Description
These Easy Orange Cinnamon Rolls with Orange Cream Cheese Icing are a delightful twist on the classic favorite, featuring a tangy orange flavor and cinnamon spice without the need for yeast. Soft, fluffy, and topped with a luscious orange-infused cream cheese icing, they’re perfect for a quick breakfast or sweet treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 4-1/2 tsp baking powder
- 3/4 tsp kosher salt
- 3 Tbsp granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces (1 stick)
- 1-1/4 cups cold buttermilk (see notes on how to make your own buttermilk)
Filling
- 1/2 cup Orange Marmalade
- 3 Tbsp melted butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
Orange Cream Cheese Icing
- 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
- 4 Tbsp butter, room temperature
- 2 cups confectioners sugar
- 2 Tbsp orange juice
- Pinch of kosher salt
- Optional: orange zest for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, kosher salt, and granulated sugar. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly add the cold buttermilk and stir until the dough just comes together. Do not overmix to keep dough tender.
- Roll out the dough: Lightly flour a clean surface and roll the dough into a 12×15 inch rectangle. Try to keep the thickness about 1/4 inch for best results.
- Add filling: Spread the orange marmalade evenly over the dough. In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the marmalade layer.
- Form the rolls: Starting from the long edge, gently roll the dough into a tight log. Pinch the seam to seal. Using a sharp knife, cut the roll into 8 equal slices.
- Bake the cinnamon rolls: Place the rolls cut side up into a greased or parchment-lined 9×13 inch baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 18 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and cooked through.
- Make the orange cream cheese icing: While the rolls bake, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the confectioners sugar, orange juice, and a pinch of kosher salt, mixing until creamy and spreadable. Add orange zest if desired.
- Ice the rolls: Once the cinnamon rolls are warm from the oven, generously spread the orange cream cheese icing over the top. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- To make a homemade buttermilk substitute, mix 1 cup milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or white vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
- For best results, keep all cold ingredients chilled until ready to use to help create a flaky texture.
- Orange zest in the icing adds bright citrus flavor and decorative appeal but is optional.
- These cinnamon rolls are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
