There’s something undeniably uplifting about the vibrant hue of blood oranges, especially when they’re transformed into deliciously soft sweet rolls. The moment you open the oven door and catch that fragrant aroma of freshly baked dough mingling with the zesty sweetness of blood oranges, it feels like a celebration has begun right in your kitchen. After a long week filled with mundane meals, I found myself longing for something fresh and exciting, and these Blood Orange Sweet Rolls were the unexpected delight that transformed our weekend brunch into a lovely experience.
From the playful swirl of orange zest to the warm, comforting embrace of cinnamon, these rolls not only look stunning but are also incredibly easy to make—perfect for both experienced chefs and home cooks eager to impress their families. Whether you’re unwinding after a stressful day or planning a festive gathering, these rolls promise to bring joy and a splash of color to your table. So, let’s dive into the delightful world of blood orange, and elevate your baking game with this crowd-pleasing recipe!
Why will you love Blood Orange Sweet Rolls?
Vibrant Flavor: The zesty blood orange elevates these rolls to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Easy Process: With simple steps, anyone can whip up these delightful treats, making it perfect for a relaxed baking session.
Perfectly Sweet: The glaze adds a delightful sweetness that complements the warm, spiced roll.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for brunch, these rolls are sure to impress your family and friends.
Versatile: Enjoy them for breakfast or as a dessert, and pair them with coffee or tea for a delightful treat.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough in advance, allowing for a time-saving option when you have guests over. If you’re looking for more delicious variations, be sure to try some of my other sweet roll recipes!
Blood Orange Sweet Rolls Ingredients
For the Dough
• Warm Water – 1 cup helps activate the yeast for fluffy rolls.
• Butter – 4 tablespoons adds richness to the dough.
• Instant Dry Milk – 2 tablespoons enhances the rolls’ texture and flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour – 4 cups provides the structure needed for the rolls.
• Yeast – 2 teaspoons is essential for that perfect rise.
• Salt – 1 teaspoon balances the sweetness of the dough.
• Large Egg – 1 adds moisture and richness to the rolls.
• Sugar – 1/4 cup sweetens the dough for a lovely flavor.
For the Filling
• Blood Orange Zest – 2 tablespoons infuses a vibrant citrusy flavor into the rolls.
• Granulated Sugar – 1/2 cup sweetens the filling, complementing the blood orange.
• Cinnamon – 1 teaspoon adds a warm, spicy note that enhances the overall taste.
• Melted Butter – 4 tablespoons brushed on the dough helps the filling stick.
For the Glaze
• Juice of One Blood Orange – captures the essence of blood orange in the glaze.
• Regular Orange Juice – 1/4 cup adds extra citrus brightness to the glaze.
• Powdered Sugar – 2 cups creates a sweet, smooth finish for the rolls.
These Blood Orange Sweet Rolls are not just a treat for the taste buds; they’re also a feast for the eyes!
How to Make Blood Orange Sweet Rolls
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Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix warm water, butter, instant dry milk, all-purpose flour, yeast, salt, beaten egg, and sugar. Knead until smooth, then cover and let it rise for 1 hour until doubled in size.
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Mix Filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together the blood orange zest, granulated sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.
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Roll Out Dough: On a floured surface, gently roll out the dough into a ¼ inch thick rectangle. Brush it generously with melted butter for added flavor.
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Add Filling: Sprinkle the orange-infused sugar mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough, making sure to cover every inch, then roll the dough tightly into a log shape.
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Slice Rolls: Using dental floss for clean cuts, slice the log into 9-10 equally sized rolls to ensure even baking.
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Second Rise: Place the rolls in a greased 9×13 pan, cover them again, and allow them to rise for another 30 minutes until puffy and soft.
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Preheat Oven: While they rise, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This temperature is crucial for achieving golden brown perfection.
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Bake Rolls: Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fragrant. Keep an eye on them for that beautiful color.
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Prepare Glaze: While the rolls are baking, mix together the blood orange juice, regular orange juice, and powdered sugar until smooth and velvety—this glaze will add a perfect finishing touch.
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Glaze Rolls: Once the rolls have cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze generously over each roll for a sweet, tangy finish.
Optional: Serve warm for a delightful treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Blood Orange Sweet Rolls
Room Temperature: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their delicious flavor and texture.
Fridge: If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven to enjoy their softness again.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the rolls by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. They’ll last for up to 2 months—perfect for a sweet treat anytime!
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a warm oven or microwave for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
What to Serve with Blood Orange Sweet Rolls?
There’s nothing quite like a warm roll to brighten your meal, especially when it’s infused with the vibrant flavor of blood orange.
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Coffee or Tea: A cup of freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea perfectly complements the sweet, zesty flavors, making every bite a warm hug for your taste buds.
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Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits will elevate your brunch spread, offering a sweet contrast to the warm, sticky rolls.
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Greek Yogurt with Honey: Creamy yogurt drizzled with honey provides a smooth counterpoint, enriching your breakfast while adding a dash of protein.
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Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs add a savory touch to your brunch table, balancing out the sweetness and making for a satisfying meal.
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Scrambled Tofu: For a plant-based option, scrambled tofu seasoned with spices can mirror egg flavors while adding a robust protein source next to these sweet rolls.
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Lemonade or Orange Juice: A bright, citrusy drink makes the perfect pairing, enhancing the blood orange flavor and refreshing your palate.
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Cinnamon Coffee Cake: If you’re looking for additional sweetness, a slice of cinnamon coffee cake beside your rolls will create a cozy brunch experience, bathing your taste buds in spice and joy.
Serve these delightful combinations for a truly memorable gathering that everyone will remember fondly!
Make Ahead Options
These Blood Orange Sweet Rolls are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy their delightful flavors with minimal effort during busy mornings or special gatherings! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the first few steps, then refrigerate it after the first rise—this helps develop the flavors without compromising the texture. Alternatively, you can slice the rolls and arrange them in the pan, then cover and refrigerate them for up to 3 days, allowing for a simple bake when ready. Just allow the rolls to come to room temperature for 30 minutes, preheat your oven, and bake them until golden brown. With this make-ahead option, savor warm, zesty rolls without any last-minute fuss!
Blood Orange Sweet Rolls Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing these rolls to suit your palate or dietary needs.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these rolls celiac-friendly. They’ll still be wonderfully soft and delicious!
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Dairy-Free: Use almond milk or coconut milk in place of warm water, and replace butter with coconut oil for a rich, dairy-free option.
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Cinnamon Twist: Add an extra tablespoon of cinnamon to the filling for a warm, spiced flavor that hints of cozy autumn evenings. A sprinkle of nutmeg could also be delightful!
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Berry Surprise: Incorporate fresh or frozen berries like raspberries or blueberries into the filling for a burst of fruity flavor that complements the citrus beautifully. Just fold them in gently before rolling!
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Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans into the filling for extra texture and a nutty taste that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of blood oranges.
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Heat it Up: For a kick, sprinkle in a little cayenne or chili powder into the sugar mixture—what a surprising, zesty twist on this classic treat!
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Zest Overload: Feel free to mix citrus zests; try adding lemon or lime alongside blood orange for a citrus medley that invigorates the taste. Each bite will be a radiant zest explosion!
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Vegan Delight: Substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) and use plant-based butter to make this recipe completely vegan-friendly.
By experimenting with these variations, you can create your own signature version of these delightful rolls that’s sure to become a new family favorite!
Expert Tips for Blood Orange Sweet Rolls
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Yeast Activation: Make sure your water is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly. If it’s too hot, it can kill the yeast and prevent your rolls from rising.
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Kneading Technique: Knead your dough until it’s smooth and elastic; this helps develop gluten for a better texture. Don’t skip this step for fluffy rolls!
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature for better incorporation into the dough, promoting even baking.
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Rolling Precision: Roll out your dough evenly to about ¼ inch; uneven thickness can lead to inconsistent baking. You want all your rolls to be golden brown and soft!
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Glazing Timing: Apply the glaze while the rolls are still warm to help it set beautifully and soak into the rolls, enhancing the overall flavor of your Blood Orange Sweet Rolls.
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Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Reheat briefly in the microwave for a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste!
Blood Orange Sweet Rolls Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe blood oranges for the recipe?
Absolutely! Look for blood oranges that have a deep, vibrant color without any dark spots or blemishes. The skin should feel firm, and the fruit should feel heavy for its size, indicating juiciness. If possible, give it a gentle squeeze; it should yield slightly, indicating ripeness.
What’s the best way to store leftover Blood Orange Sweet Rolls?
After you’ve enjoyed these delightful rolls, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for about 2 days. If you want to keep them fresher for longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Always reheat them in the microwave or oven to recapture that soft, fresh-baked texture!
Can I freeze Blood Orange Sweet Rolls? How?
Definitely! To freeze, allow the rolls to cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. This double wrapping helps protect them from freezer burn. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a warm oven or microwave. Enjoy that deliciousness as if they were just baked!
What should I do if my rolls don’t rise enough?
Very! If your rolls don’t rise properly, it could be due to expired yeast or water that’s too hot or too cold. Always make sure your yeast is fresh and activate it in warm water (around 110°F or 43°C) before mixing it with the other ingredients. If your dough seems too sticky or dry after kneading, add a bit more flour or water gradually until you achieve a smooth consistency. Patience is key with rising times—especially in cooler environments!
Are Blood Orange Sweet Rolls suitable for people with allergies?
Yes! If you have a specific allergy such as to eggs or dairy, you can substitute with egg replacers or dairy-free butter and milk alternatives. Always check ingredient labels to ensure all items meet your dietary requirements. As for pets, these rolls contain sugar and butter, so it’s best to keep them away from our furry friends.
Irresistible Blood Orange Sweet Rolls for a Zesty Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, mix warm water, butter, instant dry milk, all-purpose flour, yeast, salt, beaten egg, and sugar. Knead until smooth, then cover and let it rise for 1 hour until doubled in size.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the blood orange zest, granulated sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.
- On a floured surface, gently roll out the dough into a ¼ inch thick rectangle. Brush it generously with melted butter for added flavor.
- Sprinkle the orange-infused sugar mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough, making sure to cover every inch, then roll the dough tightly into a log shape.
- Using dental floss for clean cuts, slice the log into 9-10 equally sized rolls to ensure even baking.
- Place the rolls in a greased 9x13 pan, cover them again, and allow them to rise for another 30 minutes until puffy and soft.
- While they rise, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This temperature is crucial for achieving golden brown perfection.
- Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fragrant.
- While the rolls are baking, mix together the blood orange juice, regular orange juice, and powdered sugar until smooth and velvety.
- Once the rolls have cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze generously over each roll for a sweet, tangy finish.