Orange Cinnamon Rolls: A Sweet & Citrusy Twist on a Classic Treat

If you love warm, gooey cinnamon rolls, then these Orange Cinnamon Rolls will take your taste buds to a whole new level! This recipe gives a bright, citrusy twist to traditional cinnamon rolls, combining the warmth of cinnamon and sugar with the zesty freshness of orange in both the dough and glaze.

Perfect for breakfast, brunch, holidays, or a weekend treat, these rolls are soft, fluffy, and dripping with a luscious orange glaze.

Let’s dive into how to make these heavenly homemade orange cinnamon rolls step by step!

Why You’ll Love Orange Cinnamon Rolls

✅ Soft & Fluffy – The dough is perfectly light and pillowy.
✅ Sweet & Citrusy – A balance of cinnamon spice and fresh orange zest.
✅ Perfect for Any Occasion – Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
✅ Make-Ahead Friendly – Prep the night before and bake in the morning!
✅ Dripping with Orange Glaze – Every bite is sweet, citrusy, and irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Dough

1 package active dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons)
¾ cup warm water (about 110°F/45°C)
1 ½ cups warm milk
½ cup granulated sugar, divided
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 teaspoons orange zest
1 teaspoon salt
2 eggs
5-6 cups all-purpose flour

For the Cinnamon-Orange Filling

½ cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons cinnamon
1 tablespoon orange zest

For the Orange Glaze

1 ½ cups powdered sugar
3 tablespoons fresh orange juice
1 teaspoon orange zest
2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water and add 1 tablespoon sugar.
Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy and bubbly (this means the yeast is activated).

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, melted butter, remaining sugar, orange zest, salt, and eggs.
Add the activated yeast mixture and stir to combine.
Gradually add flour, 1 cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Make the Cinnamon-Orange Filling

In a small bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and orange zest until well combined.

Step 4: Roll Out & Fill the Dough

Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a large rectangle (about ¼ inch thick).
Spread the cinnamon-orange filling evenly over the dough.
Starting from the long edge, roll the dough into a tight log.
Cut into 12 equal rolls and place in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 5: Second Rise & Bake

Cover and let the rolls rise for 30-45 minutes, until puffy.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 6: Make the Orange Glaze

In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, orange zest, and heavy cream until smooth.
Drizzle over the warm cinnamon rolls.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve warm and enjoy the sweet, citrusy, and gooey goodness!

Serving Ideas & Pairings

🍊 With Fresh Fruit – Serve with oranges, strawberries, or blueberries.
☕ With Coffee or Tea – Perfect alongside a warm cup of coffee or chamomile tea.
🍦 With Ice Cream – Try with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for dessert.
🥞 Make It a Brunch Favorite – Serve alongside scrambled eggs and bacon for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Orange Cinnamon Rolls

🔹 Use Fresh Orange Zest – It enhances the citrus flavor beautifully.
🔹 Let the Dough Rise Fully – This ensures soft, fluffy rolls.
🔹 Don’t Overbake – Bake until golden brown, but still soft in the center.
🔹 Make Them Extra Gooey – Add an extra tablespoon of butter in the filling.
🔹 Make It Ahead – Prepare the rolls the night before and refrigerate overnight. Bake in the morning!

Fun Variations to Try

🔥 Chocolate-Orange Cinnamon Rolls – Add chocolate chips to the filling.
🍯 Honey Orange Rolls – Swap sugar for honey in the glaze.
🥥 Coconut Orange Rolls – Sprinkle toasted coconut on top.
🌰 Nutty Orange Rolls – Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling.
🍓 Berry Orange Rolls – Spread strawberry or raspberry jam before rolling up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make These Ahead of Time?

Yes! After assembling the rolls, cover them and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.

Can I Freeze Orange Cinnamon Rolls?

Absolutely! Bake the rolls, then freeze them (without glaze) for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before adding glaze.

What If I Don’t Have Active Dry Yeast?

Use instant yeast and skip the proofing step—just mix everything together.

Can I Make These Dairy-Free?

Yes! Swap butter for vegan butter and milk for almond or oat milk.

Final Thoughts

Orange Cinnamon Rolls are a delicious, citrusy twist on a classic favorite. The combination of warm cinnamon, sweet orange zest, and gooey glaze makes them irresistible. Whether you’re making them for breakfast, brunch, or a special occasion, these soft, fluffy, and flavorful rolls will be a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Try this homemade recipe today and enjoy the perfect balance of sweet, citrus, and spice!