Cranberry Orange Rolls Recipe

Introduction

Cranberry Orange Rolls are a delightful twist on classic sweet rolls, combining the tangy brightness of fresh orange with tart cranberries. These soft, buttery rolls are perfect for breakfast or brunch, offering a burst of flavor in every bite.

Ingredients

• 1 package King’s Hawaiian original sweet rolls
• 3 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon white granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons fresh orange juice (divided)
• Zest of 1/2 orange
• 3/4 cup cranberries
• 1/2 cup confectioners sugar

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350° F. Lightly spray a baking pan large enough to hold one package of Hawaiian rolls with cooking spray and set it aside.
2. Step 2: Place the Hawaiian rolls on a flat surface. Make a 1-inch deep cut across the top of each roll, then rotate the roll 90 degrees and make a second 1-inch deep cut to form a cross.
3. Step 3: Transfer the rolls to the prepared baking pan.
4. Step 4: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter (save about 1 teaspoon for the glaze), white granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of orange juice, and the orange zest. Stir until well mixed.
5. Step 5: Using a small spoon, drizzle the orange butter mixture into the cuts and over the tops of the rolls, distributing it evenly. Sprinkle the cranberries on top, pressing most of them gently into the openings.
6. Step 6: Bake the rolls for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown. Remove the pan from the oven and place the rolls on a wire rack to cool slightly.
7. Step 7: While the rolls cool, whisk together the confectioners sugar, the remaining 1 tablespoon of orange juice, and the reserved melted butter (re-melt if necessary) until smooth.
8. Step 8: Drizzle the glaze evenly over the warm rolls and let them rest for about 10 minutes to allow the glaze to soak in. Serve and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh cranberries for a tart punch or substitute dried cranberries for a sweeter, chewier texture.
• For extra citrus flavor, add a teaspoon of orange extract to the glaze.
• Try adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch.
• If you prefer a softer crust, cover the rolls loosely with foil halfway through baking.

Storage

Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep them fresh longer, refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven before serving to restore softness and enhance the flavors.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these rolls in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the rolls up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate overnight. Bake them fresh the next day for the best texture and flavor.

Can I use frozen cranberries?

Frozen cranberries work fine; just thaw and drain them well before using to avoid extra moisture in the rolls.

Cranberry Orange Rolls Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 247 reviews

• Author: Lila
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 12 rolls 1x

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Description

Cranberry Orange Rolls are a delightful twist on classic sweet rolls, featuring zesty orange butter, fresh cranberries baked into the rolls, and a tangy orange glaze drizzled on top. These warm, soft rolls are perfect for holiday breakfasts, brunches, or any special occasion when you want a citrusy, fruity treat.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

• 1 package King’s Hawaiian original sweet rolls
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon white granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons fresh orange juice (divided)
• Zest of 1/2 orange
• 3/4 cup fresh cranberries
• 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar

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Instructions

1. Prep: Preheat your oven to 350° F (175° C). Lightly spray a baking pan, large enough to fit one package of Hawaiian rolls, with cooking spray and set it aside.
2. Cut Rolls: Place the Hawaiian rolls on a clean surface. Make a 1-inch deep cut across the top of each roll, then rotate it 90 degrees and make another 1-inch deep cut, creating openings for the filling. Transfer the rolls carefully to the prepared baking pan.
3. Make Orange Butter: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter (reserving about 1 teaspoon for the glaze), 1 tablespoon white granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of fresh orange juice, and the zest of half an orange. Stir until well blended.
4. Fill Rolls: Using a small spoon, drizzle the orange butter mixture into the cuts and over the top of the rolls, ensuring even distribution. Sprinkle the cranberries on top, tucking most into the openings created by your cuts.
5. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake the rolls for 18 to 20 minutes or until the tops turn golden brown. Remove from oven and place on a wire rack to cool slightly.
6. Glaze: While the rolls are cooling, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, remaining 1 tablespoon of orange juice, and the reserved melted butter until smooth. Drizzle this glaze evenly over the warm rolls. Let the glaze soak in by resting the rolls for about 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!

Notes

• You can use fresh or frozen cranberries, but if frozen, do not thaw before baking.
• Adjust the orange juice quantity in the glaze for desired consistency; add more sugar if thicker glaze is preferred.
• For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle a little cinnamon or nutmeg into the orange butter mixture.
• Serve these rolls warm for the best taste and texture.
• Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 18-20 minutes
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: cranberry orange rolls, sweet rolls, Hawaiian rolls, holiday breakfast, orange glaze, cranberry pastry