There’s something about the smell of sweet rolls baking that takes me straight back to my grandmother’s sunny kitchen in the heart of summer. The windows flung open, the scent of citrus wafting through the air, and the hum of bees outside—it was a whole vibe. This Homemade Orange Sweet Rolls recipe was a summer favorite of hers, a tangy twist on the classic cinnamon roll, and now it’s yours to enjoy. With a bright, citrusy filling and a sticky orange glaze, these rolls are sunshine in every bite.
Let’s roll up our sleeves and bring a little zest into the kitchen!
🕒 Quick Snapshot
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Rise Time: 1.5 hours
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: ~2 hours 25 minutes
• Servings: 4
Ingredients
Dough:
• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• ¾ cup warm milk (around 110°F)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
Orange Filling:
• ⅓ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• Zest of 2 oranges
Orange Glaze:
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2–3 tbsp fresh orange juice
• Zest of 1 orange (optional for extra punch)
Instructions Homemade Orange Sweet Rolls
1. Activate the Yeast
In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk with a teaspoon of sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy. This step is like waking the yeast up from its nap.
2. Mix the Dough
Add sugar, egg, melted butter, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir until combined. Gradually mix in the flour until a soft dough forms. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If you have a stand mixer, now’s its time to shine.
3. First Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1–1.5 hours or until doubled in size. While it rises, zest your oranges and soak up that citrus aroma!
4. Make the Orange Filling
Mix the softened butter with sugar and orange zest. It should resemble a bright, fragrant paste.
5. Roll and Fill
Punch down the dough and roll it into a 12×8 inch rectangle on a floured surface. Spread the orange filling evenly across the surface.
6. Roll It Up
Starting from the longer edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Slice into 8 rolls (a bit thick and indulgent—just how summer rolls should be).
7. Second Rise
Place the rolls in a greased 9-inch baking dish. Cover and let them rise again for 30 minutes.
8. Bake
Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and your kitchen smells like citrus heaven.
9. Glaze
While still warm, drizzle the sweet orange glaze over the top. Let it soak in a little, then serve warm.
Tips for the Best Orange Sweet Rolls
• Use fresh oranges for zest and juice—nothing beats that brightness.
• Add a touch of vanilla to the glaze for extra depth.
• Want a festive twist? Add a dash of cardamom or cinnamon to the filling.
Why You’ll Love These Homemade Orange Sweet Rolls
• Bright and fresh: The orange zest and juice cut through the sweetness with just the right zing.
• Perfect for summer brunches, picnics, or lazy weekends.
• Customizable: Add chopped nuts, berries, or even a cream cheese frosting for extra richness.
Pair It With…
• A tall glass of iced vanilla latte
• Sparkling citrus mocktail with a mint sprig
• Greek yogurt and honey with berries for a full brunch spread
Share the Sunshine!
Tried this recipe? I’d love to hear how yours turned out. Drop your tweaks and thoughts in the comments!
More Sweet Breakfast Ideas
If you love the comforting sweetness of these rolls, you’ll also enjoy this Easy Breakfast Cheese Danish—flaky, creamy, and perfect for a cozy weekend brunch.
Looking for something even more indulgent? Try the Cheesecake Crescent Rolls Casserole. It’s like dessert for breakfast, and every bit as dreamy as it sounds.
External Resources
Here are a few extra reads and pairings you might enjoy:
• The Health Benefits of Citrus Fruits
• 10 Easy Summer Brunch Recipes
Frequently Asked Questions Homemade Orange Sweet Rolls
Can I make orange sweet rolls ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the rolls the night before and store them in the refrigerator after shaping. Just cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap. In the morning, let them come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave for 15–20 seconds to bring back that fresh-from-the-oven softness.
Can I freeze these rolls?
Absolutely. You can freeze them either before or after baking. If freezing after baking, let them cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
Can I use bottled orange juice instead of fresh?
Fresh juice and zest provide the brightest flavor, but in a pinch, bottled juice will work for the glaze. Try to always use fresh zest, though—it’s where the magic happens!
What if I don’t have a stand mixer?
No worries at all! This dough is very forgiving and easy to knead by hand. Just give it about 8–10 minutes of love on a floured surface.
Conclusion
These Homemade Orange Sweet Rolls are more than just a recipe—they’re a burst of sunshine wrapped in soft, pillowy dough. Whether you’re looking to impress at brunch, brighten a summer morning, or simply treat yourself, these rolls deliver. Their sweet-tart citrusy flavor and soft, gooey center will have everyone reaching for seconds—and asking for the recipe.
Inspired by the comforting rituals of my Italian-American kitchen summers, these rolls bring tradition and a twist of creativity to your table. Don’t be surprised if they become a seasonal staple in your home too!
Now, go on—zest those oranges and start rolling!