Orange Butterhorn Rolls

Prep: 30 min Cook: 15 min Serves: 24 Cuisine: American

Orange Butterhorn Rolls are soft, sweet, and fragrant with a hint of orange zest, perfect for breakfast or brunch. Their buttery, airy texture and citrus flavor appeal to those who enjoy warm, freshly baked rolls. Ideal for family gatherings or special occasions, they can be enjoyed hot or at room temperature.

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Ingredients

  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 1 cup milk
  • 3 eggs
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 cake yeast
  • 4 to 5 cups flour
  • 1/4 cup grated orange rind

Instructions

  1. Heat milk, butter, and salt until the butter melts.
  2. Remove from heat.
  3. Stir in eggs, mixing well.
  4. Add sugar and yeast.
  5. Stir in flour to form a dough.
  6. Knead the dough until shiny and elastic.
  7. Place the dough in a warm place to rise until doubled in size.
  8. Divide the dough into two equal parts.
  9. Roll out each part like a pizza.
  10. Spread half of the orange rind and sugar mixture over each rolled-out dough.
  11. Cut each into 24 slices.
  12. Roll up each slice starting from the wide end.
  13. Place the rolls on a baking sheet.
  14. Allow the rolls to rise until doubled in size.
  15. Bake at 375°F (190°C) until lightly browned, about 15 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of regular butter. If you don't have cake yeast, you can substitute with active dry yeast; just activate it in warm milk first. To enhance the orange flavor, mix in a bit of orange juice with the rind. Kneading the dough until shiny and elastic is crucial for the perfect texture.

Serving Suggestions

These Orange Butterhorn Rolls are delightful served warm with a pat of butter or alongside a cup of coffee or tea. They pair beautifully with Garlic Parmesan Bread for a brunch spread. Consider serving them with fruit preserves or a light cream cheese spread for a sweet touch. They also make a wonderful addition to holiday gatherings.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Orange Butterhorn Rolls contains roughly 235 calories, with 2g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 18g fat.

235 kcal 12% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.7g 3% DV
Total Fat 17.9g 23% DV
Carbs 16.7g 6% DV
Fiber 0.2g 1% DV
Sugar 2.3g 5% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 334.9mg 15% DV
Potassium 74mg 2% DV
Cholesterol 76.1mg 25% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 15.7mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 0.9mg 1% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg
Calcium 44.5mg 3% DV
Iron 0.8mg 4% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and let it rise, then shape the rolls and refrigerate them overnight. In the morning, allow them to come to room temperature and rise again before baking. This is a great way to save time on busy mornings.

What can I use instead of cake yeast?

You can use active dry yeast or instant yeast as substitutes for cake yeast. If using active dry yeast, dissolve it in warm milk before adding it to the mixture. Instant yeast can be mixed directly with the flour without prior activation.

How do I know when the rolls are done baking?

The rolls are done when they are lightly browned on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. Additionally, you can use a thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of about 190°F (88°C) when fully baked.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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