Description

Sweet Orange Knots are soft, fluffy pastries infused with fresh orange zest and juice, offering a bright citrus aroma and tender buttery texture. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or party platters, these easy-to-make knots combine simple pantry staples to create a refreshing and irresistible sweet treat that stays fresh longer and can be customized for various dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough Ingredients

3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free baking blend for gluten-free version)
2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
½ cup granulated sugar
1 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Zest of 2 fresh oranges
⅓ cup fresh orange juice
1 teaspoon salt
1 large egg

Optional Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 tablespoons fresh orange juice

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Instructions

Prepare the Dough: Start by activating your yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar. Meanwhile, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Once the yeast mixture is bubbly and alive, combine it with dry ingredients along with butter, egg, fresh orange zest, and juice. Mix until a soft dough forms.
Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out on a floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic, which develops the gluten for chewy softness.
First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise for 1 to 1.5 hours or until doubled in size in a warm environment.
Shape the Knots: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into equal portions. Roll each portion into a rope about 10 inches long and tie into a loose knot. Place knots on a parchment-lined baking sheet with space between each.
Second Rise: Cover shaped knots lightly and let rise for another 30–45 minutes until puffy and nearly doubled again.
Bake to Perfection: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush tops with melted butter or egg wash for shine and bake for 15–18 minutes until golden brown and aromatic.
Optional Glaze: While warm, drizzle or brush a glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice over the knots for a sweet, glossy finish.

Notes

Use fresh orange zest; zest oranges before juicing for maximum fragrance without bitterness.
Ensure milk is warm, not hot, to keep yeast alive and active.
Do not over-flour the dough; it should remain slightly sticky for best texture.
Allow ample rising time for fluffier, softer knots.
Brushing with egg wash or melted butter before baking creates a golden crust and richer flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 knot
Calories: 180
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 3.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 27g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 40mg