Orange Rolls

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that fills your kitchen with sweet, citrusy aromas, these Orange Rolls are just the thing! Perfect for breakfast or a cozy weekend brunch, they bring happiness to any table. Imagine pulling warm rolls from the oven, their soft dough enveloping a zesty orange filling and topped with a creamy glaze. These rolls are not only delicious but also make for a lovely family gathering dish or a special holiday treat.

What I love most about this recipe is how it combines simple ingredients into something truly special. Whether you’re celebrating Easter or just want to brighten up a busy weeknight, these Orange Rolls will surely be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you’ll find making these rolls is simpler than you might think!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves soft, gooey rolls! They’re perfect for kids and adults alike.
• Make Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the dough in advance and bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of orange zest and cream cheese glaze creates an irresistible taste experience.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these Orange Rolls fit right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Orange Rolls are made with simple and wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Dough

• ¼ cup warm water
• 0.25 oz packet instant yeast
• 2 Tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 cup milk
• ¾ tsp salt
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 4 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 large egg (beaten)
• ⅓ cup potato flakes
• ⅓ cup HOT water
• 4 cups + all-purpose flour

For the Filling

• 3 Tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ tsp ground ginger
• 2 tsp orange zest
• ¼ cup freshly squeezed orange juice

For the Glaze

• 4 oz block-style cream cheese
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tsp orange zest
• 2 Tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor.
• Mix Up the Citrus: Try using lemon or grapefruit zest instead of orange for a different twist.
• Swirl in Cinnamon: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the filling for a warm spice note.
• Top with Fresh Fruit: Serve topped with fresh slices of orange or berries for an added pop of color and flavor.

How to Make Orange Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture

Start by dissolving the yeast and sugar in warm water. This step is crucial as it activates the yeast, helping our rolls rise beautifully. Stir gently and set aside while we work on the milk mixture.

Step 2: Create the Milk Mixture

Scald your milk either on the stove or in the microwave until it’s hot but not boiling. Add in salt, sugar, and butter, whisking until everything is dissolved. Let this mixture cool slightly; it will help create a tender dough.

Step 3: Make the Dough

Combine potato flakes with hot water until smooth yet thick. This ingredient adds moisture and fluffiness to our dough! Then beat your egg in a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook attachment. Add your yeast mixture and milk mixture along with those mashed potatoes. Gradually add flour until you have a sticky dough that moves well in the bowl. Knead this dough for about 5-10 minutes; this develops gluten which gives our rolls structure.

Step 4: Let It Rise

Transfer your sticky dough into a greased bowl and cover it with a towel. Let it rest for about an hour until it has doubled in size. This step is essential as it helps create those fluffy textures we love!

Step 5: Prepare the Orange Filling

While your dough rises, mix together sugar, ground ginger, and orange zest in a bowl so that those flavors meld beautifully. Once your dough has risen, add just enough fresh orange juice to form a thick clumpy mixture.

Step 6: Shape Your Rolls

Once risen, turn out your dough onto a floured surface. Pat it flat and roll it out into a rectangle about ½-inch thick. Spread softened butter evenly over this surface before adding that delightful orange-sugar mixture on top.

Step 7: Roll Them Up

Starting from one long edge, roll your dough tightly into a log shape while stretching it slightly as you go to keep that filling intact inside.

Step 8: Cut & Raise Again

Using floss or string (trust me on this!), cut your rolled-up dough into 12 pieces. Place them on greased baking sheets with ends facing inward—this helps keep them from unrolling during their second rise! Cover them lightly and let them puff up again for about 30-60 minutes.

Step 9: Bake Them Up

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake those gorgeous rolls for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (a thermometer should read 190 degrees when inserted).

Step 10: Whip Up Your Glaze

While they bake, prepare that creamy glaze by beating cream cheese until fluffy! Add powdered sugar, zest, and orange juice—blend until smooth.

Step 11: Serve Warm

Once baked to perfection, top those warm rolls generously with glaze while they’re still warm! Enjoy each bite as they melt in your mouth!

And there you have it—your very own batch of irresistible Orange Rolls! They’re sure to become a favorite at any gathering or cozy morning at home!

Pro Tips for Making Orange Rolls

Making Orange Rolls can be a delightful experience, and these tips will help ensure your rolls turn out perfectly every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh yeast and high-quality flour can significantly impact the flavor and texture of your rolls. Always check expiration dates on your yeast to achieve optimal rise.
• Knead the dough well: Proper kneading develops the gluten in the dough, resulting in a light and fluffy texture. Aim for about 5-10 minutes of kneading until the dough is smooth and elastic.
• Let the dough rise in a warm place: A warm environment helps the yeast activate, leading to better rising. If your kitchen is cool, consider placing the dough in an oven with just the light on or near a warm stovetop.
• Don’t rush the cooling process: Allowing your milk mixture to cool before adding it to the dough prevents cooking the egg and keeps your rolls tender. Patience pays off in baking!
• Experiment with fillings: While this recipe focuses on orange, feel free to mix things up by adding chocolate chips or nuts for an extra layer of flavor!

How to Serve Orange Rolls

Orange Rolls are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them perfect for any occasion. Here are some ideas for serving this delightful treat!

Garnishes

• Fresh mint leaves: A few sprigs of mint can add a pop of color and freshness to your plate.
• Additional orange zest: Sprinkling some extra orange zest on top of the glaze enhances both flavor and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad made with seasonal fruits complements the sweetness of Orange Rolls while adding a refreshing contrast.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a balanced side that pairs well with sweet rolls.
• Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide a savory balance to the sweetness of Orange Rolls, making them perfect for breakfast or brunch.
• Crispy Bacon Alternatives: Consider crispy chickpea snacks or turkey bacon alternatives for those who enjoy something savory alongside their sweet rolls.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll create a delightful breakfast or brunch spread that everyone will love! Enjoy every bite of your homemade Orange Rolls!

Make Ahead and Storage

Orange Rolls are not just a delightful treat for today; they’re also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make these sweet rolls in advance and enjoy them at your convenience. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat them:

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover Orange Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Allow the Orange Rolls to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just label the container with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, let the rolls thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• If you want a quick option, microwave individual rolls on a plate for about 15-20 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Orange Rolls.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour in Orange Rolls?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for part of the all-purpose flour. However, it may alter the texture slightly, making them denser.

How do I make Orange Rolls ahead of time?

You can prepare the dough and fill the rolls ahead of time. Assemble them as directed and place them in the refrigerator overnight before baking. Allow them to rise at room temperature before baking.

What is the best way to enjoy Orange Rolls?

The best way to enjoy Orange Rolls is fresh out of the oven while they’re still warm! The glaze melts into the rolls, creating a deliciously gooey treat.

Can I change the filling for my Orange Rolls?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different fillings like lemon zest or cinnamon sugar for a twist on this recipe.

Final Thoughts

These Orange Rolls are truly special — their fluffy texture and zesty flavor will brighten any morning! I hope you take joy in making these delightful treats and share them with family and friends. Whether it’s for breakfast or a festive gathering, these rolls are sure to become a favorite. Enjoy every bite!