Sourdough Orange Rolls: Tangy, Soft, and Irresistibly Delicious!
The first time I made these sourdough orange rolls, I was instantly transported back to my grandmother’s cozy kitchen.
The scent of freshly baked dough mingling with sweet citrus reminded me of Sunday mornings when she would surprise us with soft, pillowy pastries.
I was too young to appreciate the patience required for sourdough, but now, I find joy in the slow magic of fermentation.
Each bite carries the brightness of fresh oranges, the richness of butter, and the gentle tang of sourdough. These rolls have become a cherished weekend tradition in my home, and I’m excited to pass this recipe on to you.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Pillowy Soft Texture: The fermentation process creates a beautifully tender roll.
- Bright, Refreshing Flavor: Fresh orange zest and juice bring a citrusy pop.
- Perfectly Balanced Sweetness: Not too rich, making them great for breakfast or dessert.
- Great for Sourdough Enthusiasts: A fun way to use up extra sourdough starter.
- Customizable: Try adding nuts, chocolate chips, or a cream cheese glaze for variety.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Dough:
- 1 cup active sourdough starter
- ⅓ cup fresh orange juice (not ½ cup, to prevent gluten weakening)
- ½ cup warm milk (whole milk or dairy-free alternative)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (swap ¼ of it for brown sugar if desired)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted (+1 extra tablespoon for softness)
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour for extra chewiness)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (extra fluffiness boost)
- Zest of 1 large orange
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (or ¼ teaspoon orange extract)
Filling:
- ¼ cup softened butter
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon cardamom (optional but highly recommended)
- ½ teaspoon orange zest
Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Prep & Cook Time
| Activity | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Resting Time | 1-2 hours |
| Baking Time | 25-30 minutes |
| Total Time | 2 hours 15 minutes |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the sourdough starter, warm milk, sugar, melted butter, egg, orange zest, vanilla extract, and orange juice.
- Prepare dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually mix into the wet ingredients to form a soft dough.
- Knead: Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Let rise in a greased bowl for 1-2 hours or until nearly doubled.
- Make the filling: Mix softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, and orange zest into a spreadable paste.
- Roll out and fill: Roll dough into a rectangle (½ inch thick), spread filling evenly, and roll tightly. Slice into even pieces.
- Second rise: Arrange rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and let rise another 30-45 minutes.
- Glaze: Whisk powdered sugar, orange juice, and vanilla together and drizzle over warm rolls.
Expert Tips for the Best Sourdough Orange Rolls
- Use an active sourdough starter: A well-fed starter ensures a light and fluffy texture.
- Knead until smooth: Proper gluten development leads to a tender, springy roll.
- Don’t rush the rise: The dough needs time—overnight fermentation enhances the flavor.
- Personalize them: Try raisins, nuts, or even a cream cheese filling for fun variations.
- For perfect glazing: Mix powdered sugar with fresh orange juice for a sweet, citrusy drizzle.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Roll |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 |
| Fat | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 31g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Sugar | 7g |
FAQs About Sourdough Orange Rolls
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend with xanthan gum.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for a week.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes—after kneading, refrigerate overnight. Let it come to room temperature before rolling.
How should I reheat these?
Warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or bake at 300°F (~150°C) for a few minutes.
Enjoy These Cozy, Citrusy Rolls!
Whether you’re savoring them with coffee in the morning or as an evening treat, these sourdough orange rolls will brighten your day.
I hope they become a family favorite in your home—just as they have in mine!
