Introduction to the Best Glazed Orange Sweet Rolls
When it comes to breakfast indulgences, nothing quite compares to the best glazed orange sweet rolls. These delightful treats are not only incredibly soft and fluffy but also filled with a luscious buttery orange filling that bursts with flavor in every bite. What’s more, they’re topped with a simple, yet irresistible orange glaze that adds the perfect finishing touch. Your mornings deserve a touch of sweetness, and these rolls provide just that.
What Makes These Orange Rolls So Special?
So, what truly sets these rolls apart? First of all, it’s the unique combination of orange marmalade and a rich, buttery filling that makes them a standout. The balance of sweetness and citrus takes your taste buds on a delightful adventure. Plus, they can be prepared the night before—perfect for busy individuals who still want to enjoy a homemade breakfast.
Made with simple, high-quality ingredients like unsalted butter and fresh orange zest, each roll is a testament to the beauty of comfort food. Whether you’re serving them at a brunch gathering or keeping them all to yourself, these rolls bring joy and satisfaction with every bite. Trust us, once you try making the best glazed orange sweet rolls, they’ll become a staple in your breakfast rotation. For some fun variations, consider mixing in chocolate chips or nuts for a delightful twist!
For more tips, check out King Arthur Baking for expert advice on perfecting your dough.

Ingredients for the Best Glazed Orange Sweet Rolls
Creating the best glazed orange sweet rolls starts with a carefully curated selection of ingredients. Let’s break down what you’ll need to achieve those fluffy, flavor-packed rolls.
Essential Ingredients for the Dough
To craft the perfect dough, gather the following staples:
- All-purpose flour: About 3 cups, or as needed for the right consistency.
- Granulated sugar: Just ¼ cup to give your dough a subtle sweetness.
- Instant dry yeast: Use 2 ¼ teaspoons (one ¼-ounce packet) for that delightful rise.
- Salt: A pinch will help enhance all flavors.
- Unsalted butter: Melt down ½ cup for rich flavor.
- Buttermilk: Half a cup will make the dough moist and tender.
- Large eggs: Use 2 lightly whisked for added richness.
Filling Components
The filling is where the orange goodness really shines! You’ll need:
- Unsalted butter: 6 tablespoons at room temperature for easy spreading.
- Orange marmalade: About 1 cup for a vibrant citrus burst.
- Light brown sugar: Half a cup, packed to add sweetness and depth.
Orange Glaze Necessities
Top off your rolls with a luscious glaze that makes them shine:
- Orange juice: A ¼ cup will provide a tangy base.
- Vanilla extract: Just ½ teaspoon for extra flavor.
- Confectioners’ sugar: You’ll need 2 cups for that sweet finish.
- Milk or cream: About 3 tablespoons, optional for consistency.
- Orange zest: Use 3 teaspoons, divided, for that aromatic touch.
Ready to roll? With these ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to baking the best glazed orange rolls!
Preparing the Best Glazed Orange Sweet Rolls
Making the best glazed orange sweet rolls at home can feel like a charming bakery experience right in your kitchen. Each step in the process is crucial, but the results are so rewarding. With a little patience and love, you'll create sweet rolls that are bursty with flavor and drizzled in a delightful glaze. Here's how to prepare these beauties from scratch.
Making the dough
Start by gathering your ingredients and creating a warm, inviting atmosphere for your dough to rise. In the bowl of a stand mixer (or a large mixing bowl if you prefer a hands-on approach), combine 3 cups of all-purpose flour, ¼ cup granulated sugar, 2 ¼ teaspoons instant dry yeast, and a pinch of salt. In a separate microwave-safe bowl, melt ½ cup unsalted butter and then warm it with ½ cup buttermilk until it reaches around 120-130°F, essential for activating your yeast (most safety tips are outlined here). Combine this mixture with the dry ingredients, then add 2 lightly whisked eggs. Knead your dough for 5 to 7 minutes until it forms a soft, slightly sticky ball. Allow the dough to rise in a warm area until it doubles in size, about 2 to 2.5 hours.
Preparing the buttery orange filling
While your dough is rising, you can get a head start on the filling. Soften 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter and set it aside. You’ll also need about 1 cup of orange marmalade and ½ cup tightly packed light brown sugar. This mix of sweet and tangy is what makes the filling irresistible, so don't skimp on flavor here!
Rolling out the dough and adding the filling
Once the dough has risen beautifully, punch it down gently and roll it out on a floured countertop to create a rectangle (around 26 by 13 inches). Spread your softened butter evenly over the surface, leaving a small margin around the edges. Next, layer your orange marmalade and sprinkle the brown sugar on top! The key is to keep your layers thin—too much filling can lead to messy rolls when baking.
Slicing and arranging the rolls
After rolling up your dough into a tight log, mark the dough to create 20 evenly sized rolls. I recommend using non-waxed dental floss for slicing; it’s a game-changer! Arrange the rolls in a greased 9x13-inch pan and cover them with plastic wrap, allowing them to rise again for about 1 hour until puffy and beautiful.
Baking the orange rolls
Finally, it's time for the magic to happen! Preheat your oven to 375°F, and bake the rolls for around 15 minutes or until they turn a lovely golden brown. Keep an eye on those beauties; every oven is different, and we don’t want to miss the perfect bake!
So, get ready to indulge in the best glazed orange sweet rolls you’ve ever tasted. The fresh aroma will fill your kitchen, and they’ll be a hit for brunch, breakfast, or a special treat any day of the week. Happy baking!

Variations on the Best Glazed Orange Sweet Rolls
Chocolate Orange Rolls
If you're a fan of the classic combination of chocolate and orange, these chocolate orange rolls are a delightful twist on the best glazed orange sweet rolls. Simply fold in some chocolate chips with the orange filling before rolling up your dough. Bake as usual, then top with your orange glaze for a zesty kick that beautifully complements the rich chocolate. Your taste buds will thank you!
Nut-Filled Orange Rolls
For those who love a little crunch, why not try nut-filled orange rolls? Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling for an added layer of texture and flavor. The nuts not only enhance the sweetness of the filling but also provide a satisfying contrast to the soft, pillowy rolls. Drizzle with the orange glaze, and you've got a sweet treat perfect for any gathering. If you're curious about more variations, check out this article on creative variations for sweet rolls!
Cooking Tips and Notes for the Best Glazed Orange Sweet Rolls
Tips for Dough Consistency
For the best glazed orange sweet rolls, achieving the right dough consistency is crucial. Start with 3 cups of flour; however, if the dough feels too sticky after kneading, gradually add up to ¼ cup more flour. A wetter dough yields softer rolls, while too much flour can make them dense. If your dough seems dry, don't hesitate to drizzle in some buttermilk until it forms a cohesive ball.
Storage and Freezing Advice
To maintain the freshness of your glazed orange rolls, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Reheat them in the microwave for about 5 seconds to restore softness. For longer storage, these rolls freeze beautifully! After baking, cool them completely and freeze for up to 6 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw and glaze them just before serving!

Serving Suggestions for the Best Glazed Orange Sweet Rolls
Perfect accompaniments
Elevate your experience with the best glazed orange sweet rolls by pairing them with delightful accompaniments. A side of fresh fruit, like strawberries or sliced kiwi, adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness. For a savory touch, consider serving them with turkey bacon or fluffy scrambled eggs. If you’re hosting a brunch, a pitcher of freshly squeezed orange juice will harmonize beautifully with the rolls’ citrus flavor, creating a bright and cheerful dining atmosphere.
Creative serving ideas
Get creative with presentation! Try stacking the rolls on a tiered serving platter for a stunning visual impact. You can also serve them warm in a cast-iron skillet, drizzled with extra glaze for a rustic, cozy appeal. Whether enjoyed as a sweet breakfast treat or a delightful afternoon snack, you can’t go wrong with the best glazed orange sweet rolls. Don't forget to consider serving them with a dollop of whipped cream cheese for an elevated twist!
Time Breakdown for the Best Glazed Orange Sweet Rolls
Preparation Time
Get ready for some delightful baking! The preparation time for the best glazed orange sweet rolls is about 30 minutes. This includes gathering your ingredients, mixing the dough, and preparing the filling.
Rise Time
Patience is key when making these sweet rolls! You’ll need to allow the dough to rise for about 3 hours. If you’re short on time, you can let it rise overnight in the fridge to simplify your morning routine.
Baking Time
Once the dough has risen and you've shaped your rolls, they’ll bake in the oven for approximately 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them for that perfect golden-brown hue.
Total Time
From start to finish, including all the rising and baking, you’re looking at about 3 hours and 45 minutes. While this may seem lengthy, the results—fluffy, zesty rolls topped with a creamy orange glaze—are more than worth the wait!
If you're ready to dive into the full recipe for the best glazed orange sweet rolls, make sure to check out the ingredient section above!
Nutritional Facts for the Best Glazed Orange Sweet Rolls
Calories per roll
Each of the best glazed orange sweet rolls contains approximately 319 calories. It's a delightful treat that can fit into most diets—ideal for brunch or a special occasion!
Key nutrients
These rolls boast essential nutrients, including:
- Carbohydrates: 50g for a quick energy boost
- Protein: 4g to help keep you feeling full
- Fat: 12g, with 7g of that being saturated fat
- Fiber: 1g helps support your digestive health
- Sugar: 28g provides that sweet flavor you crave
Suggested serving size
For a satisfying experience, the recommended serving size is one roll. Pair it with a cup of herbal tea or orange juice for a complete and refreshing treat!
For more information on how to balance your meals, check out Nutrition.gov.
FAQs about the Best Glazed Orange Sweet Rolls
Can I make these rolls the night before?
Absolutely! The best glazed orange sweet rolls can be prepared the night before, making them perfect for busy mornings. Just follow the instructions until your rolls are sliced and in the pan, then cover and refrigerate them for up to 16 hours. Before baking, let them rise at room temperature for about an hour until they have nearly doubled in size.
How should I store leftovers?
If you happen to have any leftovers (though they likely won't last long!), store your glazed rolls in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for up to four days. You might want to keep a little orange glaze on hand to drizzle over them when you serve them the next day!
What’s the best way to reheat these rolls?
To enjoy your leftover rolls at their best, simply reheat them in the microwave for about five seconds. This quick zap will re-soften them, making that gooey, orange-infused goodness shine again. You can also serve them warm from the oven if you prefer a fresh-baked experience.
Feel free to share your tips or questions in the comments below!
Conclusion on the Best Glazed Orange Sweet Rolls
In summary, the best glazed orange sweet rolls are a delightful treat for any occasion. With their fluffy texture and zesty filling, they are sure to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy them warm out of the oven or save some for later—just remember to share!

The Best Glazed Orange Sweet Rolls
Equipment
- Stand Mixer
- mixing bowl
- Rolling Pin
- 9x13-inch pan
- plastic wrap
- whisk
Ingredients
Dough
- 3 cups all-purpose flour or as needed
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 ¼ teaspoons instant dry yeast one ¼-ounce packet, Red Star Platinum recommended
- 1 pinch salt to taste
- ½ cup unsalted butter melted (1 stick)
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs lightly whisked
Filling
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter very soft – let sit out while dough rises
- 1 cup orange marmalade approximately
- ½ cup light brown sugar packed
Orange Glaze
- ¼ cup orange juice
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract orange extract may be substituted
- 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 1 pinch salt optional and to taste
- 3 tablespoons milk or cream or as needed for consistency
- 3 teaspoons orange zest divided
Instructions
Make the Dough
- To the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook, add flour, sugar, yeast, and salt; set aside.
- In a measuring cup, melt the butter in the microwave for about 1 minute.
- Add buttermilk to the melted butter and warm to temperature, about 45 seconds in the microwave, ensuring it is warm, not hot.
- Add the butter-buttermilk mixture to the dry ingredients.
- In a small bowl, crack and lightly whisk the eggs; then add the eggs to the mixing bowl.
- Turn the mixer on low and knead the dough for 5 to 7 minutes, adding more flour if necessary to achieve the right consistency.
- Remove dough from the bowl, place in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 2 to 2.5 hours.
- While the dough rises, line a pan with foil and spray with cooking spray.
Roll Out the Dough & Fill
- After the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface.
- Roll it out to about 26-by-13 inches.
- Spread butter evenly over the dough, leaving a ½-inch bare margin.
- Spread marmalade over the butter and sprinkle with brown sugar, patting it down.
- Starting from a long edge, roll the dough into a tightly wound log.
- Slice the rolls into 20 even pieces using dental floss for best results.
- Arrange rolls in the prepared pan and cover with plastic wrap.
- Let rise until nearly doubled in size, about 1 hour.
Bake the Orange Rolls
- Preheat oven to 375F and bake rolls for about 15 minutes, until lightly golden.
Make the Orange Glaze
- In a medium bowl, combine orange juice, vanilla, confectioners’ sugar, optional salt, and whisk to blend.
- Add milk as needed until smooth and pour glaze over rolls.
- Sprinkle with remaining zest before serving.





Leave a Reply