperature and time are best for baking these rolls?

Bake the shaped rolls in a greased muffin tin at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes until golden brown on top.

→ How is the orange glaze made and applied?

Whisk powdered sugar, fresh orange zest, and orange juice until smooth, then drizzle over warm rolls for a glossy, flavorful finish.

→ Can these rolls be stored for later consumption?

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container for up to three days or freeze to maintain freshness longer.