Name: Orange Cinnamon Rolls
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 12 rolls
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast; 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup orange juice, fresh; 1 tbsp orange zest; 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed; 2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling); 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze); 2 tbsp orange juice (for glaze); 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Hey y’all! If you’re on the hunt for a treat that’s equal parts comforting and lively, these Orange Cinnamon Rolls are about to become your new favorite. Imagine soft, pillowy rolls bursting with cinnamon spice and bright, citrusy orange—pure bliss in every bite! They’re a showstopper for Sunday brunch, special occasions, or just because you deserve something sweet. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Orange Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

The zesty orange glaze gives classic cinnamon rolls an irresistible twist.
Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a cozy dessert for gatherings.
Make-ahead friendly—prep the night before and bake fresh in the morning.
Fluffy, soft texture pairs perfectly with the gooey cinnamon-sugar swirl.
Customizable with fun add-ins like nuts or dried fruit.

Ingredients for Orange Cinnamon Rolls

For the Dough:
- 3 ½ cups (440g) all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup (65g) granulated sugar
- 2 ¼ teaspoon (1 packet) active dry yeast
- ½ cup (120ml) whole milk, warm (about 110°F)
- ¼ cup (60ml) orange juice, freshly squeezed
- ¼ cup (55g) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon orange zest (about 1 large orange)
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
- ½ cup (110g) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup (150g) brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
For the Orange Glaze:
- 1 ½ cups (180g) powdered sugar
- 3-4 tablespoon freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract (optional)

How to Make Orange Cinnamon Rolls – Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Orange Dough

In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine warm milk, orange juice, sugar, and yeast. Stir and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
Add melted butter, eggs, orange zest, and salt. Mix until just blended.
Add flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes (by hand or mixer) until smooth and elastic. The dough should be slightly tacky.
Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Orange Filling

While the dough rises, mix softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and orange zest until well combined.

Step 3: Roll Out and Fill the Dough

Turn risen dough onto a lightly floured surface. Roll into a 16×12-inch rectangle.
Spread the filling evenly over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border.
Starting from the long side, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch seam to seal.
Cut into 12 equal rolls and arrange in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 4: Second Rise and Bake

Cover the pan with a towel or plastic wrap. Let the rolls rise in a warm area for 30-45 minutes or until puffy.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 22-25 minutes or until golden on top.

Step 5: Make the Orange Glaze

Whisk powdered sugar, orange juice, zest, and vanilla (if using) until smooth.
Drizzle over warm rolls and enjoy!

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Notes for Perfect Orange Cinnamon Rolls

For overnight prep, assemble rolls, cover, and refrigerate; let them come to room temperature before baking (see details at overnight cinnamon roll technique).
Use fresh orange zest and juice for the brightest flavor—avoid bottled juice if possible.
Check yeast freshness by proofing in warm liquid before mixing with other ingredients (learn more about yeast).