There is something truly magical about waking up to freshly baked, warm marmalade cinnamon rolls. This Marmalade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is a sweet embrace of soft, fluffy dough swirled with spiced cinnamon, rich brown sugar, and bright bursts of orange marmalade in every bite. It’s the kind of treat that can brighten any morning or cozy afternoon with friends and family, combining classic comfort with a zesty surprise that keeps you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is the first step to creating a batch of irresistible rolls that balance buttery richness, fragrant cinnamon, and citrusy marmalade. Each component plays a vital role in developing the flavor, texture, and beautiful golden color of these treats.
- 500g strong white bread flour: Provides the sturdy structure and perfect chewiness that cinnamon rolls are known for.
- 7g fast-action dried yeast: Helps the dough rise beautifully, making the rolls soft and airy.
- 1 tsp fine sea salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness.
- 50g caster sugar: Adds just the right touch of sweetness to the dough.
- 300ml warm milk: Moisturizes the dough and activates the yeast for a fluffy rise.
- 50g unsalted butter, melted: Keeps the dough tender and rich.
- 1 large egg: Adds richness and helps bind the dough.
- 75g unsalted butter, softened (for filling): Creates a luscious base for the cinnamon and sugar filling.
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon: The star spice that fills your kitchen with warm, inviting aroma.
- 75g soft brown sugar: Melts into the butter creating a caramelized flavor inside each roll.
- 100g orange marmalade: Infuses a bright citrusy twist to the classic cinnamon sweetness.
- 100g icing sugar: For the sweet glaze that finishes off these rolls beautifully.
- 2–3 tbsp fresh orange juice: Adds a tart balance to the glaze to complement the marmalade’s sweetness.
How to Make Marmalade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Rise the Dough
Start by combining the bread flour, dried yeast, sea salt, and caster sugar in a large mixing bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk the warm milk, melted butter, and egg together. Pour this wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until combined. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. This kneading process is key—it develops the gluten structure that makes your rolls wonderfully soft yet slightly chewy. Place the dough back in the bowl, cover it, and let it rise for about an hour until it doubles in size.
Step 2: Roll Out and Add the Filling
Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it into a large rectangle approximately 1 cm thick. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, which will create the rich base layer. Then sprinkle on the ground cinnamon and soft brown sugar, making sure every bite will have a lovely sweet-spicy flavor. Finally, distribute dollops of the orange marmalade across the dough, gently spreading it so that the citrus notes integrate with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Step 3: Shape and Second Rise
Carefully roll the dough from the long edge into a tight log—it’s like rolling up a treasure trove of flavor. Slice this log into 12 equal pieces to ensure perfect portion sizes for everyone at the table. Place these rolls cut side up in a greased baking dish, giving them space to expand. Cover the dish and let them rise again for 30 to 40 minutes. This second rise softens the dough even more and helps the rolls achieve a delightful fluffiness during baking.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the rolls for 25 to 30 minutes until they turn a beautiful golden brown and are cooked through. The scent of cinnamon and orange marmalade will fill your kitchen, signaling that these soon-to-be-delicious rolls are ready. Their warm, gooey interiors and slightly crisp edges make them utterly irresistible.
Step 5: Finish with a Sweet Orange Glaze
While the rolls are baking, mix the icing sugar with fresh orange juice to create a glossy glaze. Drizzle this over the still-warm cinnamon rolls right before serving. This glaze adds a perfect final touch—bringing a silky sweetness and a subtle citrus tang that complements the marmalade inside each roll beautifully.
How to Serve Marmalade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Marmalade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe even further, sprinkle some finely grated orange zest over the glaze before serving. A dusting of extra cinnamon or a handful of chopped toasted pecans adds both visual appeal and delightful texture. Fresh mint leaves can offer a refreshing contrast to the warm, sugary notes.
Side Dishes
Pair these rolls with a steaming cup of coffee or a rich chai latte for a perfect morning pick-me-up. For brunch, serve alongside fresh fruit like berries or sliced apples to balance out the sweetness. A dollop of plain yogurt or cream cheese can add a tangy contrast that complements the citrus and spice in the rolls.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your presentation up a notch by serving your Marmalade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe on a rustic wooden board with a small jar of extra marmalade for guests to spread. Wrap individual rolls in parchment paper tied with twine for charming picnic treats. For a fun twist, bake the rolls in mini muffin tins to create individual “roll muffins” that are perfect for parties or lunchboxes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover rolls (which is always a good problem to have), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This will keep their soft texture intact, making them a perfect next-day snack.
Freezing
For longer storage, these rolls freeze beautifully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. You can freeze unbaked (after the second rise) or fully baked rolls. Frozen rolls last up to 3 months and are an excellent way to always have a batch of warm pastry waiting whenever cravings strike.
Reheating
Reheat frozen or stored rolls in a preheated oven at 160°C (320°F) for about 10 to 15 minutes, or microwave them gently for around 20 seconds. Warmed rolls taste just as heavenly as fresh ones, with that glorious melted butter and cinnamon aroma bursting forth once again.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of marmalade?
Absolutely! While orange marmalade is classic and pairs beautifully with cinnamon, you can experiment with other citrus marmalades, like lemon or grapefruit, to add a unique twist to your rolls.
What if I don’t have strong white bread flour?
You can substitute with all-purpose flour, but the texture will be slightly less chewy and fluffy. Bread flour has a higher protein content that helps with gluten development essential for soft, elastic dough.
Can these rolls be made vegan?
With a few swaps, yes. Use plant-based milk and a vegan butter alternative, and replace the egg with flaxseed or chia seed gel. You’ll still get wonderfully soft and flavorful rolls.
How do I know when the rolls are fully baked?
The rolls are done when they are golden brown on top and feel springy to the touch. You can also insert a skewer—it should come out clean or with a few soft crumbs, but not wet dough.
Is it better to bake these rolls fresh or can they be prepared the night before?
Both work well! You can prepare, roll, and slice the dough, then refrigerate overnight for the second rise, baking fresh in the morning. This slow fermentation can enhance the flavor and make for a fresh-baked experience at breakfast time.
Final Thoughts
This Marmalade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is a delightful way to bring warmth, sweetness, and a zing of citrus to your table. It’s comfort food with a bright, fruity personality that’s sure to become a favorite with anyone you share it with. So break out your apron and give this recipe a try—you’re in for a truly joyous baking adventure filled with delicious moments at every turn.
Print
Marmalade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Description
Delight in these freshly baked Marmalade Cinnamon Rolls, featuring a soft, fluffy dough layered with cinnamon, brown sugar, and vibrant orange marmalade. Finished with a sweet orange glaze, these rolls are perfect for a cozy breakfast or indulgent brunch treat.
Ingredients
Dough
- 500g strong white bread flour
- 7g fast-action dried yeast
- 1 tsp fine sea salt
- 50g caster sugar
- 300ml warm milk
- 50g unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
Filling
- 75g unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 75g soft brown sugar
- 100g orange marmalade
Glaze
- 100g icing sugar
- 2–3 tbsp fresh orange juice
Instructions
- Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the strong white bread flour, fast-action dried yeast, fine sea salt, and caster sugar thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm milk, melted unsalted butter, and large egg until well combined. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients.
- Knead the Dough: Knead the combined mixture for about 10 minutes on a floured surface until the dough is smooth and elastic. Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and let the dough rise for approximately 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
- Roll Out Dough: Once risen, roll out the dough on a floured surface into a large rectangle about 1cm thick to prepare for the filling.
- Add Filling: Spread the softened butter evenly over the rolled-out dough. Sprinkle the ground cinnamon and soft brown sugar evenly on top, then dot spoonfuls of orange marmalade over the surface and gently spread it to cover the dough.
- Shape Rolls: Carefully roll the dough tightly from the long edge into a log. Use a sharp knife to slice the rolled dough evenly into 12 pieces.
- Second Rise: Place the cinnamon rolls cut side up into a greased baking dish. Cover with a clean cloth again and allow them to rise for an additional 30 to 40 minutes until slightly puffed.
- Preheat Oven: While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) to prepare for baking.
- Bake Rolls: Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Make Glaze: While the rolls are baking, combine the icing sugar with 2 to 3 tablespoons of fresh orange juice to create a smooth glaze.
- Glaze and Serve: Remove the rolls from the oven and while still warm, drizzle the orange glaze over them. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture experience.
Notes
- Ensure the milk is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly without killing it.
- For softer rolls, do not skip the second proofing stage; it ensures a light texture.
- You can substitute the orange marmalade with apricot jam for a different fruity twist.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently before serving.
- The glaze can be adjusted in thickness by adding more or less orange juice.
