Orange Sweet Rolls

These Orange Sweet Rolls are a delightful morning treat that fills your kitchen with the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked bread and citrus. Soft, fluffy dough is swirled with a luscious orange filling, making each bite a burst of bright flavor. Topped with a creamy orange glaze, these sweet rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a special dessert. They’re surprisingly easy to make, and the combination of sweet and tangy notes will have everyone reaching for seconds. Enjoy them warm with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful start to your day!

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup whole milk, warmed
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs

For the Orange Filling:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 tbsp grated orange zest
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

For the Orange Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tbsp fresh orange juice
• 1/2 tsp grated orange zest (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, granulated sugar, yeast, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix the warm milk, melted butter, and eggs. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until combined. Gradually add the remaining flour until a soft dough forms.
2. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
3. Prepare the Filling: In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, orange zest, and cinnamon until well combined.
4. Roll Out the Dough: After the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it into a rectangle about 1/4-inch thick. Spread the orange filling evenly over the dough.
5. Shape the Rolls: Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces and place them cut-side up in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Second Rise: Cover the rolls with a towel and let them rise again for about 30-40 minutes, or until puffed.
7. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Make the Glaze: While the rolls are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, orange juice, and optional orange zest until smooth.
9. Glaze and Serve: Once the rolls are out of the oven, drizzle the orange glaze over the warm rolls. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

These Orange Sweet Rolls are a heavenly combination of fluffy dough and zesty filling that will brighten any breakfast table. Enjoy their delightful sweetness with a refreshing twist of citrus!