If you’re craving a breakfast treat that bursts with bright, citrusy flavor and boasts a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture, this Orange Sour Cream Rolls Recipe is just what you need. Imagine soft, fluffy rolls swirled with luscious orange marmalade and kissed by the subtle tang of sour cream—each bite feels like sunshine on a plate. These rolls are delightfully fragrant with orange zest and finished with a glossy glaze that makes them as beautiful as they are delicious. Whether you’re serving them for a special brunch or just want a sweet start to your day, this recipe will quickly become a beloved favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that come together effortlessly to create a roll that’s soft, flavorful, and perfectly sweet. Each ingredient plays an important role: the yeast ensures a lovely rise, sour cream adds moisture and tenderness, and the orange components bring bright flavor and fragrance.
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast: This is what makes the dough rise beautifully, giving the rolls a soft, airy texture.
- ¼ cup warm water (110°F): The perfect temperature to activate the yeast without killing it.
- ¾ cup sour cream: Adds richness and a subtle tang that keeps the rolls tender and moist.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough just right without overpowering the citrus notes.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (softened): Brings richness and helps achieve a tender crumb.
- 1 large egg: Adds structure and richness to the dough.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all flavors.
- 2 ¾ to 3 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the dough, with just the right amount for softness.
- 1 tablespoon orange zest: Bursts of fresh citrus oils that elevate the aroma and flavor.
- ½ cup orange marmalade: The sweet, tangy filling that makes every bite a delight.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing): Adds a shiny finish and richness after baking.
- ½ cup powdered sugar: For the sweet glaze that dresses the rolls beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon orange juice (for glaze): Gives the glaze a fresh, citrusy zing.
How to Make Orange Sour Cream Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Start by dissolving your active dry yeast in warm water around 110°F; this gentle heat wakes up the yeast so it can work its magic. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it’s foamy on top. This foamy sign means your yeast is alive and ready to help your rolls rise beautifully.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients and Sugar
In a large bowl, mix together the sour cream, granulated sugar, softened butter, egg, and salt. These ingredients create a rich and flavorful base for the dough. Once combined, add in the foamy yeast mixture and stir to blend everything evenly. This mixture will become the heart of your dough, promising tender rolls with delightful flavor.
Step 3: Add Flour and Knead the Dough
Gradually incorporate the flour, about a cup at a time, mixing as you go until a soft dough forms. The dough will be slightly sticky but manageable. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 to 7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. This kneading develops gluten, giving the rolls their wonderful chew and structure.
Step 4: First Rise
Place your dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size. This rise is key to light, fluffy rolls that practically melt in your mouth.
Step 5: Shape and Fill the Rolls
After the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release any air bubbles. Roll the dough out into a 10×14-inch rectangle. Spread the orange marmalade evenly over the surface, and sprinkle the orange zest on top for that extra burst of citrus aroma. Then, roll the dough tightly from one long side to the other, creating a beautiful spiral filled with sweet, zesty orange goodness.
Step 6: Slice and Second Rise
Cut the rolled dough into 12 even slices and arrange them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let the rolls rise a second time for 30 minutes. This second proofing ensures soft, fluffy rolls bursting with flavor once baked.
Step 7: Bake and Glaze
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the rolls for 20 to 25 minutes, until they’re golden brown and irresistible. When they come out of the oven, brush the warm rolls with melted butter for a shiny, rich finish. Then, whip up a simple glaze by mixing powdered sugar with fresh orange juice and drizzle it generously over the cooled rolls. This glaze adds the perfect sweet-tangy touch to your Orange Sour Cream Rolls Recipe.
How to Serve Orange Sour Cream Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate these already stunning rolls, consider topping them with thin orange slices or a light sprinkling of finely chopped pistachios. The citrus slices tie nicely into the orange theme, and pistachios add a delightful crunch and color contrast that will impress your guests.
Side Dishes
These rolls pair beautifully with a steaming cup of coffee or freshly brewed tea, making for an indulgent breakfast or brunch experience. You can also serve them alongside fresh fruit salad or a light yogurt parfait to balance out the sweetness and add some freshness to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive gathering, arrange the Orange Sour Cream Rolls Recipe on a decorative platter lining the bottom with fresh orange slices or edible flowers. Another fun idea is to serve each roll with a dab of whipped cream or mascarpone on the side for extra indulgence. You can even turn them into mini sandwiches by slicing the rolls horizontally and adding a spread of cream cheese filling.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover rolls, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them soft and fresh, perfect for a quick breakfast or snack the next day without losing any of that delicious orange flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze these rolls before or after baking. To freeze before baking, follow through with the first rise, shape the rolls, then freeze them laid out in the pan, covered with plastic wrap and foil. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed. For frozen baked rolls, wrap each roll individually and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.
Reheating
To reheat, warm rolls in a preheated oven at 300°F for 10 to 15 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, microwave them for about 20 seconds if you’re in a hurry, then add a quick brush of melted butter to refresh their soft, buttery texture.
FAQs
Can I substitute the orange marmalade with another filling?
Absolutely! Lemon curd makes a wonderful citrusy alternative, or you could try raspberry jam for a twist. Just be sure to choose a jam or marmalade with a robust flavor that complements the sour cream dough.
Is sour cream essential for this recipe?
Sour cream is key to this roll’s tender crumb and subtle tang, so I highly recommend using it. Plain yogurt can be a substitute in a pinch, but the texture and flavor won’t be quite the same.
Can I make these rolls vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the butter with plant-based margarine, use a flax egg instead of a large egg, and find a dairy-free sour cream alternative. The yeast and orange flavor combo will still shine through beautifully.
How long do these rolls stay fresh?
Freshly baked, these rolls stay soft and delicious for about 2 days at room temperature. Beyond that, you’ll get the best results by freezing and reheating as described earlier.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Yes! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds can be sprinkled over the marmalade before rolling up the dough to add a pleasant crunch and nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the citrus.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so special about the combination of bright orange and creamy sour cream in these rolls that makes them a standout breakfast or dessert treat. Whether you’re sharing with family or gifting to friends, this Orange Sour Cream Rolls Recipe is sure to bring a smile and a little sunshine to your table. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy baking these delightful, citrusy rolls that feel like a warm hug with every bite.
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Orange Sour Cream Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Orange Sour Cream Rolls are soft, tender, and filled with a delightful citrus marmalade. Combining the richness of sour cream with the bright flavor of orange zest and marmalade, these rolls are perfect for breakfast or dessert. The dough is enriched with butter and egg, then baked to golden perfection and finished with a sweet orange glaze for extra flavor.
Ingredients
Dough
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- ¼ cup warm water (110°F)
- ¾ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 ¾ to 3 cups all-purpose flour
Filling and Topping
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- ½ cup orange marmalade
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing)
Glaze
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon orange juice
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water (110°F) and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream, sugar, softened butter, egg, and salt. Add the foamy yeast mixture and stir to incorporate all ingredients evenly.
- Add Flour and Knead: Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, stirring until a soft dough forms. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
- Shape the Rolls: Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a 10×14-inch rectangle. Spread the orange marmalade evenly over the surface and sprinkle with orange zest. Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log.
- Cut and Arrange: Slice the rolled dough into 12 even pieces and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let the rolls rise for another 30 minutes until puffy.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown on top.
- Brush with Butter: Remove the rolls from the oven and brush the tops with melted butter while they are still warm.
- Make the Glaze and Serve: Whisk together powdered sugar and orange juice until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled rolls before serving for an extra burst of citrus sweetness.
Notes
- You can substitute orange marmalade with lemon curd for a tangy citrus variation.
- Prepare the rolls the night before and refrigerate after the second rise to bake fresh in the morning.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
