Introduction

Few things make mornings brighter than the smell of fresh sweet rolls drifting from the oven. These Ring-a-Ling Sweet Rolls are a timeless breakfast treat that bring a touch of elegance to the table. Unlike heavy, sticky cinnamon rolls, this recipe keeps things light and refined with a delicate almond filling and a fresh citrus glaze.

The flavor is beautifully balanced—warm, buttery dough swirled with ground almonds, kissed with cinnamon and nutmeg, and topped with a gentle drizzle of orange glaze. Every bite feels nostalgic yet refreshing, making it a perfect pairing with coffee, tea, or even a tall glass of cold milk.

This recipe has been winning hearts since 1955 when Bertha Jorgensen of Portland, Oregon, first submitted it to a baking contest. Decades later, it remains a family favorite—proof that simple, wholesome flavors never go out of style. Whether served at brunch, during the holidays, or as a weekend baking project, these rolls are a reminder that comfort food can also be refined.

 

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Balanced sweetness – not overly sugary like traditional sticky buns.
• Timeless flavor – almond filling with a citrusy glaze that feels classic yet fresh.
• Family-friendly comfort food – perfect for brunch, holidays, or special breakfasts.
• Versatile recipe – great for both beginner bakers and seasoned pros.
• AdSense-safe keywords – an easy baking recipe that works for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.

 

 

What You Need

For the Dough

• 4 to 4½ cups all-purpose flour (divided)
• ½ cup sugar (divided)
• 2 tsp salt
• 2 tsp grated orange peel (zest of 1–2 oranges)
• 2 packets dry active yeast
• 1 cup whole milk
• ⅓ cup butter
• 1 egg

For the Filling

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• ⅓ cup butter, softened
• 1 cup ground almonds
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp nutmeg

For the Glaze

• 3 tbsp powdered sugar
• ¼ cup orange juice

 

 

How to Make Ring-a-Ling Sweet Rolls

Step 1 – Make the Dough

• In a large bowl, combine 2 cups flour, ⅓ cup sugar, salt, orange peel, and yeast.
• Warm milk and butter in a saucepan (do not boil). Add to flour mixture along with the egg.
• Beat with an electric mixer for 2–3 minutes. Stir in remaining flour until a stiff dough forms.

Step 2 – First Rise

• Cover and let dough rise in a warm spot for 35–50 minutes, or until doubled.
• Step 3 – Prepare the Filling
• Mix powdered sugar, softened butter, almonds, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

Step 4 – Shape the Rolls

• Roll dough into a 22″x12″ rectangle. Spread filling on half, fold over, cut into 20–22 strips, twist, and shape into swirls.

Step 5 – Second Rise

• Place shaped rolls on lined baking sheets. Cover and let rise 30–45 minutes.

Step 6 – Bake & Glaze

• Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 9–12 minutes. Mix glaze and brush over rolls. Return to oven for 3–5 minutes until golden.

 

 

Tips for Success

• Use fresh orange zest for the best flavor.
• Twist dough strips tightly so they hold their swirl shape.
• Don’t skip the second rise—this creates soft, fluffy rolls.
• For a richer flavor, use toasted almonds in the filling.

 

 

Variations

• Nut-Free – substitute almond filling with sweetened cream cheese.
• Holiday Twist – add dried cranberries to the filling.
• Chocolate Lover’s – sprinkle mini chocolate chips with the almond filling.
• Glaze Options – try lemon juice instead of orange for a tangy finish.

 

 

Substitutions

• Milk → Almond or oat milk for dairy-free.
• Butter → Coconut oil or vegan margarine.
• Flour → Use half whole wheat for a heartier texture.

 

 

FAQs

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, refrigerate overnight after the first rise.

2. Can I freeze these rolls?
Yes, freeze baked rolls up to 2 months. Reheat before glazing.

3. Do I need a stand mixer?
No, hand mixing works fine. A mixer just speeds up the process.

4. Can I use almond extract?
Yes, add ½ tsp to the filling for stronger flavor.

5. Can I skip the glaze?
Yes, though the orange glaze adds brightness.

6. What if I only have instant yeast?
It works—just skip proofing and mix it directly with flour.

7. How can I make them extra fluffy?
Use bread flour instead of all-purpose.

8. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, perfect for holidays or large gatherings.

9. Can I bake in a pan instead of separate rolls?
Yes, arrange them in a greased 9×13 pan for pull-apart rolls.

10. How long do leftovers last?
3 days at room temp in an airtight container.

 

 

Health Benefits

• Almonds provide protein, vitamin E, and healthy fats.
• Orange zest & juice add vitamin C and antioxidants.
• Homemade dough avoids preservatives in store-bought pastries.

 

 

How to Serve

• With fresh fruit for a balanced breakfast.
• Alongside coffee or tea for a cozy brunch.
• Warmed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.

 

 

Make Ahead & Storage

• Make Ahead – Prepare dough the night before and refrigerate.
• Storage – Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days.
• Freezing – Freeze unglazed rolls, thaw, then reheat and glaze before serving.

 

Conclusion

Ring-a-Ling Sweet Rolls are more than just a breakfast pastry—they’re a slice of history and a bite of comfort. With their tender dough, almond-scented filling, and light citrus glaze, they strike the perfect balance of flavor without being overly rich or heavy.

Whether you’re preparing them for a holiday brunch, a weekend family gathering, or simply as a cozy morning treat, these rolls bring timeless joy to the table. The recipe has been delighting bakers since 1955, and with each twist and swirl, you’ll understand why it has endured.

So the next time you’re craving something homemade, warm, and unforgettable, skip the store-bought pastries and treat yourself to the magic of Ring-a-Ling Sweet Rolls—an old-fashioned treasure that’s still perfect for today’s kitchens.