Ingredients
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
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
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In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water and add 1 tablespoon sugar.
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Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy and bubbly (this means the yeast is activated).
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
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In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, melted butter, remaining sugar, orange zest, salt, and eggs.
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Add the activated yeast mixture and stir to combine.
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Gradually add flour, 1 cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms.
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Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
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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
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In a small bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and orange zest until well combined.
Step 4: Roll Out & Fill the Dough
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Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a large rectangle (about ¼ inch thick).
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Spread the cinnamon-orange filling evenly over the dough.
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Starting from the long edge, roll the dough into a tight log.
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Cut into 12 equal rolls and place in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 5: Second Rise & Bake
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Cover and let the rolls rise for 30-45 minutes, until puffy.
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 6: Make the Orange Glaze
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In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, orange zest, and heavy cream until smooth.
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Drizzle over the warm cinnamon rolls.
Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!
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Serve warm and enjoy the sweet, citrusy, and gooey goodness!
Notes
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.