Orange Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you adore the bright, sunny burst of citrus combined with soft, pillowy dough and a luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Orange Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. These rolls strike the perfect harmony between sweet and zesty, making every bite a delightful wake-up call for your taste buds. Whether it’s a special weekend breakfast or a cozy brunch treat, this recipe brings warmth, freshness, and a bit of indulgence into your kitchen with each fluffy, fragrant roll.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering ingredients for this Orange Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is surprisingly simple, but each one plays a starring role in delivering the vibrant flavor, soft texture, and irresistible aroma. From the bright orange zest to the creamy butter and tangy cream cheese, every component adds something special.

• ½ cup milk (114 grams, warm 105-115°F): Provides moisture and helps activate the yeast for fluffy dough.
• ½ cup orange juice (114 grams, warm 105-115°F, from 2 oranges): Adds a fresh citrus note that brightens the entire roll.
• ¼ ounce active dry yeast (7 grams, 1 envelope): The key to that perfect rise and airy texture.
• 4 cups all-purpose flour (480 grams, plus more as needed): The foundation for your tender, soft dough.
• ¼ cup granulated sugar (50 grams): Balances the citrus with just the right hint of sweetness.
• ¼ cup unsalted butter (57 grams, melted and cooled slightly): Ensures richness that soothes the palate.
• 2 large eggs (100 grams, room temperature and lightly beaten): Create structure and add moisture for that fluffy bite.
• 1 teaspoon orange zest (2 grams): Intensifies the orange flavor inside the dough itself.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors, keeping the rolls balanced.
• ¾ cup granulated sugar (150 grams): Sweetens the cinnamon-orange filling to perfection.
• ½ cup unsalted butter (113 grams, room temperature): Adds smoothness and richness to the filling.
• 2 tablespoons orange zest (12 grams, from 1 orange): Infuses the filling with bright citrus tanginess.
• ½ tablespoon ground cinnamon (5 grams): Offers warm spice that complements the orange beautifully.
• 2 cups powdered sugar (226 grams): Creates the sweet base for the cream cheese frosting.
• 4 ounces cream cheese (114 grams, room temperature): Provides that signature tangy cream cheese flavor in the frosting.
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (42 grams, room temperature): Makes the frosting luxuriously smooth.
• 3 tablespoons orange juice (43 grams, from ¾ orange): Gives the frosting a fresh citrus zing.
• 2 teaspoons orange zest (4 grams): A final burst of orange flavor in the frosting for extra brightness.

How to Make Orange Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Bloom the Yeast

Start by combining warm milk and orange juice with the active dry yeast in a glass measuring cup, stirring gently to dissolve the yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy on top – this bloom means your yeast is active and ready to work its magic on the dough.

Step 2: Mix the Dough Ingredients

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the flour, sugar, melted butter, beaten eggs, orange zest, and salt. Mix just until the ingredients begin to come together; this gentle mixing helps ensure a soft, tender roll.

Step 3: Incorporate Yeast Mixture and Knead

Add the foamy milk and orange juice mixture to the dry ingredients, and mix on low speed for 1-2 minutes until blended. Switch to the dough hook attachment, increase speed to medium-low, and knead for about 5 minutes until the dough is smooth, soft, and slightly sticky to the touch.

Step 4: First Rise

Spray a large glass bowl with nonstick spray and place the dough ball inside, turning it to coat with the spray. Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap and place it somewhere warm. Let the dough rise until it doubles in size, which should take around 45 to 60 minutes.

Step 5: Prepare the Filling

While the dough is resting, mix together the sugar, softened butter, orange zest, and cinnamon in a small bowl. The filling should be smooth and easily spreadable — this blend will be the heart of the irresistible cinnamon-orange flavor inside the rolls.

Step 6: Roll Out the Dough

Once your dough has doubled, punch it down gently and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough carefully into a large rectangle, roughly 20 by 14 inches and about ¼ inch thick. This canvas is where the filling will spread its magic.

Step 7: Spread the Filling

Evenly spread the cinnamon-orange sugar filling over the dough, leaving about a 1-inch space along one of the long edges to help with rolling. This step ensures every bite is bursting with that classic orange roll sweetness and spice.

Step 8: Shape and Cut the Rolls

Roll the dough up jelly-roll style, starting from the long end with filling. Using unflavored dental floss for a clean cut, slice the dough log into 12 equal rolls. Place these side-by-side in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, cover, and let them rise again until doubled, approximately 30-45 minutes.

Step 9: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F to get it ready for baking — timing is everything to ensure soft, golden rolls that are perfectly cooked.

Step 10: Bake the Rolls

Bake the risen rolls for 20 to 25 minutes until their tops turn lightly golden and an internal thermometer reads 190°F. Let them cool slightly before frosting, allowing flavors to settle just right.

Step 11: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the rolls bake, mix the powdered sugar, cream cheese, softened butter, orange juice, and orange zest in your stand mixer until smooth and creamy. This frosting will be the crowning glory, adding tangy sweetness and luscious texture.

Step 12: Frost and Serve

Spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm orange rolls generously so it melts slightly into every crevice. Serve these beauties fresh for a truly unforgettable treat.

How to Serve Orange Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

For an elegant touch, sprinkle a bit of extra fresh orange zest or thinly sliced candied orange peel over the cream cheese frosting just before serving. It adds a vibrant pop of color and reinforces the citrus theme.

Side Dishes

Pair these rolls with a simple fresh fruit salad or a cup of rich coffee or spiced tea to balance the sweetness. A dollop of whipped cream or mascarpone on the side can also elevate your breakfast or brunch spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your orange rolls into mini sliders by cutting them in half horizontally and adding a spread of honey butter or a drizzle of citrus glaze. Alternatively, serve them warm in individual ramekins covered with frosting for a charming single-serve dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any uneaten rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them soft and preserves all the fresh orange aromas and creamy frosting flavors.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked rolls after slicing by wrapping the pan tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then thawing overnight in the fridge before baking. For baked rolls, freeze individually wrapped portions to enjoy later, allowing them to thaw at room temperature before reheating.

Reheating

Warm leftover rolls in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes or microwave a single roll wrapped in a damp paper towel for 20-30 seconds to bring back that fresh-baked softness and melty frosting goodness.

FAQs

Can I use fresh-squeezed orange juice for this recipe?

Absolutely! Fresh-squeezed orange juice not only intensifies the bright flavor but also brings a natural sweetness that enhances the rolls beautifully. Just ensure it’s warmed properly for yeast activation.

What type of yeast works best for Orange Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe?

Active dry yeast is ideal here because it gives a reliable rise and great texture. Just be sure to bloom it in warm liquids to activate properly before mixing into the dough.

Can I make these rolls dairy-free?

Yes, with some substitutions. Use plant-based milk and butter alternatives, plus a dairy-free cream cheese for the frosting. The texture may vary slightly but the orange flavor will still shine brilliantly.

How do I know when the rolls are fully baked?

The rolls should be lightly golden on top and reach an internal temperature of 190°F. They will feel soft but springy to the touch once done, ensuring they’re perfectly baked and not doughy inside.

Is it possible to use a hand mixer instead of a stand mixer?

You can use a hand mixer with dough hooks for this recipe, but kneading the dough by hand or with a stand mixer will yield the best texture. Be patient with the kneading to develop the dough’s structure for soft, fluffy rolls.

Final Thoughts

This Orange Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is a heartfelt reminder that sometimes the simplest ingredients come together to create something truly spectacular. The blend of bright, fresh orange with tender dough and rich, tangy frosting makes these rolls a standout on any table. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, embrace the cozy aromas, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this wonderfully joyful bake. You won’t regret it!

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