Introduction
There’s something undeniably delightful about sweet rolls, and when those rolls are infused with the bright flavor of oranges, they become a true treat for the senses. These Glazed Orange Sweet Rolls are soft, tender, and bursting with citrus goodness. Imagine waking up to the warm aroma of freshly baked rolls wafting through your kitchen, their golden-brown tops glistening with a sweet glaze. Perfect for brunch, a special occasion, or simply as a cozy breakfast at home, these rolls will have everyone reaching for seconds!
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup orange zest
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 1 to 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice (for glaze)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Yield: 12 rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and salt. Mix well to ensure all the dry ingredients are evenly combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm milk, orange juice, orange zest, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. This will create a flavorful base for your dough.
- Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until the mixture starts to come together.
- Slowly add the remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic, a process that brings out the roll’s lovely texture.
- Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
- While the dough rises, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready for baking.
- Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick, inviting that bright orange scent to fill the air.
- Spread a generous layer of softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle with sugar and additional orange zest if you’re feeling extra zesty.
- Tightly roll the dough into a log, then slice it into equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss for clean edges.
- Arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and allow them to rise for another 30 minutes. The anticipation is half the fun!
- Once risen, bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until they’re golden brown and your kitchen smells divine.
- In the meantime, prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar with fresh orange juice in a small bowl until smooth.
- Once the rolls are baked and still warm, drizzle the glaze over the top and serve them up! Each bite is a heavenly burst of orange flavor.
Notes or Tips
- For an extra flavor punch, try adding a pinch of cardamom to the dough mix.
- These rolls can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days, though they are best enjoyed fresh!
- Feel free to adjust the amount of glaze according to your sweetness preference.
Cooking Techniques
Kneading the dough is crucial to developing the gluten, which gives the rolls their delightful texture. Ensure that your working surface is lightly floured to prevent sticking, and be gentle with the dough during the rolling process to keep all that lovely air in, which will make for light and airy rolls!
FAQ
Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and place it in the refrigerator overnight. Just bring it back to room temperature, allow it to rise, and continue with the recipe.
What can I use instead of orange juice?
Lemon juice can be a lovely alternative if you prefer a tangier flavor, though it will give a different final taste.
Conclusion
These Glazed Orange Sweet Rolls are more than just a dessert; they are a celebration of citrus and sweetness perfect for any occasion. Whether paired with a morning cup of coffee or enjoyed as a delightful afternoon treat, each roll promises to deliver joy and satisfaction. Enjoy making and sharing these irresistible rolls with your loved ones — every bite is sure to bring a smile to their faces!