As the sun peeks through the kitchen window, the sweet, citrus aroma of freshly baked Glazed Orange Sweet Rolls fills the air, wrapping you in a warm hug before breakfast even begins. These delightful homemade rolls are a treat for the senses, soft and pillowy, with the perfect balance of creamy orange marmalade nestled within. One of the best perks of this recipe is how easily you can prepare them the night before, making your morning routine that much sweeter! Plus, they are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for family gatherings or simple brunches. Just imagine serving a batch of these beautiful rolls, drizzled with a luscious orange glaze, and watching as everyone dives in for a second helping. Ready to bring a sprinkle of sunshine to your breakfast table? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why are these rolls a must-try?
Homemade Delight: The best Glazed Orange Rolls provide that fresh-baked goodness right from your kitchen, giving you the satisfaction that store-bought simply can’t match.
Effortless Prep: This recipe is perfect for busy mornings—prep the night before and pop them in the oven when you wake up, making breakfast a breeze!
Irresistible Aroma: The sweet, citrus scent wafting through your home will have everyone flocking to the kitchen, eager to enjoy a warm roll.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family gatherings or brunches, these rolls are sure to impress and delight everyone at the table. Treat your loved ones to something special—they’ll thank you!
Versatile Variations: Feel free to swap out the orange marmalade for different jams or even try a lemon twist for a fresh take. Check out serving suggestions for more ideas!
Glazed Orange Sweet Rolls Ingredients
• Get ready to bake the most delightful breakfast treat with these must-have ingredients!
For the Dough
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides the structure and necessary texture for the rolls; a vital ingredient in this glazed orange sweet rolls recipe.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dough and creates a delightful contrast with the tangy orange.
- Instant Dry Yeast – Acts as the leavening agent for that perfect rise; one packet ensures best results.
- Salt – Balances the sweetness; adjust according to your taste preferences.
- Unsalted Butter (melted) – Enhances richness and moisture, creating soft, fluffy rolls. (1 stick)
- Buttermilk – Guarantees softness and tenderness; opt for real buttermilk for the best texture.
- Large Eggs – Adds richness and helps bind the dough together beautifully.
For the Filling
- Unsalted Butter (softened) – Creates a creamy and flavorful texture in the filling.
- Orange Marmalade – Serves as the main flavor, bringing that irresistible sweet citrus profile.
- Light Brown Sugar (packed) – Infuses depth and warmth into the filling, complementing the orange perfectly.
For the Glaze
- Orange Juice – Forms the base for the glaze, delivering bright, zesty flavor.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds a hint of depth; feel free to swap for orange extract for a stronger citrus kick.
- Confectioners’ Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the glaze for a perfect pour-over.
- Pinch of Salt – Optional, but enhances the overall sweetness of the glaze.
- Milk or Cream – Adjusts the glaze consistency to your liking.
- Orange Zest – Elevates flavor in the glaze, giving an aromatic candle of orange bliss.
Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to embrace the sweet aroma of your kitchen as these Glazed Orange Sweet Rolls come to life!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Glazed Orange Sweet Rolls
Step 1: Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 2 1/4 teaspoons of instant dry yeast, and 1 teaspoon of salt. In a separate bowl, mix 1 stick of melted unsalted butter with 1 cup of buttermilk until well blended. Pour the liquid mixture into the dry ingredients, then add 2 large eggs. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Step 2: First Rise
Transfer the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, covering it with a damp kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Place the bowl in a warm, draft-free area, allowing it to rise for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. During this time, you’ll enjoy the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen as your Glazed Orange Sweet Rolls come to life.
Step 3: Prepare Filling
After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release air bubbles. On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Beat 1/4 cup of softened unsalted butter until creamy, then spread evenly over the rolled-out dough. Sprinkle 1 cup of orange marmalade and 1/2 cup of packed light brown sugar on top, ensuring an even layer for a delicious filling.
Step 4: Roll and Cut
Starting from one long side, roll the dough tightly into a log, pressing lightly as you go to keep the filling inside. Once rolled, use dental floss to slice the log into 12 equal pieces, allowing for clean cuts without squishing the dough. Arrange the sliced rolls in a prepared 9×13 inch baking pan, leaving a bit of space between each roll for expansion.
Step 5: Second Rise
Cover the pan with a clean kitchen towel and let the cut rolls rise for about 1 hour, or until they are nearly doubled in size. This second rise is crucial for achieving that fluffy texture in your Glazed Orange Sweet Rolls, so be patient as they puff up beautifully.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once preheated, bake the rolls for about 15-20 minutes or until they are lightly golden brown on top. You’ll know they are ready when the kitchen fills with the sweet citrus scent, making it nearly impossible to resist grabbing one straight from the oven!
Step 7: Make the Glaze
While the rolls are baking, whisk together 1/2 cup of fresh orange juice, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 2 cups of confectioners’ sugar, and 1 tablespoon of orange zest in a medium bowl. If necessary, adjust the consistency with a little milk or cream until it’s smooth and pourable, perfect for drizzling over your warm rolls.
Step 8: Glaze Rolls
Once the rolls are out of the oven, allow them to cool for about 10 minutes before drizzling the orange glaze generously over the top. The warmth of the rolls will help the glaze seep into every crevice, enhancing the flavor of your Glazed Orange Sweet Rolls. Serve warm and indulge in this delightful breakfast treat!

How to Store and Freeze Glazed Orange Sweet Rolls
- Room Temperature: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring they stay moist and delicious.
- Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to a week. Warm them slightly before serving.
- Freezer: Freeze individual rolls in a resealable bag or airtight container for up to 6 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and warm before enjoying.
- Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or until warmed through. This helps revive their soft texture!
Expert Tips for Glazed Orange Sweet Rolls
- Dough Consistency: Keep an eye on your dough; adding too much flour can result in dense rolls. Aim for a soft, slightly sticky texture.
- Warm Ingredients: Use warm, not hot, liquids when mixing to help activate the yeast properly and achieve that perfect rise.
- Even Thickness: Roll out the dough evenly to ensure consistent cooking and that all rolls bake to fluffy perfection.
- Cutting Technique: Use dental floss to slice the rolls—this method prevents squishing, preserving the delicate structure of your glazed orange sweet rolls.
- Adjusting Glaze: Feel free to tweak the glaze consistency with a bit more milk or cream for a smoother finish that drapes beautifully over the rolls.
Make Ahead Options
These Glazed Orange Sweet Rolls are perfect for busy mornings! You can prepare the dough and fill the rolls up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the steps to make the dough, and once you’ve rolled and cut the rolls, place them in a parchment-lined baking pan and cover tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate overnight; this will enhance the flavors while keeping the rolls fresh. When you’re ready to bake, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to take the chill off and allow for a final rise before baking. This prep-ahead method ensures your rolls are just as delicious, saving you time and effort during the busy morning rush!
What to Serve with The Best Glazed Orange Rolls
Imagine a sunny brunch table filled with delightful options that perfectly complement the warm sweetness of these Glazed Orange Rolls.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness, balancing the rich sweetness of the rolls delightfully.
- Creamy Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy, buttery scrambled eggs provide a savory contrast, making your breakfast experience both hearty and satisfying.
- Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layered with granola and berries, this adds creaminess and tang that complements the citrus notes beautifully.
- Bacon or Sausage: Crispy bacon or savory sausage introduces a salty kick, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your brunch ensemble.
- Peach Bellini: A refreshing drink with sparkling wine and peach puree welcomes a brunch vibe, matching the sweet, fruity flavors of the rolls.
- Coffee or Tea: A steaming cup of your favorite brew pairs perfectly, providing cozy warmth alongside the moist and gooey cinnamon goodness.
- Cinnamon Butter: This simple topping takes the classic flavor to new heights, adding a sweet-spicy twist that everyone will adore.
- Honey Butter: Whipped honey butter adds a deliciously sweet spread that enhances every bite, making these rolls even more irresistible.
- Maple Syrup: A drizzle of pure maple syrup creates a delightful sweetness that mingles perfectly with the bright orange glaze, making breakfast extra special!
Glazed Orange Sweet Rolls Variations
Feel free to get creative with these Glazed Orange Sweet Rolls and make them uniquely yours with these fun twists!
- Lemon Zest: Swap orange zest for lemon zest in the dough and glaze for a refreshing twist.
- Fruit Preserves: Substitute the orange marmalade with raspberry or apricot preserves for a new flavor profile. Each preserve brings its own unique sweetness to the rolls.
- Vegan-Friendly: Use almond milk and coconut oil instead of buttermilk and melted butter to create a delightful vegan version. You’ll love how fluffy and tasty they remain!
- Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough or filling for a warm, spiced flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet orange.
- Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling for a satisfying crunch that takes these rolls to the next level. The nutty flavor contrasts wonderfully with the sweetness.
- Choco-Orange Delight: Add mini chocolate chips to the filling for a sweet surprise in every bite. The combination of chocolate and orange is simply heavenly!
- Adjusting Sweetness: Reduce the sugar in the dough slightly if you’re using sweet jams or preserves, ensuring the rolls are not overly sweet.
- Dairy-Free Glaze: Make the glaze with coconut cream instead of milk for a rich, dairy-free option. It adds a lovely tropical hint to the citrus flavor!
Feel free to explore these variations for personalized and irresistible breakfast rolls that will bring smiles to your loved ones’ faces! For more serving ideas, check out serving suggestions and delight in the joy of sharing your creations!

Glazed Orange Sweet Rolls Recipe FAQs
What kind of orange marmalade should I use?
Absolutely, use a quality orange marmalade that has a good balance of sweetness and tartness. I recommend opting for a brand that contains whole fruit pieces for added texture and flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider making your own to control the sweetness!
How do I store my Glazed Orange Sweet Rolls?
For maximum freshness, keep your rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just remember to reheat them slightly in the oven for that freshly-baked taste!
Can I freeze Glazed Orange Sweet Rolls?
Very! To freeze these delightful rolls, cool them completely first. Then, wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap and place them in a resealable freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 6 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge and warm them in the oven before serving.
What if my dough doesn’t rise?
Common troubleshooting! If your dough doesn’t rise, it might be due to the yeast being expired or the liquids being too hot, which can kill the yeast. Ensure you’re using warm but not hot liquids during the mixing phase. If your dough stays dense, you might need to create a warmer environment for rising, like placing it in an oven turned off but slightly warmed.
Are Glazed Orange Sweet Rolls suitable for kids?
Yes! These sweet rolls make a fantastic breakfast or snack for kids. However, be mindful of any orange allergies in your household. The rolls are generally nut-free unless you choose to add any nuts as a variation. Always ensure that the marmalade contains no non-kid-friendly additives!

Irresistible Glazed Orange Sweet Rolls for a Delightful Breakfast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. In another bowl, mix melted butter and buttermilk, then add to dry ingredients with eggs. Knead until smooth.
- Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 2 to 2.5 hours until doubled in size.
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle, spread softened butter, then add marmalade and brown sugar evenly.
- Roll tightly into a log, slice into 12 pieces, and arrange in a baking pan.
- Cover and let the rolls rise for about 1 hour until nearly doubled in size.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake rolls for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Whisk orange juice, vanilla, confectioners’ sugar, and zest to make glaze. Adjust consistency if needed.
- Allow rolls to cool for 10 minutes, then drizzle with glaze and serve warm.

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