If you have a soft spot for sweet, citrusy treats that simply melt in your mouth, you’re going to adore this Melt-in-Your-Mouth Orange Rolls with Creamy Frosting Recipe. Imagine fluffy, tender rolls infused with bright orange zest and juice, swirled with a subtle cinnamon kick, all topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting that brings every bite to a heavenly finish. These rolls are a celebration of fresh flavors and soft textures, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a special sweet snack that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Melt-in-Your-Mouth Orange Rolls with Creamy Frosting Recipe relies on a handful of simple but essential ingredients that work together like magic. Each one contributes significantly to the final taste, texture, and color—helping you create a treat that’s irresistibly fragrant and fluffy.
- Warm Water: Activates the yeast to give your rolls that perfect airy rise.
- Quick Rise Yeast: Ensures your dough grows beautifully and quickly, making the rolls soft and fluffy.
- Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and aids in fermentation; brown sugar can be swapped for a deeper flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure for your dough; adding gradually helps you get the perfect consistency.
- Melted Butter: Infuses richness and moisture into the dough for a tender crumb.
- Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
- Cinnamon: Optional but adds a comforting warmth to the rolls when included.
- Orange Zest: Gives a burst of fresh, aromatic citrus flavor that brightens each bite.
- Cream Cheese: The star of the frosting, delivering that creamy tang that perfectly offsets sweetness.
- Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting for a smooth finish.
- Corn Syrup: Adds shine and smoothness to the frosting; honey or agave can work too.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the creaminess with a subtle warm note—totally recommended.
- Fresh Orange Juice: The secret to keeping the frosting light, refreshing, and packed with flavor.
How to Make Melt-in-Your-Mouth Orange Rolls with Creamy Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Start by mixing warm water, the quick rise yeast, and 3 tablespoons of sugar in a stand mixer bowl or a large mixing bowl. This step is all about waking up the yeast until it becomes frothy and bubbly, which usually takes about 10 minutes. This frothiness ensures your dough will rise to fluffy perfection.
Step 2: Make the Dough
Once your yeast mixture is ready, add the remaining sugar, half of the flour (2 cups), melted butter, and salt. Mix everything well so the ingredients blend seamlessly. Then, slowly add the rest of the flour, bit by bit, until you have a soft dough that feels tacky but isn’t stuck to your hands. This gradual addition helps you control the texture for dough that’s just right.
Step 3: Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it tightly, and let it rise for 2 to 3 hours at room temperature. If you want to save some time or bake the next day, you can let it rise overnight in the refrigerator. Either way, the dough will double in size, becoming springy and ready to roll.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
While your dough is taking a well-deserved rest, mix together the sugar, orange zest, and cinnamon in a small bowl. This fragrant blend will add a delightful citrus-spiced layer inside every roll.
Step 5: Roll and Fill the Dough
Lightly flour your countertop and roll out the dough into a large rectangle. Spread melted butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle your prepared orange-sugar mixture on top. The butter helps the filling stick and also keeps the rolls moist and flavorful.
Step 6: Shape and Slice Rolls
Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough up tightly to form a log. Use a sharp knife to slice the log into 1.5-inch thick rolls. Arrange these rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure to leave space for them to expand.
Step 7: Final Rise
Cover your rolls loosely with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise again for about an hour. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This second rise lets the rolls become incredibly light and soft.
Step 8: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pop the rolls into your preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, until they turn a gorgeous golden brown. The smell filling your kitchen at this point is absolutely irresistible!
Step 9: Make the Creamy Frosting
While the rolls bake, whip together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, corn syrup, vanilla extract, orange juice, and a touch of orange zest. This frosting is beyond creamy, with a refreshing citrus zing that complements the rolls perfectly.
Step 10: Frost and Serve Warm
Spread the luscious frosting over the warm rolls the moment they come out of the oven, letting it melt into every nook and cranny. Serve immediately for the best experience of the Melt-in-Your-Mouth Orange Rolls with Creamy Frosting Recipe.
How to Serve Melt-in-Your-Mouth Orange Rolls with Creamy Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of finely chopped candied orange peel or a dusting of extra orange zest on top of the frosting for an elegant, fresh look and a pop of zesty aroma. Toasted chopped nuts like pecans can add a lovely crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft rolls.
Side Dishes
These rolls pair wonderfully with a hot, freshly brewed cup of coffee or tea for a lovely morning treat. If serving for brunch, consider alongside fresh fruit salad or creamy yogurt to balance the sweetness and keep things light.
Creative Ways to Present
Try pulling these rolls apart family-style on a rustic wooden board to create a warm, communal atmosphere. Or, for a festive touch, drizzle extra orange glaze in a zigzag pattern and place small edible flowers around the platter for gifting or special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To retain their fluffy goodness, avoid refrigerating unless necessary, as it tends to dry out the bread.
Freezing
You can freeze the unbaked rolls after shaping by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap then foil. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge, let rise once more, and bake as usual. This makes it easier to enjoy fresh rolls any time.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the rolls in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 to 15 minutes or until heated through. For a quick option, microwave individually for about 20 seconds, then add a fresh spread of frosting to revive that creamy goodness.
FAQs
Can I make these rolls dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap the melted butter for a plant-based oil and use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for the frosting. The rolls will still be wonderfully soft and flavorful with those simple substitutions.
What’s the best way to get fresh orange zest?
Use a microplane grater to gently zest the outer peel of oranges, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath. Fresh zest packs the brightest citrus flavor which really makes these rolls stand out.
Can I prepare the frosting ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the frosting a day ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge and give it a good stir before spreading on warm rolls to restore that creamy texture.
Is it okay to omit the cinnamon?
Definitely. If you prefer a pure citrus flavor, just leave out the cinnamon in the filling. The orange zest and juice provide plenty of brightness on their own.
How do I know when the rolls are fully baked?
Baked rolls should be a beautiful golden brown all over and feel springy when gently poked. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean, indicating they are perfectly cooked inside.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the Melt-in-Your-Mouth Orange Rolls with Creamy Frosting Recipe that makes it a memorable addition to any baking repertoire. I encourage you to try it soon and experience the joy of fresh, aromatic orange flavors paired with soft, tender dough and dreamy frosting. Whether for a cozy family breakfast or a cheerful gathering with friends, these rolls bring that happy, homemade feeling everyone will love.
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Melt-in-Your-Mouth Orange Rolls with Creamy Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Melt-in-Your-Mouth Orange Rolls are soft and fluffy, bursting with fresh citrus flavor and a hint of cinnamon, topped with a luscious creamy orange frosting. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, these homemade rolls combine classic sweet rolls with bright, fresh orange zest and juice for a delightful twist that will wow your family and guests.
Ingredients
Dough
- 1 cup Warm Water (Room temperature is ideal)
- 2 teaspoons Quick Rise Yeast (Must be fresh)
- 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar (Can use brown sugar for richer flavor)
- 4 cups All-Purpose Flour (Adjust based on dough consistency)
- 1/4 cup Melted Butter (Can replace with oil for dairy-free)
- 1 teaspoon Salt (Essential for flavor balance)
Filling
- 1 tablespoon Cinnamon (Omit for citrus-only flavor)
- 2 tablespoons Orange Zest (Fresh zest is best)
- 3 tablespoons Granulated Sugar
- Additional melted butter for spreading (about 2-3 tablespoons)
Creamy Frosting
- 8 ounces Cream Cheese (Use mascarpone for different flavor)
- 2 cups Powdered Sugar (Reduce for less sweetness)
- 1/4 cup Fresh Orange Juice (Freshly squeezed is best)
- 2 tablespoons Corn Syrup (Honey or agave can be substitutes)
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Optional but recommended)
- 2 tablespoons Orange Zest (Fresh zest is best)
- 2 tablespoons Butter, softened
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: Combine warm water, yeast, and 3 tablespoons of sugar in a stand mixer bowl. Let it sit until frothy, about 10 minutes, to ensure the yeast is active and ready.
- Mix Dough: Add the remaining sugar, 2 cups of flour, melted butter, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until well combined to start forming the dough.
- Knead Dough: Gradually add the remaining flour until a soft, tacky dough forms. Knead well using the stand mixer with a dough hook or by hand until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 2-3 hours until doubled in size. Alternatively, you can refrigerate overnight for a slower rise.
- Prepare Filling: In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar, fresh orange zest, and cinnamon. This mixture will provide a fragrant, zesty layer inside the rolls.
- Roll Out Dough: On a floured surface, roll the dough into a large rectangle approximately 12×18 inches. Spread melted butter evenly over the dough to help the filling stick.
- Add Filling: Sprinkle the orange-cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the buttered dough, ensuring it covers the surface completely for consistent flavor.
- Shape Rolls: Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut the log into 1.5-inch thick slices using a sharp knife or dental floss.
- Second Rise: Place the rolls cut side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving some space between them for expansion. Cover and let them rise again for 1 hour until puffy.
- Preheat Oven: While rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for perfect baking temperature.
- Bake Rolls: Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown on top, being careful not to overbake to keep them soft.
- Prepare Frosting: As the rolls bake, mix the cream cheese, softened butter, orange juice, orange zest, vanilla extract, corn syrup, and powdered sugar in a bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Frost and Serve: Once rolls are warm from the oven, spread the creamy orange frosting over the tops generously. Serve immediately and enjoy your fresh, melt-in-your-mouth orange rolls.
Notes
- You can substitute brown sugar in the dough for a richer flavor.
- For a dairy-free version, replace butter with oil and use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for the frosting.
- Omit cinnamon if you prefer a pure citrus flavor.
- The dough can be refrigerated overnight for convenience and better flavor development.
- If rolls are not eaten within a day or two, store them in an airtight container and reheat gently before serving.
- Freshly squeezed orange juice and zest provide the best flavor, but bottled zest and juice can be used in a pinch.
