Hey there, friends and fellow bakers! ย Today, I’m beyond excited to share with you a recipe that’s been a game-changer in my kitchen – Orange Cinnamon Rolls! Imagine the comforting warmth of classic cinnamon rolls, but with a zesty, citrusy twist.
Here’s what you’ll need for this mouth-watering creation:
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 1 package active dry yeast
- ยพ cup warm water (110ยฐF to 115ยฐF)
- 1ยฝ cups warm milk
- ยฝ cup sugar, divided
- 1ยฝ teaspoons salt
- 4ยฝ cups flour, divided
- ยผ cup shortening, melted
For the Orange Icing:
- 4ยฝ tablespoons butter, softened
- 1ยฝ tablespoons orange zest
- 3 tablespoons orange juice
- 2ยผ cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Yeast Mixture:
- In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water. Add a tablespoon of the sugar and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is active.
- Make the Dough:
- To the yeast mixture, add the warm milk, remaining sugar, salt, and two cups of flour. Beat until smooth.
- Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough (the dough will be sticky).
- Turn onto a floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes.
- Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease the top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
- Shape the Rolls:
- Punch down the dough. Turn it onto a lightly floured surface and divide it in half.
- Roll each half into a 12×8 inch rectangle. Brush with melted shortening.
- Optional: You can sprinkle cinnamon and sugar mixture on the dough for extra flavor.
- Roll up each rectangle jelly-roll style, starting with a long side; pinch seam to seal.
- Cut each into 12 slices. Place cut side down in two greased 13×9 inch baking pans.
- Cover and let rise until doubled, about 30 minutes.
- Bake the Rolls:
- Preheat the oven to 375ยฐF (190ยฐC).
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on wire racks.
- Prepare the Orange Icing:
- In a small bowl, beat together the butter, orange zest, and orange juice.
- Gradually beat in powdered sugar until smooth.
- Finish with Icing:
- Once the rolls are slightly cooled, drizzle them with the orange icing.
Serve these warm, fluffy Orange Cinnamon Rolls fresh from the oven for a truly delightful treat. The zesty orange icing adds a fresh and tangy twist to the classic cinnamon roll, making them irresistible for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack. Enjoy your baking adventure!
