If you love the idea of soft, buttery rolls infused with a bright citrus twist, then you are going to fall head over heels for this delightful Orange Glazed Butterflake Rolls Recipe. These rolls boast layers that literally fan out like delicate petals packed with buttery goodness and a shimmering orange glaze that adds just the right touch of sweetness and zing. Whether you’re treating yourself at breakfast, impressing guests at brunch, or simply craving something special to accompany your meal, these rolls are a warm, irresistible hug on a plate that you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Orange Glazed Butterflake Rolls Recipe comes together with a handful of simple ingredients, each playing a crucial role in creating those tender layers and that luscious glaze that sings with citrus brightness. From the yeast that gives the dough its airy rise to the fresh orange zest that provides a fragrant pop, every component matters.
- Active dry yeast: vital for making the dough rise beautifully and creating that perfect fluffy texture.
- Warm water (110°F): helps activate the yeast gently without killing it, setting the stage for a great rise.
- Warm milk: adds subtle richness and moisture for tender, soft rolls.
- Granulated sugar: sweetens the dough and feeds the yeast for a lovely golden crust.
- Salt: enhances flavor and balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Egg: enriches the dough, contributing to its structure and golden color.
- Unsalted butter (melted and for brushing): infuses richness and helps create those signature flaky layers.
- All-purpose flour: the foundation that gives the dough its structure and chew.
- Powdered sugar: smooths out the glaze and brings sweetness without graininess.
- Fresh orange juice: delivers natural citrus brightness and moisture to the glaze.
- Orange zest: packs in extra aromatic oils that brighten the glaze with fresh, tangy notes.
How to Make Orange Glazed Butterflake Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Start by dissolving the active dry yeast in the warm water. This step wakes up the yeast, producing a foamy surface that signals it’s ready to work its magic. It only takes about 5 to 10 minutes, but if you see that foam, you know your rolls are off to a great start.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the warm milk, sugar, salt, egg, and melted butter. This blend forms a rich, flavorful base for your dough. Stir in the foamy yeast mixture gently, combining everything thoroughly without knocking out the air you just created.
Step 3: Form and Knead the Dough
Gradually add the all-purpose flour, stirring until a soft dough forms. Then, turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for 5 to 7 minutes until smooth and elastic. The kneading develops the gluten, which ensures your rolls will be tender yet sturdy enough to hold those layered pockets of butter.
Step 4: First Rise
Place your dough in a greased bowl and cover it, letting it rest in a warm spot for about an hour or until it doubles in size. This rise is crucial—it creates those light, airy textures that define butterflake rolls.
Step 5: Shape the Rolls
Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down to release the gases. Roll it out into a large 12×18-inch rectangle on a floured surface. Brush the surface with melted butter, then cut the dough into 2-inch wide strips. Stack 3 to 4 strips on top of one another, then cut into 2-inch squares. This layering is what creates the beautiful “butterflake” effect.
Step 6: Arrange the Rolls and Second Rise
Place the stacked squares upright in a greased muffin tin, so the layers fan out like petals. Cover them again and let rise for another 30 to 40 minutes. This second rise ensures those layers separate perfectly in the oven, creating a visually stunning and delicious roll.
Step 7: Bake and Glaze
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Bake the rolls for 12 to 15 minutes until they turn a golden brown. Meanwhile, prepare the glaze by whisking powdered sugar, fresh orange juice, and orange zest together. As soon as your rolls come out of the oven, drizzle the warm orange glaze generously over each one. The glaze will soak into the layers, making every bite shine with citrusy sweetness.
How to Serve Orange Glazed Butterflake Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
For a special finishing touch, sprinkle a tiny bit of freshly grated orange zest on top of the glazed rolls right before serving. It enhances the appearance and boosts that fresh citrus aroma, making your rolls look as amazing as they taste.
Side Dishes
These rolls pair spectacularly with a hot cup of coffee or tea for breakfast or brunch. They also complement savory dishes such as scrambled eggs, honey-glazed ham, or roasted vegetables. The sweet and buttery layers balance well against salty or hearty mains.
Creative Ways to Present
For an eye-catching brunch centerpiece, arrange the rolls on a rustic wooden board or a colorful cake stand. You can put a small bowl of extra orange glaze on the side for guests who want a little more drizzle. Another fun idea is to serve them warm with whipped mascarpone or cream cheese spread, offering an extra creamy contrast to the bright glaze.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Orange Glazed Butterflake Rolls stay soft and delicious when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Avoid refrigeration as it can dry them out, but warming them gently before serving will restore their fresh-baked charm.
Freezing
You can freeze the unbaked shaped rolls before the second rise by wrapping the muffin tin tightly with plastic wrap and then foil, freezing for up to three months. When ready to bake, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, let them come to room temperature, complete the second rise, and bake as usual.
Reheating
To enjoy leftover rolls warm, heat them in a 300°F oven for about 8 to 10 minutes wrapped loosely in foil to prevent burning. Alternatively, microwave for 15 to 20 seconds covered with a damp paper towel to recreate that soft, just-baked texture.
FAQs
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, instant yeast can be substituted, but reduce the warm water slightly and mix the yeast directly into the flour to avoid dissolving first. The rising times may be a bit shorter too.
Is it necessary to use fresh orange juice and zest in the glaze?
Using fresh orange juice and zest is highly recommended because it gives the glaze vibrant flavor and freshness that bottled juice can’t match, making the rolls taste truly special.
Can I make the dough in a stand mixer?
Absolutely! Using a stand mixer with a dough hook makes kneading easier and faster, just be sure not to over-knead. Stop once the dough is smooth and elastic to keep the texture just right.
What’s the best way to achieve the flaky layers?
The key is brushing melted butter between the dough layers before stacking and cutting. This physically separates the layers during baking, creating that signature butterflake effect.
Can I add other flavors to the glaze?
Definitely! You can experiment with a splash of vanilla extract, a pinch of cinnamon, or even a few drops of orange extract to enhance or alter the flavor to your liking, though the classic fresh orange glaze is a true favorite.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about these Orange Glazed Butterflake Rolls Recipe that makes the kitchen smell like happiness and turns any meal into a celebration. With their soft layers, buttery richness, and bright citrus glaze, these rolls are sure to become a loved staple in your baking repertoire. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and share this delicious joy with friends and family—you’ll be creating warm memories with every bite!
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Orange Glazed Butterflake Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls 1x
- Category: Bread, Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Orange Glazed Butterflake Rolls are tender, flaky sweet yeast rolls with a delightful citrus twist. These luscious rolls feature layers brushed with butter and are finished with a bright orange glaze, making them perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a special treat any time of day.
Ingredients
Dough
- 1 package (1/4 oz) active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup warm water (110°F)
- 3/4 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (for brushing between layers)
Orange Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
Instructions
- Activate yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in warm water at 110°F and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, granulated sugar, salt, egg, and melted butter. Stir in the foamy yeast mixture thoroughly.
- Add flour and knead dough: Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- First rise: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and allow it to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
- Shape the dough: Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a 12×18-inch rectangle. Brush the surface with melted butter.
- Cut and layer: Cut the dough into 2-inch wide strips, then stack 3–4 strips on top of each other. Cut the stacked strips into 2-inch squares, creating layers.
- Prepare for second rise: Place the stacked squares upright in a greased muffin tin so the layers fan out. Cover and let them rise again for 30–40 minutes until puffy.
- Bake the rolls: Preheat the oven to 375°F and bake the rolls for 12–15 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Prepare the glaze: While the rolls bake, whisk together powdered sugar, fresh orange juice, and orange zest to make a smooth glaze.
- Glaze and serve: Drizzle the warm rolls with the orange glaze and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- These rolls are best served warm and fresh to enjoy their tender flakiness and vibrant orange flavor.
- For a stronger orange flavor, add ½ teaspoon of orange extract to the glaze mixture.
- The dough can be prepared ahead of time and chilled overnight before shaping and baking to save time.
