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.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
