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
Scale
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.
