Orange Cinnamon Rolls

Certainly! Here’s the full recipe for Orange Cinnamon Rolls:

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

  • 1 package active dry yeast
  • ¾ cup warm water
  • 1½ cups warm milk
  • ½ cup sugar, divided
  • 1½ teaspoons salt
  • 4½ cups flour, divided
  • ¼ cup shortening melted

For the Orange Icing:

  • 4½ tablespoons butter, softened
  • 1½ tablespoons orange zest
  • 3 tablespoons orange juice
  • 2¼ cups powdered sugar

Directions:

  1. Prepare the Dough:
    • In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add milk, ¼ cup of sugar, and salt. Stir in 3 cups of flour. The mixture will be runny. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
  2. Add Sugar and Shortening:
    • Stir in the remaining ¼ cup of sugar and melted shortening. Add the remaining 1½ cups of flour. The dough will still be wet; do not be tempted to add more flour. Let it rise until double, about 1 hour.
  3. Prepare Orange Icing:
    • In a medium bowl, cream the butter for the icing. Add orange zest, orange juice, and powdered sugar. Beat until well incorporated.
  4. Shape and Fill the Rolls:
    • After the second rise, dump the dough on a well-floured surface and divide it in half. With a floured rolling pin, roll each half into a large rectangle, about 18 inches long. Spread each rectangle with ⅓ of the prepared orange icing. Roll up into a log from the long side. Cut each roll into 9 sections (about 2 inches each).
  5. Final Rise:
    • Place the cut rolls into a greased 9×13-inch pan. Let them rise until doubled.
  6. Preheat Oven:
    • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
  7. Bake:
    • After the final rise, bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Allow them to cool slightly before frosting with the remaining icing.
  8. Optional Freezing Instructions:
    • If freezing, allow the rolls to cool completely before cutting them apart and placing them in zip-top bags. You can fit about 9 rolls in a gallon-sized zip-top bag.
  9. To Reheat:
    • Remove individual rolls from the freezer and reheat in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds per roll. The length of time in the microwave will vary based on the strength of your microwave and the size of the roll.
  10. Enjoy!
    • Warm up these delightful Orange Cinnamon Rolls and enjoy the sweet, buttery goodness with a touch of citrus flavor.

Certainly! Here are some popular questions and their answers related to Orange Cinnamon Rolls:

  1. Q: Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast in the Orange Cinnamon Rolls recipe?
    • A: Yes, you can use instant yeast as a substitute for active dry yeast. Use an equal amount and skip the step of dissolving it in warm water.
  2. Q: Can I use a bread machine to make the dough for Orange Cinnamon Rolls?
    • A: Yes, you can use a bread machine for the dough-making process. Follow your bread machine’s instructions for mixing and rising the dough.
  3. Q: Is it okay to use margarine instead of butter in the orange icing?
    • A: While butter adds a rich flavor, you can use margarine in the icing if preferred. However, for the best taste, butter is recommended.
  4. Q: How do I store leftover Orange Cinnamon Rolls?
    • A: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. If you need to store them longer, freeze the rolls and reheat as needed.
  5. Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight?
    • A: Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time, refrigerate it overnight, and then proceed with the rolling and baking steps the next day.
  6. Q: Can I make Orange Cinnamon Rolls without orange zest?
    • A: Yes, you can omit the orange zest, but it adds a delightful citrus flavor. Consider using a bit of orange extract if you don’t have zest.
  7. Q: What can I use if I don’t have an oven-safe pan for baking?
    • A: If you don’t have an oven-safe pan, you can use a glass or ceramic baking dish for the rolls. Just make sure it’s of appropriate size.
  8. Q: Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe for a less sweet version?
    • A: Yes, you can adjust the sugar in both the dough and the icing to suit your taste preferences. Keep in mind that it will alter the sweetness of the final product.
  9. Q: Can I make Orange Cinnamon Rolls without cream cheese frosting?
    • A: While the cream cheese frosting adds a rich and tangy flavor, you can make a simple powdered sugar glaze or omit the frosting altogether if desired.
  10. Q: How do I reheat frozen Orange Cinnamon Rolls?
    • A: To reheat frozen rolls, remove them from the freezer and microwave for about 30-45 seconds per roll. Adjust the time based on your microwave’s strength and the size of the roll.

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