Description
Experience the warmth and comfort of freshly baked Orange Dinner Rolls, bursting with the sweet, zesty aroma of fresh oranges. These soft, fluffy rolls are a delightful fusion of classic bread with a vibrant citrus twist, perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or cozy brunches. Each bite offers a refreshing burst of orange flavor balanced by a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Easy to make, even for beginners, these rolls will brighten up any meal with their sunny, citrus charm.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (substitute with gluten-free flour if needed)
- ½ cup fresh orange juice (preferably freshly squeezed)
- 2 tbsp orange zest
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted (can substitute with plant-based butter)
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- ⅓ cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
For the Orange Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp fresh orange juice
- 1 tsp orange zest
- ½ tsp vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
Activate the Yeast:
In a bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.Prepare the Dough:
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and orange zest. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then mix in orange juice and melted butter. Combine with the activated yeast mixture.Knead the Dough:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until a sticky dough forms. Transfer to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. (Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-7 minutes on medium speed.)First Rise:
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let rise in a warm, draft-free area for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.Shape the Rolls:
Punch down the dough, divide it into equal portions, and shape into rolls. Place them in a greased baking dish or on a lined baking sheet.Second Rise:
Cover the shaped rolls and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffy.Bake:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 18-22 minutes, or until golden brown on top.Prepare the Glaze:
While the rolls are baking, whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, zest, and vanilla extract until smooth.Glaze and Serve:
Brush the warm rolls with melted butter, then drizzle with the orange glaze. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Make Ahead: Prepare the dough and refrigerate overnight for enhanced flavor. Let come to room temperature before baking.
- Freezing: Freeze baked rolls or unbaked shaped rolls. Thaw, rise, and bake as usual.
- Flavor Variations: Add dried cranberries for a festive twist or swirl with cinnamon sugar for an Orange-Cinnamon Roll variation.
- Pro Tip: Zest the oranges before juicing them—it’s much easier and preserves the vibrant oils for maximum flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 210
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Protein: 5g