Homemade Orange Sweet Rolls Recipe

Fresh, warm, and infused with citrusy flavor, orange sweet rolls are the perfect treat to elevate your breakfast or brunch.

Whether you're a home baker looking to impress your family or a breakfast lover searching for your next favorite indulgence, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between tangy and sweet. Follow along as we guide you through every step to create these soft, gooey rolls that are downright irresistible.

Why You'll Love These Orange Sweet Rolls

There's something magical about biting into a warm, freshly baked roll with sticky orange glaze melting in your mouth. Here's why this recipe is worth saving for your next baking adventure:

• They're soft, fluffy, and bursting with bright citrus flavor.
• Perfect for cozy mornings, special occasions, or even as a midday snack.
• Made with simple ingredients you likely already have at home.

Let's get started!

Ingredients for Homemade Orange Sweet Rolls

First, gather your ingredients. Everything you need is easy to find and baking-friendly.

For the Dough

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 3 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 packet active dry yeast (about 2 ¼ tsp)
• ½ tsp salt
• ¾ cup warm milk (not hot, around 110°F)
• 3 tbsp butter, melted
• 1 large egg

For the Filling

• ⅓ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp orange zest (from about 2 oranges)

For the Orange Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp fresh orange juice
• 1 tsp orange zest
• 1 tbsp milk (optional, for desired consistency)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast

Combine warm milk, a pinch of sugar, and yeast in a bowl. Stir gently and let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy. If the mixture doesn’t foam, your yeast might be expired, so double-check before proceeding.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.

3. Mix the Dough

Add melted butter, egg, and the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients. Stir until the dough starts to come together.

4. Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 6–8 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook for this step.

5. First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and allow it to rise in a warm place for about 1–1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. Mix softened butter, sugar, and orange zest in a small bowl until it becomes a spreadable paste. The orange zest will add fresh bursts of citrus flavor to every bite.

Step 3: Assemble the Sweet Rolls

1. Roll Out the Dough

Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down to release air. Roll it out on a floured surface into a 12x15-inch rectangle.

2. Spread the Filling

Evenly spread the orange filling over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border along the edges.

3. Roll and Slice

Starting from the long edge, tightly roll up the dough like a jelly roll. Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut 12 evenly sized slices.

4. Second Rise

Arrange the rolls in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, leaving a little space between each. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.

Step 4: Bake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and fragrant.

Step 5: Make the Orange Glaze

While the rolls cool slightly, whisk together powdered sugar, fresh orange juice, and orange zest. Drizzle the glaze over the warm sweet rolls. You can adjust the consistency by adding a splash of milk, if needed.

Tips for Perfect Orange Sweet Rolls

• Fresh Ingredients are key! Using fresh orange zest and juice enhances the flavor profile.
• Room Temperature Butter for the filling spreads more evenly, ensuring each roll bursts with flavor.
• Patience with Rising yields soft, airy rolls, so resist the urge to rush the process.
• Don’t Overbake! Keep a close eye on the rolls in the oven to prevent drying them out.

Why Orange Sweet Rolls Are Perfect for Any Occasion

These homemade orange rolls are ideal for so many moments:

• Weekend Brunches: Pair them with a fresh cup of coffee or orange juice.
• Family Gatherings: They’re guaranteed to impress everyone at the table.
• Gifting: A tray of warm sweet rolls makes a thoughtful and delicious gift.

Make Breakfast Glow with These Citrus Treats

Whether you're an experienced baker or just starting your baking journey, this recipe will make you fall in love with the magic of homemade baked goods. There’s nothing quite like pulling apart a warm, fluffy roll drizzled with sugary orange glaze.

Why not turn your kitchen into a bakery this weekend? Try out this recipe and experience the joy of making something truly special.

If this recipe brightened your breakfast table, share it with your fellow baking enthusiasts! We’d also love to see your creations. Tag us on social media with your orange roll photos using #BakingWith