Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of fresh-baked rolls wafting through your kitchen, and these Glazed Orange Sweet Rolls are sure to warm your heart and home. Imagine soft, fluffy rolls infused with the bright, zesty flavor of oranges, all topped with a sweet, creamy glaze that takes them over the top. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon treat, these rolls will certainly impress family and friends. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- For the filling:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- Zest of 1 orange
- For the glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- Zest of 1 orange
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Yield: 12 rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix the flour, granulated sugar, salt, and instant yeast together until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm milk, orange juice, melted butter, and eggs until smooth.
- Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until a cohesive dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.
- Once risen, punch down the dough gently and roll it out into a large rectangle, measuring approximately 16×24 inches.
- Spread the softened butter evenly over the rectangle, then sprinkle the brown sugar, cinnamon, and orange zest across the top.
- Starting from one long side, roll the rectangle tightly into a log shape.
- Using a sharp knife, cut the log into 12 equal pieces and arrange them in a greased baking dish, cut sides up.
- Cover the dish and let the rolls rise for another 30 minutes, allowing them to puff up.
- Once they have risen, bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and delightful.
- While the rolls are baking, prepare the glaze by whisking the powdered sugar, orange juice, melted butter, and zest until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- When the rolls are out of the oven, drizzle the glaze generously over them while they are still warm for that perfect finish.
Notes or Tips
For the best results, make sure your milk is warm but not hot, to avoid killing the yeast. You can also let the dough rise in a slightly warmed oven (turn on for a minute or two, then turn off) to create a cozy environment for rising. If you like a stronger orange flavor, feel free to add extra zest both in the filling and the glaze!
Cooking Techniques
Kneading the dough is crucial for developing gluten, which gives these rolls their wonderful texture. Be sure to knead until the dough is smooth and elastic. Another important step is allowing the dough to rise properly; don’t rush this process, as it makes a world of difference in the final product. Patience is key to achieving those fluffy, airy rolls!
FAQ
Can I make the dough ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and let it rise, then refrigerate it overnight. Just bring it to room temperature before rolling out.
Can these rolls be frozen? Yes, you can freeze the unbaked rolls after cutting them. Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag. To bake, simply let them thaw and rise before baking as instructed.
Conclusion
These Glazed Orange Sweet Rolls are more than just a treat—they’re a celebration of flavors and warmth, perfect for sharing with loved ones. Whether enjoyed at the breakfast table or as an afternoon snack with a cup of tea, each bite promises a joyful burst of citrus and sweetness. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to indulge in a baking adventure that will fill your home with joy and your belly with bliss!