If you love waking up to the warm, irresistible aroma of fresh-baked pastries, then you are going to adore this Easy Orange Cinnamon Rolls with Orange Cream Cheese Icing (No-Yeast) Recipe. Imagine soft, fluffy rolls that come together quickly thanks to the no-yeast twist, generously swirled with a sweet, citrusy cinnamon filling and topped with a tangy, luscious orange cream cheese icing that perfectly complements each bite. These rolls offer the perfect blend of sweet citrus and comforting spices—ideal for breakfast, brunch, or whenever you crave a cozy treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients that work harmoniously to create a delightful texture and flavor. Each one plays a crucial role in giving these cinnamon rolls their tender crumb, rich orange notes, and creamy finish.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy base that forms the dough’s structure.
- 4-1/2 tsp baking powder: The essential leavening agent that makes these rolls fluffy without yeast.
- 3/4 tsp kosher salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
- 3 Tbsp granulated sugar: Adds just enough sweetness to the dough.
- 1/2 cup cold butter (cut into small pieces): Creates tender layers and flakiness in the finished rolls.
- 1-1/4 cups cold buttermilk: Gives the rolls moisture and a subtle tang, making them incredibly soft.
- 1/2 cup orange marmalade: Infuses bright citrus flavor bursting in every bite.
- 3 Tbsp melted butter: Used to moisten the filling for a rich, gooey texture.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Adds deep, caramel-like sweetness to the cinnamon filling.
- 1 tsp cinnamon: The warm spice that’s classic in every cinnamon roll.
- 4 ounces cream cheese (room temperature): Key for creamy, smooth icing that complements the orange notes.
- 4 Tbsp butter (room temperature): Makes the icing luxuriously rich.
- 2 cups confectioners sugar: Sweetens and smooths the icing perfectly.
- 2 Tbsp orange juice: Adds fresh citrus zing to brighten the cream cheese icing.
- Pinch of kosher salt: Balances the sweetness in the icing for a well-rounded flavor.
- Optional orange zest for garnish: Adds a pop of color and extra citrus aroma.
How to Make Easy Orange Cinnamon Rolls with Orange Cream Cheese Icing (No-Yeast) Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by whisking together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and granulated sugar in a large bowl. Cut the cold butter into small pieces and quickly work it into the dry ingredients using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is essential for that tender, flaky texture. Pour in the cold buttermilk and gently mix everything until just combined into a soft dough. Be careful not to overwork it; you want it just incorporated.
Step 2: Roll and Fill
Sprinkle a clean surface with flour and roll the dough into a rectangle about 12 by 9 inches. Spread the orange marmalade evenly over the dough. In a small bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon, then sprinkle this cinnamon-sugar mixture over the marmalade layer. This bold, gooey swirl is what makes each bite wonderfully sweet and citrusy.
Step 3: Shape the Rolls
Starting from one long side, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Use a sharp knife to slice the log into 8 equal pieces. Place the rolls cut-side up in a greased baking dish, leaving a bit of space between them for expansion. The rolls are now ready for the oven—no waiting for yeast to rise means you can enjoy fresh cinnamon rolls much faster!
Step 4: Bake
Bake the rolls in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 18 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The smell at this point is already unforgettable—orange and cinnamon mingling in the air is pure comfort.
Step 5: Make the Orange Cream Cheese Icing
While the rolls bake, whip together the cream cheese and butter until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add the confectioners sugar, orange juice, and a pinch of salt, mixing until you have a creamy, spreadable icing bursting with bright citrus flavor. The icing is where this Easy Orange Cinnamon Rolls with Orange Cream Cheese Icing (No-Yeast) Recipe truly shines, balancing sweetness with tanginess.
Step 6: Ice the Rolls
Once the cinnamon rolls have cooled slightly but are still warm, spread the orange cream cheese icing generously over them. Don’t be shy here; the icing enhances every warm, aromatic bite with a glossy, decadent finish. Optionally, sprinkle some fresh orange zest on top for an elegant, fresh garnish.
How to Serve Easy Orange Cinnamon Rolls with Orange Cream Cheese Icing (No-Yeast) Recipe
Garnishes
Beyond the optional orange zest, try adding finely chopped toasted pecans or a light dusting of cinnamon powder for extra texture and aroma that elevate the look and taste of your cinnamon rolls when serving.
Side Dishes
These sweet rolls pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or a light herbal tea. For a heartier brunch, serve alongside fresh fruit salad or creamy Greek yogurt to balance the sweetness with freshness and tang.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these cinnamon rolls in a rustic wooden tray lined with a cloth napkin to add cozy charm. For special occasions, wrap individual rolls in parchment paper tied with twine for a delightful gift or party favor. These presentation ideas will make the Easy Orange Cinnamon Rolls with Orange Cream Cheese Icing (No-Yeast) Recipe feel even more special and inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them soft and moist. If you want to keep them longer, refrigeration is an option but make sure to warm them slightly before serving to restore their tender texture.
Freezing
These cinnamon rolls freeze wonderfully. Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat frozen or refrigerated rolls in a microwave for about 20-30 seconds or warm them in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes. If desired, add a little extra orange cream cheese icing after warming for that fresh-out-of-the-oven glory.
FAQs
Can I make these cinnamon rolls without buttermilk?
Absolutely! You can make a simple buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1-1/4 cups of regular milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
Why use baking powder instead of yeast?
This Easy Orange Cinnamon Rolls with Orange Cream Cheese Icing (No-Yeast) Recipe is designed for convenience. Baking powder acts quickly to leaven the dough, so you skip the long rise times yeast requires. It’s perfect when you want fresh rolls in under an hour.
Can I use fresh orange juice instead of marmalade?
You can, but marmalade adds sweetness and a thicker texture that fresh juice alone won’t provide. If using fresh juice, consider adding a bit of sugar and zest to enhance flavor and texture in the filling.
How do I store the icing if not using it immediately?
Keep the cream cheese icing covered in the refrigerator and bring it back to room temperature before spreading to ensure smooth, spreadable consistency.
Can I make these rolls vegan?
You’d need to substitute the butter with plant-based margarine, use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative, and replace buttermilk with a vegan milk plus acid like lemon juice. The texture may differ slightly but it’s definitely doable!
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about homemade cinnamon rolls, especially when they come together quickly and pack a punch of fresh orange flavor. This Easy Orange Cinnamon Rolls with Orange Cream Cheese Icing (No-Yeast) Recipe is a heartwarming crowd-pleaser that’s simple enough for any day, yet special enough to impress your loved ones. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy cinnamon rolls.
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Easy Orange Cinnamon Rolls with Orange Cream Cheese Icing (No-Yeast) Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 43 minutes
- Yield: 8 rolls
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Enjoy these Easy Orange Cinnamon Rolls with Orange Cream Cheese Icing, a delightful no-yeast recipe perfect for a quick, flavorful breakfast or dessert. Made with a soft, tender dough enhanced by fresh orange marmalade and warm cinnamon, these rolls are topped with a luscious orange-infused cream cheese frosting that adds a refreshing citrus twist to a classic treat.
Ingredients
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 all-purpose flour, baking powder, kosher salt, and granulated sugar. Cut the cold butter into small pieces and mix it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the cold buttermilk and stir just until a dough forms; be careful not to overmix.
- Roll out the dough: Lightly flour a surface and roll the dough into a rectangle approximately 12×15 inches in size. Spread the orange marmalade evenly over the rolled dough to create a flavorful base for the filling.
- Prepare the filling: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until combined. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the marmalade layer, covering the entire surface.
- Shape the rolls: Starting from one long side, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the edge to seal, then cut the log into 8 equal slices. Place the rolls cut-side up in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spacing them slightly apart.
- Bake the rolls: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for about 18 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly.
- Make the orange cream cheese icing: In a mixing bowl, beat the room temperature cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the confectioners sugar, then mix in the orange juice and a pinch of kosher salt until well combined and fluffy.
- Frost the rolls: Once the cinnamon rolls have cooled for about 10 minutes, spread the orange cream cheese icing generously over each roll. Garnish with optional orange zest for an extra burst of citrus flavor and a decorative finish.
Notes
- If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1-1/4 cups of milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using.
- Use cold butter for the dough to help create a tender, flaky texture.
- These rolls are best enjoyed the same day but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 4 days.
- Reheat gently in the microwave or oven before serving to restore softness.
- Optional orange zest adds beautiful aroma and visual appeal to the frosting.
