Imagine waking up to the most tantalizing aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls, without the hassle of waiting hours for dough to rise! These Orange Cinnamon Rolls are your secret weapon to creating bakery-style magic in just 45 minutes. Whether you're a busy home cook, a baking novice, or simply craving a quick and delicious breakfast treat, this recipe will transform your morning from ordinary to extraordinary with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 rolls
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until well blended.
- Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Pour in melted butter, milk, and orange zest. Mix with a wooden spoon or spatula until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
- Lightly flour a clean work surface. Transfer the dough onto the surface and gently knead 4-5 times to bring the dough together.
- Roll out the dough into a rectangular shape, approximately 12x9 inches, using a rolling pin. Aim for an even thickness of about 1/4 inch.
- In a separate small bowl, mix ground cinnamon and brown sugar to create the filling. Sprinkle this mixture evenly across the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Starting from the long side, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut the log into 12 equal-sized rolls.
- Arrange the rolls in the prepared baking pan, leaving a small space between each roll to allow for expansion during baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- While the rolls are baking, prepare the orange glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and orange juice until smooth and drizzling consistency.
- Remove the rolls from the oven and let cool for 5-10 minutes. Drizzle the orange glaze over the warm rolls, allowing it to seep into the crevices.
- Serve warm and enjoy your quick and delicious Orange Cinnamon Rolls!
Tips
- Ingredient Temperature Matters: Use room temperature milk and butter for the smoothest dough consistency.
- Rolling Technique: When rolling out the dough, use gentle, even pressure to maintain an uniform thickness.
- Cutting Hack: Use unflavored dental floss to slice rolls cleanly and prevent squishing the dough.
- Glaze Consistency: Add orange juice to powdered sugar gradually to control the drizzle thickness.
- Storage Tip: These rolls are best enjoyed warm but can be stored in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat briefly in the microwave for that fresh-baked taste.
- Variation Ideas: Experiment with adding chopped nuts or switching orange zest for lemon for a different flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 20mg
