Homemade Glazed Orange Rolls

The kitchen filled with the most incredible citrus perfume while these were baking, my roommate actually wandered in asking what bakery had magically opened in our apartment.

I made these for a friends birthday brunch last spring and watched three people immediately ask for the recipe before even finishing their first roll.

Ingredients

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for that tender, fluffy texture we are after
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Just enough to help the yeast work its magic and add subtle sweetness
• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast: One standard packet gives reliable rise every single time
• 1/2 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and brings all the flavors forward
• 3/4 cup whole milk warmed to 110°F: Warm milk activates the yeast and creates a richer dough
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted: Adds tenderness and that homemade comfort we love
• 2 large eggs room temperature: Structure and richness for the softest texture
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: A classic pairing that deepens the orange flavor
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened: The base for our luscious orange filling
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Creates that sweet citrus swirl we all dream about
• Zest of 2 large oranges: Fresh zest gives the most vibrant orange essence possible
• 2 tbsp fresh orange juice: Adds just the right amount of brightness to the filling
• 1 cup powdered sugar sifted: Makes the silkiest glaze that drips beautifully
• 2 to 3 tbsp fresh orange juice: Adjust to get that perfect pourable consistency
• 1/2 tsp orange zest: Little flecks of citrus make the glaze extra special

Instructions

Mix the dry foundation:

Combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt in a large bowl, whisking them together until evenly distributed throughout

Prepare the wet mixture:

Whisk warm milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla in a separate bowl until completely smooth and blended

Bring the dough together:

Pour wet ingredients into dry and mix until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms and pulls away from the sides

Knead until smooth:

Work the dough on a floured surface for 8 to 10 minutes until it feels silky and elastic, or let your stand mixer do the work for 6 to 7 minutes

Let it rise:

Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a warm towel, and let it proof in a cozy spot for 1 hour until doubled in size

Whisk up the filling:

Beat softened butter with sugar, orange zest, and juice until you have a spreadable, fragrant orange mixture

Roll it out:

On a floured surface, roll dough into a 16 by 10 inch rectangle, keeping the thickness as even as possible

Spread the orange goodness:

Layer that orange filling all over the dough, going right to the edges so every bite gets that citrus swirl

Roll it tight:

Starting from a long side, roll the dough into a tight log and pinch the seam firmly to seal everything inside

Slice and arrange:

Cut into 12 equal rolls and place them in a greased 9 by 13 inch baking dish, leaving a little room to expand

Second rise:

Cover the dish and let the rolls rest for 30 to 40 minutes until they look puffy and have risen beautifully

Preheat and bake:

Heat your oven to 350°F and bake the rolls for 22 to 25 minutes until they turn a gorgeous golden brown

Make the glaze:

While rolls bake, whisk powdered sugar with orange juice and zest until smooth and drizzly

Finish with glaze:

Let the rolls cool for just 10 minutes, then pour that orange glaze all over them while they are still warm

Save

My grandmother tasted these and immediately declared they put her famous cinnamon buns to shame, which might be the highest compliment she has ever given me.

Making Ahead

You can assemble these rolls the night before, cover the dish tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.

Orange Zest Secrets

Grate the zest gently, avoiding the white pith underneath which can add bitterness. Microplanes give the finest texture but a regular zester works perfectly too.

Serving Ideas

These orange rolls make any morning feel special and festive.

• Pair with a strong cup of coffee or Earl Grey tea to cut through the sweetness
• Add a dollop of crème fraîche for a tangy contrast against the glaze
• Serve alongside fresh berries to balance the richness with something light

Save

There is something about pulling warm, glazed rolls from the oven that makes a regular Saturday morning feel like a celebration.

Recipe FAQs

→ How long do the rolls need to rise?

The dough requires an initial rise of about 1 hour in a warm place until doubled in size. After shaping and placing in the baking dish, they need a second rise of 30-40 minutes until puffy before baking.

→ Can I prepare these rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the rolls the night before. After placing them in the baking dish, cover and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes while the oven preheats, then bake as directed.

→ What's the best way to cut the rolls evenly?

Use unflavored dental floss or a very sharp knife. Slide the floss under the rolled dough, cross the ends over the top, and pull through cleanly. This method prevents squishing the delicate swirls.

→ How do I know when the rolls are done baking?

The rolls are finished when they're golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. They should sound hollow when tapped lightly. Bake time is typically 22-25 minutes at 350°F.

→ Can I freeze these orange rolls?

Absolutely! Once completely cooled, wrap individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave for 30-45 seconds or in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes until warmed through.

→ What if I don't have fresh oranges?

You can substitute orange extract for the zest—use about 1/2 teaspoon mixed into the filling and glaze. For the juice, bottled 100% orange juice works, though fresh provides the brightest flavor.