There is something truly magical about baking fresh rolls that fill your kitchen with warmth and irresistible aroma. This Orange Glazed Butterflake Rolls Recipe captures that magic perfectly, offering sweet, buttery layers kissed with a bright citrus glaze that elevates every bite. Whether you’re making breakfast for the family or impressing guests at a brunch, these rolls bring a comforting yet vibrant touch to your table that’s impossible to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, wholesome ingredients come together in this recipe to create the perfect balance of soft, fluffy texture and bright, zesty flavor. Each ingredient plays a special role, from the tender richness of butter to the lively punch of fresh orange zest and juice.
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy base that gives the rolls their soft structure.
- 1/4 cup sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to the dough.
- 2 tsp active dry yeast: The key leavening agent that makes the rolls rise beautifully.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances the flavor and balances sweetness.
- 1/2 cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C): Provides moisture and tenderness to the dough.
- 1/4 cup warm water (about 110°F / 43°C): Activates the yeast for a perfect rise.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened: Infuses richness into the dough’s texture.
- 2 large eggs: Adds structure, moisture, and a lovely golden color.
- 2 tbsp butter, melted (for brushing): Ensures a shiny, golden crust on top of the rolls.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Forms the sweet base of the orange glaze.
- 2 tbsp orange juice (freshly squeezed): Delivers fresh, citrus brightness to the glaze.
- 1 tsp orange zest: Intensifies the orange flavor with aromatic oils.
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the glaze.
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted: Creates a glossy finish and richness in the glaze.
How to Make Orange Glazed Butterflake Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by mixing warm water, warm milk, and sugar in a small bowl, then sprinkle the yeast on top. Allow this mixture to sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it gets beautifully frothy—this is the sign that your yeast is active and ready to work its magic. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt, then add the yeast mixture along with eggs and softened butter. Stir until the dough begins to form and then knead it on a floured surface for about 8 to 10 minutes, or use a stand mixer to do the hard work for you.
Step 2: First Rise
Shape your kneaded dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and set it aside in a warm spot for about an hour to an hour and a half, or until the dough doubles in size. This rise is crucial for that perfect light and airy texture we’re aiming for.
Step 3: Shape the Rolls
Once your dough has doubled, gently punch it down to release trapped air. Divide into 12 equal portions and roll each one into a smooth ball. Arrange these balls snugly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, close enough to create their signature butterflake layers while still allowing room for expansion. Cover again and let them rest for another 30 to 45 minutes until puffed and nearly doubled.
Step 4: Bake the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the tops generously with melted butter for a golden finish. Bake the rolls for 20 to 25 minutes, watching for that gorgeous golden-brown hue on top. Once baked, take them out and let them cool just slightly—warm rolls are about to meet a delicious orange glaze.
Step 5: Make the Orange Glaze and Serve
While baking, whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, zest, vanilla extract, and melted butter in a bowl until smooth and luscious. Drizzle this bright glaze over your warm rolls, allowing the layers to soak up all that citrusy sweetness. These Orange Glazed Butterflake Rolls Recipe beauties are best enjoyed warm and fresh from the oven, with that perfect balance of butter and orange zest in every bite.
How to Serve Orange Glazed Butterflake Rolls Recipe

Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of extra orange zest or a few thin orange slices on top adds a fresh, colorful touch that makes these rolls look as amazing as they taste. You could also dust lightly with powdered sugar for an extra festive finish.
Side Dishes
These rolls pair wonderfully with a variety of dishes—think creamy scrambled eggs, a crispy bacon side, or even fresh fruit salad to brighten the meal. Their buttery, citrus flavor is versatile enough to complement sweet or savory accompaniments.
Creative Ways to Present
For entertaining, serve the rolls warm in a beautiful basket lined with a bright cloth napkin that matches the orange theme. You can also plate individual rolls with a small pot of marmalade or honey for guests to add an extra drizzle if they desire. It makes the experience both interactive and delightful.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain their softness and freshness. If your kitchen tends to be dry, lightly cover the container with a clean kitchen towel before placing the lid on to preserve moisture.
Freezing
These rolls freeze beautifully. Wrap each cooled roll tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep well for up to three months. To thaw, leave them on the counter overnight or warm gently in the oven for a few minutes.
Reheating
To enjoy your Orange Glazed Butterflake Rolls Recipe at their best after storing, warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. This refreshes the soft buttery texture and brings back the freshly baked warmth that makes these rolls such a treat.
FAQs
Can I use refrigerated dough for this recipe?
While refrigerated dough can save time, making the dough fresh as described ensures the best texture and flavor, especially for that tender crumb and delicate orange glaze infusion.
What can I substitute if I don’t have fresh oranges?
You can use bottled orange juice and dried orange zest, but fresh juice and zest will always deliver a brighter, more vibrant flavor that truly makes this recipe shine.
How do I know when the rolls are fully baked?
Look for a golden brown color on top and a hollow sound when tapping the rolls gently. Internal temperature should reach around 190°F (88°C) if using a thermometer.
Can I make the dough in a stand mixer?
Absolutely! Using a stand mixer with a dough hook can make kneading easier and faster. Mix on low speed for 5-6 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
Is it okay to brush the rolls with butter after baking instead of before?
Brushing before baking helps create a beautiful golden crust, but you can also brush them with melted butter immediately after baking to add extra richness and shine.
Final Thoughts
Trying the Orange Glazed Butterflake Rolls Recipe is like inviting a little sunshine into your kitchen and your day. With its irresistible combination of tender, buttery layers and sweet, tangy glaze, these rolls are sure to become a beloved favorite. I can’t wait for you to make them and taste all the love baked inside. Happy baking and even happier eating!
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Orange Glazed Butterflake Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Orange Glazed Butterflake Rolls are soft, fluffy, and bursting with buttery goodness complemented by a bright, citrusy orange glaze. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat, these homemade rolls combine tender, yeast-leavened dough with a luscious orange-scented icing that soaks gently into each layer.
Ingredients
Dough
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 tsp active dry yeast
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
- 1/4 cup warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
For Brushing
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
Orange Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp orange juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tsp orange zest
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a small bowl, combine warm water, warm milk, and sugar. Sprinkle active dry yeast over the top and stir gently to dissolve. Let the mixture rest for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Add the frothy yeast mixture, eggs, and softened butter. Use a wooden spoon to stir until the dough begins forming.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. Alternatively, knead using a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook on low speed for 5-6 minutes.
- First Rise: Shape the dough into a ball and place into a greased bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size.
- Shape the Rolls: Punch down the risen dough and divide into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball and place them evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arranging close together but not touching.
- Second Rise: Cover the baking dish with a kitchen towel and let the rolls rise for 30-45 minutes until puffed and nearly doubled in size.
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the tops of the risen rolls with melted butter to ensure a golden, glossy finish.
- Bake the Rolls: Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown on top. Remove from oven and let the rolls cool slightly in the pan.
- Make the Orange Glaze: While the rolls bake, whisk together powdered sugar, fresh orange juice, orange zest, vanilla extract, and melted butter in a small bowl until smooth and well combined.
- Glaze the Rolls: Drizzle the orange glaze generously over the warm rolls, allowing it to soak into the layers and add a bright citrus flavor.
- Serve: Serve the butterflake rolls warm or at room temperature for a deliciously soft and flavorful treat enjoyed any time of day.
Notes
- Ensure liquids are warm but not hot to properly activate the yeast without killing it.
- Kneading time is key to develop gluten—don’t rush this step for best texture.
- Rising times may vary depending on room temperature; dough should at least double in size.
- Use fresh orange juice and zest for the most vibrant glaze flavor.
- Brush with melted butter before baking for a beautiful golden crust.
- Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.

