Orange Rolls

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings a burst of sunshine to your breakfast table, look no further than these Orange Rolls! This recipe has been a cherished favorite in my family for years. The combination of the fluffy potato dough, the sweet orange filling, and that creamy glaze makes every bite feel like a warm hug. Whether you’re enjoying them on a leisurely weekend morning or serving them at a holiday gathering, these rolls are guaranteed to make everyone smile.

What I love most about Orange Rolls is their versatility. They’re perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting but easy to prepare, and they shine during special occasions like Easter brunch. Trust me; once you make these, they’ll become a staple in your home too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, you’ll be able to whip these up without any fuss.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will be drawn in by the sweet aroma and irresistible flavor.
• Perfect for sharing: Bake a batch and share them with friends or neighbors—everyone will appreciate this delicious gesture!
• Make ahead option: Prepare the dough the night before and bake in the morning for fresh rolls with minimal effort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Orange Rolls are made from simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely have on hand. Let’s gather everything we need to create this delicious treat!

For the Dough

• ¼ cup warm water
• 0.25 oz packet instant yeast
• 2 Tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 cup milk
• ¾ tsp salt
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 4 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 large egg (beaten)
• ⅓ cup potato flakes
• ⅓ cup HOT water
• 4 cups + all-purpose flour

For the Orange Filling

• 3 Tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ tsp ground ginger
• 2 tsp orange zest
• ¼ cup freshly squeezed orange juice

For the Glaze

• 4 oz block-style cream cheese
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tsp orange zest
• 2 Tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible, allowing you to customize it based on your preferences or what you have available. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Add some spice: Incorporate cinnamon into the filling for a warm twist.
• Go nutty: Sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts inside for added texture.
• Fruit-forward: Mix in finely chopped dried fruits such as cranberries or apricots for extra sweetness.
• Zesty switch-up: Try using lemon zest instead of orange for a different citrusy flavor.

How to Make Orange Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture

Start by dissolving the yeast and sugar in warm water. This step is crucial as it activates the yeast, which helps your rolls rise beautifully. Stir it gently and set it aside while you work on other mixtures.

Step 2: Create the Milk Mixture

Next, scald your milk either on the stove or in the microwave until it’s hot (but not boiling). Add salt, sugar, and butter to this mixture, whisking until everything dissolves completely. Let it cool down—this will help keep your dough from getting too hot when you add it to the yeast.

Step 3: Combine Potato Flakes with Hot Water

In a separate bowl, mix potato flakes with hot water until smooth but thick. This adds moisture and tenderness to our dough. If it feels too thick, don’t hesitate to add just a splash more water!

Step 4: Make the Dough

In your stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, beat an egg. Then add in your yeast mixture, milk mixture, and mashed potatoes. Gradually add flour until you have a sticky dough that moves well in the mixer. Knead it for about 5-10 minutes; this develops gluten which gives our rolls their lovely structure.

Step 5: Let It Rise

Transfer your sticky dough into a greased bowl and cover it with a towel. Let it rest for about an hour—this is where all that magic happens as it doubles in size!

Step 6: Prepare the Orange Filling

While your dough rises, combine sugar, ginger, and orange zest in a bowl so that those flavors can meld together beautifully. Once your dough has risen, slowly add enough orange juice to form a thick clumpy mixture resembling wet sand.

Step 7: Shape Your Dough

Once rested, turn out your dough onto a floured surface. Roll it into a rectangle about ½ inch thick—this will help create layers of flavor when we roll it up!

Step 8: Assemble Your Rolls

Spread softened butter evenly across the rolled-out dough, followed by your glorious orange-sugar mixture. Roll it tightly from one long edge to another while keeping tension on it so that filling stays inside.

Step 9: Cut and Rise Again

Using floss or string (yes—it works wonders!), cut your rolled dough into individual pieces and place them onto greased baking sheets with ends facing inward. Cover again with a damp towel and let them rise until puffy—about 30-60 minutes.

Step 10: Bake Away!

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and then bake those beautiful rolls for about 20-25 minutes until they reach 190 degrees internally or spring back when pressed lightly.

Step 11: Glaze Them Up!

While they’re baking away, whip up your glaze by beating cream cheese until fluffy before mixing in powdered sugar, zest, and orange juice until smooth. Drizzle this heavenly glaze over warm rolls right after they come out of the oven!

Now get ready to enjoy these wonderful Orange Rolls! Serve them warm for an unforgettable experience that makes any meal feel special.

Pro Tips for Making Orange Rolls

Making Orange Rolls can be a delightful experience, especially with a few helpful tips to ensure they turn out perfectly fluffy and flavorful.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh yeast and high-quality butter can significantly enhance the flavor and texture of your rolls. This ensures that your dough rises well and tastes delicious.
• Don’t rush the rising time: Allowing the dough to rise adequately is crucial for achieving a light and airy roll. Patience here pays off in the final product!
• Keep your workspace floured: A well-floured surface prevents sticking when you roll out the dough. It makes for easier handling and rolling, leading to a better shape in your finished rolls.
• Experiment with orange zest: The amount of orange zest can be adjusted according to your taste preference. More zest means more vibrant flavor, so don’t hesitate to add a bit extra if you’re feeling adventurous!
• Glaze while warm: Drizzling the glaze over warm rolls allows it to melt slightly into them, creating a deliciously gooey texture that enhances every bite.

How to Serve Orange Rolls

These Orange Rolls are not just a treat for the taste buds but also for the eyes! Presenting them beautifully will take your brunch or breakfast gathering to the next level.

Garnishes

• Fresh mint leaves: A few sprigs of mint add a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the rolls.
• Orange slices: Thinly sliced oranges on the side can enhance the citrus theme and provide an additional burst of freshness.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits complements the sweetness of Orange Rolls while providing a refreshing balance.
• Yogurt parfaits: Layered yogurt with granola and berries offers a creamy, tangy contrast that pairs beautifully with sweet rolls.
• Scrambled eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs add protein to your meal and their savory flavor contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the rolls.
• Breakfast potatoes: Crispy seasoned potatoes bring heartiness to your brunch spread, making it satisfying for everyone at the table.

Enjoy these tips and serving suggestions as you bake up a batch of these delightful Orange Rolls! They’re sure to impress family and friends alike!

Make Ahead and Storage

Orange Rolls are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious treats anytime. Whether you want to savor them fresh or save some for later, these rolls can be easily stored or frozen.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover Orange Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator where they will last up to a week.
• To maintain their softness, you can cover them with a light kitchen towel before sealing in the container.

Freezing

• Allow baked rolls to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label the bags with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw frozen Orange Rolls overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Warm the rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual rolls for about 20-30 seconds, but be careful not to overheat them.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Orange Rolls.

Can I make Orange Rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and let it rise the night before. Refrigerate it after kneading and shape it into rolls in the morning for fresh-baked goodness!

How do I store leftover Orange Rolls?

Store leftover Orange Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate them for up to a week.

What can I use instead of cream cheese in the glaze?

You can substitute cream cheese with vegan cream cheese or even a simple powdered sugar glaze mixed with orange juice if you’re looking for a lighter option.

Can I add nuts or raisins to my Orange Rolls?

Absolutely! Feel free to add chopped nuts or raisins into the orange filling mixture before rolling it up for added texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

These Orange Rolls are more than just a sweet treat; they’re a delightful experience packed with zesty flavors that brighten any meal. I hope you enjoy making them as much as I do! Share these warm rolls with family and friends, and watch their faces light up with joy. Happy baking!