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Homemade Glazed Orange Rolls

Homemade Glazed Orange Rolls

Warm, soft, and sweet Homemade Glazed Orange Rolls with fresh orange zest and a luscious citrus glaze. Quick and easy to prepare, these fluffy rolls offer a perfect balance of bright, zesty flavor and tender texture, making them ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough Ingredients

  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F/43°C)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon fresh orange zest (about 1 large orange)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Glaze Ingredients

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 3 tablespoons fresh orange juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Fillings and Variations

  • Cinnamon sugar (1/4 cup sugar mixed with 1 tablespoon cinnamon)
  • Toasted pecans or walnuts (1/2 cup chopped)
  • Sweetened cream cheese filling (4 oz cream cheese + 2 tablespoons sugar + 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, mixed)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: Warm the milk until lukewarm, then sprinkle yeast and a pinch of sugar over it. Let it proof for 5 minutes until frothy. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and orange zest. Add melted butter, egg, and the activated yeast mixture. Mix until combined and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  2. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 60 minutes or until doubled in size.
  3. Roll Out and Fill: Punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a 12×16 inch rectangle. Brush with melted butter. If desired, sprinkle fillings such as cinnamon sugar, nuts, or cream cheese evenly on top. Roll the dough into a log and pinch the seam to seal.
  4. Slice and Bake: Cut the log into 12 equal pieces and place cut-side up in a greased baking pan. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), then bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
  5. Make and Apply the Orange Glaze: Whisk powdered sugar, fresh orange juice, and vanilla extract until smooth and glossy. Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls once slightly cooled and let it set for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated orange zest for maximum flavor.
  • The dough should be soft but not sticky; adjust with flour or milk as needed.
  • Allow dough to rise fully to ensure soft, fluffy rolls.
  • Brush dough with melted butter before rolling to add richness and help fillings adhere.
  • Glaze rolls while still warm for a beautifully melted finish.
  • Leftover rolls keep fresh for up to 2 days at room temperature in an airtight container.
  • Freeze baked rolls for up to 3 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
  • Reheat gently in microwave or oven and add extra glaze if desired.
  • Yeast is essential for fluffiness; baking powder can be used but results vary.
  • For an overnight prep, refrigerate dough after first rise, then shape and bake next day.

Nutrition

Keywords: orange rolls, glazed orange rolls, citrus breakfast rolls, orange zest rolls, homemade sweet rolls, orange glaze