When paired with the bright, zesty scent of fresh oranges, the smell of warm, freshly baked sweet buns is the most comfortable thing in the world.  An excellent variation on the classic cinnamon roll, these orange sweet rolls have a zesty, refreshing flavor that complements the sweet, fluffy dough.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
  

For the Filling:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• Zest of 2 large oranges
• 2 tbsp fresh orange juice
  

For the Icing:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tbsp fresh orange juice
• 1 tsp orange zest
  

Directions

1. In a large dish, dissolve the yeast in the warm milk and leave for 5 minutes to make the dough. Add salt, sugar, butter, and eggs. Mix well. Until the dough comes together and is manageable but still little sticky, add flour a bit at a time. Knead for 5 to 7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.

2. First Rise: Place the dough in an oiled basin, cover, and let rise in a warm location for 1 to 1½ hours, or until doubled in size.
   
3. Create the Filling: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, sugar, orange juice, and orange zest until the mixture is smooth and spreadable. 

4. Form the Rolls: Roll out the dough into a 16 × 12 inch rectangle, evenly cover the surface with the filler, and roll tightly from the long edge, cutting into 12 equal pieces.

5. Second Rise: Place the rolls in an oiled baking dish. Cover and let rise for another 30 to 45 minutes.

6. To bake, preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F). Bake the rolls for 25 to 30 minutes, or until golden brown.

7. To prepare the icing, whisk the orange juice, zest, cream cheese, and powdered sugar together until smooth. Over hot rolls, pour.

Nutrients (per serving, approximate)

• Calories: 320
• Carbs: 45g
• Fat: 12g
• Protein: 5g
• Sugar: 20g
  

The Allure of Orange in Baking

Orange gives baked goods a brightening boost. Its natural sweetness and zesty tang combine to create a palate-refreshing balance. These rolls seem light and vivid because the citrus tones elevate the palate, unlike heavy or overly sugary pastries.

Making the Dough: The Key to Fluffiness

The key to fluffy, soft rolls is to knead the dough correctly and give it enough time to rise. The dough gets its pillowy texture from the air bubbles that are produced as the yeast feeds on the sugar. While butter and eggs enhance the dough, warm milk aids in the yeast’s activation.

Preparing the Filling: Sweet and Citrus Infusion

The orange really comes through in the filling. The citrus scent is enhanced by fresh zest, and a little orange juice adds taste and moisture. As the rolls bake, the sugar caramelizes, forming a rich, gooey core.

Shaping the Rolls: Achieving Perfect Swirls

Uniform rolls with lovely swirls are guaranteed when the dough is tightly rolled and cut uniformly. It is easier to keep clean cuts without squishing the dough when you use dental floss or a sharp knife.

Baking the Rolls: A Golden Perfection

The rolls are guaranteed to cook thoroughly without drying out when baked at the proper temperature. The insides should still be soft, but the tops should develop a beautiful golden brown. Watch the final five minutes to avoid overbaking.

Making the Icing: Creamy and Tangy

The rolls go very well with the cream cheese frosting. The orange zest in the icing adds to the entire flavor, and the creaminess counterbalances the citrus zing. It melts a little in each crack as you drizzle it over warm rolls.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Orange sweet rolls are a wonderful weekend treat or are ideal for brunches and holidays. They are popular at springtime get-togethers because of their vibrant flavor, but they are also reassuring throughout the winter.

Conclusion

Enjoy every warm, gooey bite of these Orange Sweet Rolls, which are a delightful blend of sweet, citrusy, and creamy flavors wrapped in soft, fluffy dough. They are perfect for serving at a special event or just to make your morning more cheerful.