Sunshine Citrus Swirls Orange Cinnamon Rolls

Sunshine Citrus Swirls Orange Cinnamon Rolls with Icing

By Marcus O’NeillSeptember 10, 2025Updated: September 9, 2025

Table of Contents

Recipe Introduction: Sunshine in Every Swirl

Fancy a bit of sunshine on a cloudy day? Ever had those days when you just crave a sweet treat? Honestly, you need to try these Orange Cinnamon Rolls with Icing .

They're like a big, warm hug in pastry form.

A Twist on a Classic

These Citrus Cinnamon Roll Recipe are more than just your average buns. We're talking about a delightful spin on the classic cinnamon roll.

Think sunshine, orange groves and a touch of pure indulgence.

These Homemade Orange Sweet Rolls originate from the desire to amplify the normal flavored cinnamon rolls, elevating it to orange heaven! They take about 3 hours.

You'll get 12 rolls, perfect for sharing or, let's be honest, keeping them all to yourself.

Why You'll Love These Rolls

These Homemade Orange Sweet Rolls have a big hit of vitamin C from the orange. They are perfect for a lazy Sunday brunch.

What makes these Orange Cream Cheese Rolls special? The burst of fresh orange, combined with the tangy cream cheese icing is just great.

It's pure comfort, only it's got an extra zing.

Ready to get baking? Let's dive into what you need to make these amazing Flavored Cinnamon Rolls Homemade . First, the ingredients.

Ingredients & Equipment for the Best Orange Cinnamon Rolls with Icing

Sunshine Citrus Swirls Orange Cinnamon Rolls presentation

Right then, let's talk about what you need to make these amazing Orange Cinnamon Rolls with Icing ! Honestly, it's not too complicated, even if you're a bit "pants" in the kitchen.

You will be making some Flavored Cinnamon Rolls Homemade . So you need the right gear, yeah? So grab your aprons and let's make some Orange Rolls Homemade !.

Main Players: Dough Ingredients

Lukewarm whole milk: 1 cup (240ml) . Temperature is key – 105- 115° F (40- 46° C) . Too hot, and you'll kill the yeast, yeah? The user will be looking for Easy Orange Rolls Recipe .
Active dry yeast: 2 ¼ teaspoons (7g) . Make sure it's not ancient!
Granulated sugar: ¼ cup (50g) , plus 1 teaspoon .
Salt: ½ teaspoon (3g) .
Unsalted butter: ¼ cup (57g) , melted and cooled.
Egg: 1 large , at room temperature. This is a Citrus Cinnamon Roll Recipe .
All-purpose flour: 3 ½ cups (420g) , plus extra for dusting. Bread flour works too.
Orange zest: From 1 large orange . The zest is like, the secret weapon for flavour.

For the milk, if it's too hot, it will kill the yeast. If that happens, start again! Ask me how I know that...

Seasoning Sensations: Filling Ingredients

Unsalted butter: ½ cup (113g) , softened.
Granulated sugar: ½ cup (100g) .
Packed light brown sugar: ¼ cup (50g) .
Fresh orange juice: 2 tablespoons (30ml) . Think Orange Roll now.
Ground cinnamon: 2 tablespoons (10g) . Oh my gosh, this is a lot of cinnamon!
Orange zest: From 1 large orange . Get that Filling For Cinnamon Rolls on!

Don't skimp on the cinnamon! It's what makes Cinnamon Orange Rolls so yummy.

Icing on the Cake: Topping Ingredients

Cream cheese: 4 ounces (113g) , softened. This is a must for Orange Cream Cheese Rolls .
Unsalted butter: ¼ cup (57g) , softened.
Powdered sugar: 2 cups (240g) , sifted.
Whole milk or heavy cream: 2-3 tablespoons (30-45ml) .
Vanilla extract: ½ teaspoon (2.5ml) .
Pinch of salt.
Orange zest: From ½ an orange , for garnish. Totally optional. This is amazing for Brunch Recipes Sweet Rolls .

Tools of the Trade: Equipment

Stand mixer: Makes kneading easier. But hands work, too!
Large mixing bowl: For proofing the dough.
9x13 inch baking pan: A must for baking all the Homemade Orange Sweet Rolls .
Rolling pin: For rolling out the dough, like a pro.
Measuring cups and spoons: Gotta be precise.
Zester: For getting that lovely orange zest.
Pastry brush: Optional, for brushing melted butter.

If you don't have a stand mixer, don't panic! Kneading by hand is totally doable. Just takes a bit more elbow grease!

Unlocking Sunshine: The Secret to Perfect Orange Cinnamon Rolls with Icing

Right, let's talk about method! Making Orange Cinnamon Rolls with Icing might seem a bit posh, but I promise it's easier than you think.

I use Sally's Baking Addiction (https://sallysbakingaddiction.com/orange rolls/) for this recipe. They’re a proper treat for brunch.

Prep Like a Pro: Get Your Ducks in a Row

First things first, mise en place is key! Get all your ingredients measured and ready. Honestly, it saves so much time later.

Softened butter is a must. This Citrus Cinnamon Roll Recipe is even easier if you're organized.

step-by-step to Orange Cinnamon Roll Heaven

Here's the breakdown:

Warm the milk (105- 115° F / 40- 46° C) . Activate the yeast with a teaspoon of sugar. You'll want this foamy!
Mix your dry ingredients. Combine with wet ingredients. Knead for 5- 7 minutes (mixer) or 8- 10 minutes (by hand).
First proof! Let it rise 1-1. 5 hours until doubled. Think of it as dough yoga.
Make the filling. Mash together butter, sugars, juice, cinnamon, and zest.
Roll, spread, slice. Arrange into a greased pan.
Second proof! Give them 30- 45 minutes to get puffy again.
Bake at 350° F ( 175° C) for 25- 30 minutes . Until golden.
Whip up your cream cheese icing! Let the Orange Rolls cool slightly, then ice!

Pro Tips: Level Up Your Roll Game

Don’t overheat the milk, or the yeast will die on you! It has happened to me before. Also, Flavored Cinnamon Rolls Homemade are best when you proof them in a warm place.

For best results, use floss to slice the rolls!

These Easy Orange Rolls Recipe are divine served warm. Reheat leftovers for that just baked flavour.

Recipe Notes for the Best Orange Cinnamon Rolls with Icing

Alright, here are some extra bits that'll really make your Orange Cinnamon Rolls with Icing shine. You know? The little things that can make a big difference! This Citrus Cinnamon Roll Recipe is already pretty awesome, but these tweaks take it to the next level.

Serving Suggestions: Make 'Em Look Gorgeous

These Homemade Orange Sweet Rolls deserve a proper presentation. After icing, sprinkle with extra orange zest for a pop of color.

I reckon a few fresh orange segments on the side look cracking too. These Brunch Recipes Sweet Rolls are perfect with a side of crispy bacon or a sausage patty.

Don't forget a cuppa or a mimosa!

Storage Tips: Keeping That Freshness

Honestly, these Orange Rolls Homemade are best devoured warm. However, if you have any left (unlikely!), wrap them tightly and pop them in the fridge.

They'll keep for about 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a low oven ( 175° F / 80° C) for about 10 minutes .

You can also freeze unfrosted rolls. Thaw overnight in the fridge.

Variations: Spice It Up!

Fancy a twist? For a dietary adaptation, try using gluten-free flour blend. Honestly, the texture will be slightly different, but still yummy.

For a seasonal swap, use blood oranges in winter. Adds such a vibrant color and extra zing to the Flavored Cinnamon Rolls Homemade and Filling For Cinnamon Rolls !

Nutrition Basics: A Treat, Not a Treatment

Okay, let's be real. These Easy Orange Rolls Recipe are a treat. But! The orange zest and juice do provide a little vitamin C.

Just enjoy in moderation. Indulge your cravings. If you're after a healthier option, reduce the sugar in the Orange Cream Cheese Rolls recipe.

Right then, go on and bake some sunshine! These Cinnamon Orange Rolls are sure to be a hit. Don’t be shy to experiment.

It's all about having fun in the kitchen. Remember practice makes perfect , so don’t give up if your first batch isn’t spot on.

You’ve got this!

Delicious Orange Rolls Secret To Amazing Sweet Rolls

Frequently Asked Questions

Help! My dough isn't rising. What am I doing wrong?

Right, don't panic! A few things could be up. Firstly, make sure your milk wasn't too hot when you added the yeast that can "kill" it. The milk should be lukewarm, like bath water for a baby bear. Secondly, the room might be too cold.

Yeast thrives in warmth, so try putting the dough in a slightly warmed (but switched off!) oven or near a radiator to give it a boost.

Can I make these Orange Cinnamon Rolls with Icing ahead of time? I'm baking for a Bank Holiday bash!

Absolutely, planning ahead is key for a big do! You can prepare the rolls up to the second proofing stage, then cover them tightly and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them sit at room temperature for about an hour to take the chill off before baking. Alternatively, bake them completely, cool, and freeze.

When ready to serve, thaw and reheat gently, then ice.

My icing is too runny/thick! How do I fix the cream cheese icing for these Orange Cinnamon Rolls?

Ah, the icing conundrum! If it's too runny, gradually add more sifted powdered sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency. If it's too thick, add a splash of milk or cream, a teaspoon at a time, until it thins out. Remember, it's easier to add than take away, so go slow and steady.

Taste as you go!

Can I freeze these Orange Cinnamon Rolls with Icing?

You bet! These rolls freeze beautifully. For best results, freeze them after baking but before icing. Let them cool completely, then wrap them individually or as a whole batch in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. They'll keep well for up to 2-3 months.

When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge or at room temperature, then warm them in a low oven before icing.

I'm not a fan of cream cheese icing. What other icing options would go well with these Orange Cinnamon Rolls?

No worries, there are plenty of icing options! A simple orange glaze made with powdered sugar and fresh orange juice is a classic and zesty choice. Alternatively, you could try a vanilla glaze or even a maple glaze for a warmer, richer flavour. Get creative and use what you have!

Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour for these Orange Cinnamon Rolls with Icing?

You absolutely can! Bread flour has a higher protein content, which will result in a slightly chewier and more structured roll. Some people prefer this texture! If you're using bread flour, you might need to add a tablespoon or two more liquid to the dough to achieve the right consistency.

Keep an eye on it and adjust as needed.