Orange Rolls Recipe Citrus Glaze Sunset

I’ve always found immense joy in a warm, homemade treat, and I truly believe this easy orange rolls recipe Citrus Glaze Sunset will bring that joy right into your kitchen. Imagine the incredible aroma filling your home as these fluffy, tender rolls bake to a golden hue, topped with a vibrant Citrus Glaze Sunset.

This is perfect for those busy mornings when you want something special, for family brunches, or simply as a delightful treat kids and adults will adore. It’s a cherished family favorite, perfected over years, ensuring delightful results every time. Get ready for a simple, satisfying recipe that brings sunshine to your table, making ‘healthy eating’ a delicious experience.

Ingredient List with Smart Choices for Homemade Orange Rolls

Crafting the perfect orange rolls starts with fresh, quality ingredients, many of which are everyday pantry items. This orange rolls recipe Citrus Glaze Sunset shines brightest with fresh oranges.

• All-purpose flour: 4 cups (480g). Provides structure. For a ‘healthier’ option, a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend can be used.
• Granulated sugar: ½ cup (100g) for dough, ¼ cup (50g) for filling, ½ cup (100g) for glaze. Sweetens the rolls and activates yeast.
• Active dry yeast: 2 ¼ teaspoons (7g) or 1 packet. Helps the dough rise.
• Warm milk: 1 cup (240ml), around 105-115°F (40-46°C). Activates the yeast and adds moisture (dairy milk or almond milk for a ‘plant-based’ swap).
• Unsalted butter: ½ cup (113g) melted for dough, ¼ cup (57g) softened for filling. Adds richness and tenderness (vegan butter for ‘dairy-free’).
• Large eggs: 2, at room temperature. Binds the dough and adds richness.
• Fresh oranges: 2 medium, zest and juice (for both rolls and the stunning Citrus Glaze Sunset). Key for natural, bright flavor. Using fresh when in season is ideal; good quality orange juice concentrate can be used for the glaze in a pinch.
• Salt: ½ teaspoon. Balances flavors.
• Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon. Enhances overall sweetness.
• Powdered sugar: 1 ½ cups (180g) for glaze. Creates a smooth, sweet glaze.

Easy Step-by-Step Cooking Directions for Fluffy Orange Rolls

This easy orange rolls recipe Citrus Glaze Sunset is designed for ease, bringing ‘family-friendly’ cooking to your home. My favorite weeknight shortcut is preparing the dough the night before.

1. Activate Yeast (5-10 minutes): In a large bowl, combine warm milk, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let sit until foamy, showing the yeast is active and ready.
2. Mix Dough (10 minutes): In a separate bowl, whisk flour and salt. In the yeast mixture, add melted butter, remaining dough sugar, eggs, and 1 tablespoon of orange zest. Gradually add dry ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead on a lightly floured surface or with a stand mixer’s dough hook until smooth and elastic (it should spring back slightly when poked).
3. First Rise (60-90 minutes): Place dough in a greased bowl, turning once to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm, draft-free place until doubled in size. The dough will feel light and airy.
4. Prepare Filling (5 minutes): In a small bowl, mix ¼ cup softened butter, ¼ cup granulated sugar, and the remaining orange zest. You can add ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon for a warm, spiced variation.
5. Roll and Shape Orange Rolls (15-20 minutes): Gently punch down the risen dough. On a lightly floured surface, roll it into a 12×18-inch rectangle. Spread the filling evenly. Starting from a long side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Using a sharp knife or dental floss, slice into 12 even rolls, about 1 ½ inches thick. My kids always ask for these. Arrange rolls in a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Second Rise (30-45 minutes): Cover the dish and let the rolls rise again in a warm spot until visibly puffy. They will look plump and soft.
7. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18-22 minutes: Bake until the tops are golden brown and the rolls feel set to the touch. If the tops brown too quickly, loosely tent with foil.
8. Prepare Citrus Glaze Sunset (5 minutes): While rolls cool slightly, whisk together powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of fresh orange juice, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth. Add more juice a teaspoon at a time if too thick. For a ‘low-carb’ option, use a powdered erythritol blend.
9. Glaze and Serve Warm: Drizzle the bright, tangy Citrus Glaze Sunset generously over the warm orange rolls. Enjoy immediately for the best taste, perhaps as part of your ‘quick meals’ plan.

Ideal Uses and Serving Suggestions for Sweet Orange Rolls

These sweet orange rolls are perfect for making any morning special. Enjoy them for a relaxed weekend breakfast, a festive holiday brunch, or even as a delightful dessert after a family meal.

• Occasions:
  • Weekend breakfasts or holiday brunches
  • Special morning treats
  • Family desserts or potlucks
• Pairings:
  • Freshly brewed coffee or tea
  • Chilled milk or a vibrant fruit salad

Store leftover orange rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For best results, gently reheat in the microwave (15-30 seconds) or a warm oven (300°F for 5-7 minutes). You can also freeze unbaked or baked orange rolls for longer storage, up to 2-3 months, making them great for meal prep.

Everyday Benefits of Making Homemade Orange Rolls

Making this specific orange rolls recipe Citrus Glaze Sunset at home offers many advantages beyond just flavor. It’s a budget-friendly option compared to bakery purchases and lets you control ingredients for healthier choices, supporting healthy eating for families.

Homemade orange rolls are excellent for family-friendly healthy eating and support your budget meal prep goals by allowing you to freeze portions for later. They can even serve as nutritious snacks or a sweet finish to quick dinner ideas.

Tips, Variations, and Dietary Adjustments for Your Orange Rolls Recipe

Achieving perfect orange rolls comes down to a few key techniques. Ensure your milk is warm, not hot, when activating yeast, and knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic for the best texture. Always allow for a warm, draft-free spot for rising.

For flavor variations, consider adding a pinch of cardamom to the dough or experimenting with lemon or lime zest in the orange rolls Citrus Glaze Sunset for a different citrus note. For dietary needs, use erythritol or stevia in place of sugar for a low-carb version or plant-based milk and butter for a dairy-free treat. For kids, I sometimes reduce the zest for a milder flavor and add fun sprinkles to the glaze!

Frequently Asked Questions about Orange Rolls

Is this orange rolls recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, you can adapt this orange rolls recipe Citrus Glaze Sunset by using a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Make sure your chosen blend already contains xanthan gum to help provide the necessary structure and elasticity for fluffy rolls. You might need a little extra liquid, so add a tablespoon at a time.

How can I meal prep with these orange rolls for the week?

For easy meal prep, prepare the dough and shape the rolls as directed, then cover them tightly and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. You can also freeze formed unbaked rolls for up to 2-3 months; just thaw and rise before baking.

What’s the best way to store homemade orange rolls?

Store your homemade orange rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them fresh. For slightly longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days. To enjoy them warm again, a quick 15-30 second microwave session or a few minutes in a 300°F oven works wonders.

Can I use store-bought dough for orange rolls?

While a homemade orange rolls recipe offers superior flavor and texture, you can absolutely use canned biscuit dough for a quick shortcut. Simply flatten each biscuit, spread with the orange filling, roll, slice, and bake according to package directions. It’s a great option for busy mornings.

How do I get my orange rolls perfectly fluffy?

Perfect fluffiness depends on active yeast, proper kneading, and sufficient rising time. Ensure your yeast is fresh and the milk is warm, not hot. Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic, and always let it rise in a warm, draft-free place until doubled in size. I find giving them ample time for the second rise makes all the difference.

Can I add other flavors to the orange rolls Citrus Glaze Sunset?

Absolutely! The orange rolls Citrus Glaze Sunset is wonderfully versatile. Try adding a hint of vanilla extract for warmth, a tiny pinch of ground ginger for a subtle spice, or even a touch of almond extract for an intriguing aroma. These additions complement the bright citrus beautifully.

Are these orange rolls a healthy snack option?

With fresh orange zest and juice, this orange rolls recipe Citrus Glaze Sunset offers natural vitamins and fiber. To boost its healthy profile, reduce added sugar in the dough and glaze, or incorporate some whole wheat flour for added nutrients, creating a more wholesome option.

Conclusion

These homemade orange rolls truly bring a special warmth and deliciousness that store-bought versions simply can’t replicate, creating cherished family memories with every bite. Save this easy orange rolls recipe Citrus Glaze Sunset to your Pinterest board for future family breakfasts or quick meal prep inspiration!

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