Orange Sweet Rolls
Sweet and tangy orange-flavored rolls with a citrus sugar topping, perfect for breakfast or brunch, appealing to those who love bright, fresh baked goods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift dry ingredients (flour, sugar, baking powder, salt) together in a bowl.
- Cut in shortening until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Beat egg, then add orange juice to the egg.
- Add the egg-orange juice mixture to the dry ingredients.
- Blend with a fork until the dry ingredients are moistened.
- Turn out the dough onto a lightly floured board.
- Knead the dough for 30 seconds.
- Roll the dough into a rectangular shape about 1/4-inch thick.
- Sprinkle orange sugar evenly over the surface.
- Roll up the dough jelly-roll style and slice into 1-inch pieces.
- Place each slice, cut side down, on a greased rind mold.
- Bake in a 425°F oven for 15 minutes.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of orange zest to the dough. If you want to reduce sugar, you can cut down on the added sugar in the filling or use a sugar substitute. Ensure your shortening is at room temperature for easier blending. For a twist, try using whole wheat flour for part of the all-purpose flour for added nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
These orange sweet rolls are delightful served warm with a drizzle of icing or a light dusting of powdered sugar. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect breakfast or afternoon snack. They also make a lovely accompaniment to brunch, especially with dishes like Eggplant Jeanette or fresh fruit.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover orange sweet rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, place them in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange Sweet Rolls contains roughly 289 calories, with 5g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1281mg per serving (56% of the Daily Value).
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 use fresh orange juice instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! Fresh orange juice will enhance the flavor of your sweet rolls and make them taste even better. Just be sure to strain the juice to remove any pulp if you prefer a smoother texture in your rolls.
What can I use instead of shortening?
If you prefer not to use shortening, unsalted butter or coconut oil can be great substitutes. Both will add a rich flavor to the rolls. If using butter, ensure it is chilled and cut into small pieces for easier incorporation into the flour.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time! Prepare the dough and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before rolling and baking. Just allow it to come to room temperature before rolling out to ensure it’s easier to work with.
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).