Name: Orange Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 tbsp orange zest (from about 1 medium orange); 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed; 2 tbsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2-3 tbsp fresh orange juice; 1 tsp orange zest; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Print Recipe·4 from 10 reviews

If you’re searching for a bakery-worthy treat that brightens the morning with a zesty twist, this Orange Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is your new go-to delight. Imagine the softest, fluffiest dough rolled around a cinnamon-sugar swirl, infused with delicate orange zest that adds a refreshing citrus pop to every bite. The warm aroma filling your kitchen is like a comforting hug, and with each bite, you get that perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors dancing on your palate. These rolls aren’t just breakfast; they’re an experience you’ll want to share with everyone you love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Five raw cinnamon roll dough spirals rest on a white marbled tile surface dusted with flour, each with a clear dark brown cinnamon sugar swirl layer sitting on a light beige dough base. To the left bottom corner, there is a larger smooth dough piece with light orange zest speckles. On the top right, a metal grater with some fresh orange zest is placed next to a whole orange. Thin white string lies loosely near the dough pieces, all arranged in a visually balanced way. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These simple yet essential ingredients come together beautifully, creating the perfect texture, rich flavor, and lovely golden color that make this Orange Cinnamon Rolls Recipe unforgettable.

All-purpose flour: The foundation for a soft yet sturdy dough that holds all the delicious flavors together.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with browning during baking.
Active dry yeast: The magical leavening agent that makes the rolls light and fluffy.
Warm milk: Activates the yeast and adds moisture to the dough.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture throughout the dough and filling.
Eggs: Strengthen the dough and contribute to the tender crumb.
Orange zest: Bursts of citrus flavor that lift the traditional cinnamon roll into a fresh, vibrant treat.
Cinnamon: The warm spice that gives these rolls their classic comforting flavor.
Brown sugar: Caramel notes in the filling for an irresistible gooey swirl.
Powdered sugar: For a luscious glaze that adds sweetness and a hint of creaminess.
Orange juice: Used in the glaze to tie the citrus theme together perfectly.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing sweetness and richness.

How to Make Orange Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by activating your yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar, letting it foam up nicely to ensure your rolls will rise perfectly. Then, combine the activated yeast with the flour, sugar, melted butter, eggs, orange zest, and a pinch of salt. Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic — this process is key for that tender, fluffy texture you want. Cover your dough and let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size, which usually takes about an hour.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

While the dough is rising, mix together cinnamon, brown sugar, and softened butter. This simple blend comes alive with the sweet and spicy notes we all love in cinnamon rolls. Remember to really spread the butter evenly across the dough later to get a gooey, melt-in-your-mouth swirl in every bite.

Step 3: Roll and Fill

Once your dough has doubled, gently roll it out into a large rectangle on a floured surface. Spread the cinnamon-sugar butter mixture evenly across the dough, making sure those flavors are spread from edge to edge. Then, carefully roll the dough into a log, sealing the edge well. Cut the log into 9 evenly sized rolls and place them snugly in a greased baking dish.

Step 4: Final Rise and Bake

Let the rolls rise again for about 30 minutes—this second rise ensures they’ll be extra light and fluffy. Preheat your oven while they rise, then bake the rolls until golden brown and irresistibly fragrant, usually around 25 to 30 minutes. The scent of cinnamon intertwined with orange zest will fill your kitchen and build anticipation for that first bite.

Step 5: Prepare the Orange Glaze

While the rolls cool slightly, whisk together powdered sugar and freshly squeezed orange juice to create a silky glaze. Drizzle this vibrant glaze over the warm rolls, letting it cascade down the sides, sealing in the moisture and adding a bright citrusy finish that’s the perfect touch to your Orange Cinnamon Rolls Recipe.

How to Serve Orange Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

A square white baking dish lined with parchment paper holds eight cinnamon rolls arranged in two rows of four. The cinnamon rolls have a golden-brown dough base with dark brown cinnamon swirls tightly coiled inside. A thick layer of creamy white icing is being spread unevenly over the top three rolls with a silver spoon resting on the dish. Around the dish, there are white plates with dried orange slices and a small white bowl filled with extra icing. A small white bowl with ground cinnamon and whole cinnamon sticks on a white marbled surface surround the baking dish, creating a warm, cozy atmosphere. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an extra wow factor, sprinkle some finely chopped candied orange peel or a handful of toasted pecans on top. These additions elevate the texture and add layers of flavor that complement the soft, gooey rolls beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pair your orange cinnamon rolls with a fresh fruit salad or a cup of rich coffee or tea. The fruity brightness and warm beverages balance the sweetness perfectly, making every bite a harmonious morning delight.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the rolls in a rustic wooden board lined with parchment paper for a cozy feel or arrange them in individual ramekins for an elegant touch. You can also top each roll with a small dollop of whipped cream infused with a hint of orange extract to impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, store your orange cinnamon rolls covered tightly in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This helps maintain their softness while keeping them fresh.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these rolls over a longer period, wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They freeze beautifully for up to three months, maintaining taste and texture.

Reheating

To revive that fresh-out-of-the-oven feel, warm the rolls gently in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 12 minutes or microwave them for about 20 seconds. Adding a few drops of water before reheating helps keep them moist and soft.

FAQs

Can I use orange extract instead of fresh orange zest?

While fresh orange zest delivers the brightest, most natural citrus flavor, using orange extract can be a convenient substitute. Just be careful to use a small amount, as extracts tend to be more concentrated and can overpower the other flavors if overused.

How do I know when the dough has risen enough?

The dough has risen enough when it has doubled in size and springs back slowly when gently poked with a finger. This indicates the yeast has activated properly and your rolls will be light and fluffy.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

You can absolutely veganize this Orange Cinnamon Rolls Recipe by swapping out the milk for a plant-based alternative, using vegan butter, and replacing eggs with flax eggs or applesauce. Expect slightly different texture but equally delicious results!

Is it necessary to do two rises?

Yes, the two rises are important for the fluffy texture. The first rise develops flavor and helps the dough expand, and the second final rise allows the shaped rolls to puff up, ensuring a soft, tender crumb.

Can I add nuts or dried fruit to the filling?

Definitely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or dried cranberries make fantastic additions to the cinnamon filling, providing delightful texture and complementary flavors that pair wonderfully with the orange and cinnamon.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Orange Cinnamon Rolls Recipe enough—whether you’re making a special weekend breakfast or just treating yourself, these rolls bring such a joyful burst of flavor and warmth. Once you try them, they’ll quickly become a beloved recipe you reach for time and again, guaranteed to brighten up any morning with their gorgeous aroma and irresistible taste.