Introduction
Imagine waking up to the sweet aroma of freshly baked orange rolls wafting through your home. This Orange Roll Casserole is a delightful twist on traditional cinnamon rolls that promises to make your breakfast or brunch utterly memorable. With a creamy filling bursting with zesty orange flavor, this dish is both comforting and indulgent. What’s even better? It rises overnight, allowing you to simply pop it in the oven in the morning for a warm, gooey treat that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1 package (24 oz) canned cinnamon rolls, cut into quarters
- Zest of 1 orange
- Butter, for greasing the baking dish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 12 hours 45 minutes (includes overnight refrigeration)
Yield: 8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Start by greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter to prevent sticking and create a lovely golden crust.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and flour. Beat them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy — this will be the luscious base of your casserole.
- Next, add in the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and orange juice, blending until everything is perfectly mixed and inviting.
- Stir in the vibrant orange zest, which will add a fresh, aromatic flavor that complements the creamy filling.
- Now, take the quartered cinnamon rolls and arrange them evenly in your prepared baking dish, creating a delicious foundation for the casserole.
- Pour the delectable cream cheese mixture over the cinnamon rolls, ensuring each piece is well coated — this is where the magic happens!
- Cover your dish with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator overnight. This allows the rolls to soak up all those wonderful flavors.
- The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), filling your kitchen with anticipation.
- Remove the plastic wrap and slide the baking dish into the oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is beautifully golden brown and the center is set, bubbling enticingly.
- Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. This will give you time to make a lovely cup of coffee to enjoy with your warm, gooey creation!
Notes or Tips
For extra flavor, consider drizzling a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice over the casserole once it’s out of the oven. Also, feel free to add in some chopped nuts or dried fruit to the cinnamon rolls for even more texture and flavor!
Cooking Techniques
This casserole relies on the basics of batter mixing and baking, but it includes the special technique of allowing the rolls to rise overnight. This not only enhances the flavor but also gives you a fluffy, airy texture that’s hard to resist. Make sure to allow it to sit in the fridge overnight for optimal results!
FAQ
Can I make this casserole in advance?
Yes! The beauty of this recipe is that it’s designed for overnight preparation. You can assemble it the night before and bake it fresh in the morning.
What if I don’t have orange juice?
You can substitute with another citrus juice like lemon or even use a flavored yogurt for added creaminess!
Conclusion
This Orange Roll Casserole is sure to become a cherished recipe in your home, perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or just a special weekend brunch. With its rich, creamy texture and the bright zing of orange, it’s a comforting dish that’s easy to prepare yet feels like a festive treat. Enjoy every delicious bite!