There is something irresistibly heartwarming about freshly baked rolls infused with the bright zest of citrus and the comforting tang of sour cream. This Orange Sour Cream Rolls Recipe combines those flavors into soft, tender rolls with a luscious orange glaze that makes every bite a delight. Whether you’re looking for the perfect brunch centerpiece or a sweet treat to brighten your morning, these rolls bring a burst of orange goodness wrapped in buttery softness that everyone will adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its thoughtfully simple ingredients, each playing a crucial role in creating the perfect texture, flavor, and aroma. From the creamy sour cream that tenderizes the dough to the lively orange zest that adds vibrant notes, every element is essential.
- Active dry yeast: Helps the dough rise, creating a light, fluffy texture.
- Warm water (about 110°F): Activates the yeast to get the dough rising beautifully.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and feeds the yeast for fermentation.
- Sour cream (room temperature): Adds moisture and a subtle tang that keeps rolls tender.
- Unsalted butter (melted and softened): Enriches the dough and the filling with luscious richness.
- Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- Egg: Binds ingredients and contributes to a soft, golden crumb.
- All-purpose flour: Provides structure to the dough when kneaded.
- Orange zest: Infuses the filling and glaze with fresh citrus fragrance.
- Powdered sugar: Basis for the sweet, glossy orange glaze.
- Fresh orange juice: Adds bright flavor and moisturizes the glaze perfectly.
How to Make Orange Sour Cream Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Start by dissolving the active dry yeast in warm water with a pinch of sugar. This wakes up the yeast and ensures your dough will rise nicely. Once it’s foamy, you know it’s ready to work its magic in the dough.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
Add sugar, room temperature sour cream, melted butter, salt, and egg to the yeast mixture. Stir well to combine all these lovely flavors. Gradually add flour until you get a soft, slightly sticky dough that will be perfect for kneading.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 to 7 minutes. This step develops the gluten, giving your rolls a soft yet elastic texture. When smooth and elastic, place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling and Shape Rolls
Mix together sugar and fresh orange zest for that signature tang. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it into a 10 by 14-inch rectangle. Spread the softened butter evenly, then sprinkle the orange sugar mixture over the top. Roll tightly from the long edge and slice into 12 even rolls.
Step 5: Second Rise and Bake
Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch pan, cover again, and let them rise for another 30 to 45 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the rolls for 20 to 25 minutes or until they turn a beautiful golden brown.
Step 6: Make the Orange Glaze
Whisk together powdered sugar, fresh orange juice, and zest until smooth and pourable. Drizzle this vibrant orange glaze over the warm rolls just before serving to add a fresh, sweet finish to your creation.
How to Serve Orange Sour Cream Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra pop, sprinkle finely chopped candied orange peel or a tiny pinch of cinnamon on top of the glaze. These simple touches elevate presentation and add a little extra flavor burst that guests adore.
Side Dishes
These rolls are perfect alongside a steaming cup of coffee or a fresh fruit salad to contrast the sweet, creamy rolls with juicy brightness. A dollop of whipped cream or a spread of cream cheese can be wonderful too for a richer treat.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the rolls stacked on a tiered platter for brunch or arranged in a basket lined with a cloth napkin for a cozy gathering. You could also slice one in half and layer with berry preserves for a fun twist when sharing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps the rolls soft and fresh to enjoy anytime.
Freezing
To freeze, place cooled rolls in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw at room temperature overnight and reheat gently before glazing.
Reheating
Warm the rolls in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes or microwave briefly until soft and slightly warm. Then add the orange glaze fresh to bring back that irresistible shine and citrusy zing.
FAQs
Can I use regular cream instead of sour cream?
Sour cream adds a distinctive tang and tenderness to the rolls that regular cream lacks. For best results, stick with sour cream or try Greek yogurt as an alternative.
Is fresh orange juice necessary for the glaze?
Fresh orange juice offers the brightest, most natural citrus flavor. Bottled juice can work in a pinch, but fresh really lifts the glaze’s taste to the next level.
Can I make these rolls vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the egg with a flax egg, use plant-based yogurt for the sour cream, and swap butter with a vegan alternative. Keep in mind texture and flavor might vary slightly.
How long do the rolls keep fresh after baking?
Enjoy them fresh on the day of baking for the best texture and flavor. Stored properly at room temperature, they stay great for 1 to 2 days.
Can this recipe be doubled?
Absolutely! Doubling the recipe works well, just be sure you have an adequately sized bowl and baking pan to accommodate the larger dough volume.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a sweet, bright, and comforting baked good that feels like a warm hug, you absolutely must try this Orange Sour Cream Rolls Recipe. The tender dough, zingy orange filling, and luscious glaze come together to create a truly memorable treat that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones. Trust me, once you make these rolls, they’ll quickly become a staple for your weekend mornings and special occasions alike!
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Orange Sour Cream Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes (plus 1.5 hours rising)
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Soft and tangy Orange Sour Cream Rolls featuring a moist dough enriched with sour cream and butter, filled with a zesty orange-sugar mixture, baked to golden perfection, and topped with a sweet and citrusy orange glaze. Ideal for brunch or holiday mornings, these rolls combine comforting textures with bright flavors for a delightful treat.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- ½ cup warm water (about 110°F)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup sour cream (room temperature)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg
- 2 ¾ to 3 cups all-purpose flour
For the Filling:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons orange zest
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
For the Orange Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- ½ teaspoon orange zest
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a large bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in warm water with a pinch of sugar. Let this mixture sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active and ready to use.
- Prepare Dough: Add sugar, sour cream, melted butter, salt, and the egg to the yeast mixture. Mix everything together. Gradually stir in the all-purpose flour until a soft dough forms.
- Knead Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5–7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. This step develops gluten for a soft roll texture.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
- Prepare Filling: In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and orange zest. This mixture will add a bright citrus flavor to the rolls.
- Shape Rolls: Punch down the risen dough to release air. Roll it out into a 10×14-inch rectangle. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the orange sugar mixture on top.
- Roll and Slice: Roll the dough tightly from the long side to form a log. Slice into 12 equal rolls with a sharp knife.
- Second Rise: Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Cover them and let rise again for 30–45 minutes to allow the rolls to puff up.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes or until they are golden brown on top and cooked through.
- Make Glaze: While the rolls cool slightly, whisk together the powdered sugar, fresh orange juice, and orange zest until smooth.
- Glaze and Serve: Drizzle the orange glaze over the warm rolls before serving to add a sweet and tangy finishing touch.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a splash of vanilla extract to the glaze.
- These rolls can be made ahead of time and reheated before glazing to enjoy fresh rolls any time.
- Perfect option for brunch gatherings or festive holiday mornings.
