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Sweet Orange Knots

Sweet Orange Knots
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Sweet Orange Knots are soft, tender pastries infused with fresh orange zest and juice, offering a bright and refreshing citrus flavor. These charmingly knotted treats have a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture and a golden finish, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack anytime. Made with simple pantry staples and baked to perfection with an optional sweet orange glaze, they bring sunshine and irresistible aroma to your kitchen.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough Ingredients

  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (substitute gluten-free blend for gluten-free option)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 cup warm milk (110°F / 43°C; use plant-based milk for vegan option)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (use vegan butter for vegan option)
  • 1 large egg (or egg replacer for vegan option)
  • Zest of 2 fresh oranges
  • 1/3 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Glaze Ingredients

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2–3 tablespoons fresh orange juice
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for orange glaze variation)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: Warm the milk to about 110°F (43°C) — warm but not hot to the touch — and dissolve the yeast with 1 teaspoon of sugar. Let it foam for 5-10 minutes until bubbly. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, and salt.
  2. Mix Wet Ingredients: Once the yeast mixture is bubbly, add the softened butter, egg, fresh orange juice, and orange zest. Pour this wet mixture slowly into the dry ingredients while stirring to form a rough dough.
  3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead vigorously for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
  4. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot (75-80°F) for 1 to 1.5 hours or until it doubles in size.
  5. Shape the Knots: Punch down the risen dough, divide into about 12 equal portions. Roll each into an 8-inch rope, then gently tie each rope into a loose knot. Arrange the knots on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  6. Second Rise: Lightly cover the knots and let them rise for about 30 minutes, allowing them to puff up and stay soft.
  7. Bake the Knots: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the knots with orange glaze made from orange juice and sugar or a beaten egg wash for a golden finish. Bake for 18-20 minutes until golden brown.
  8. Glaze and Serve: While still warm, brush knots with a sweet orange glaze made by mixing powdered sugar and fresh orange juice. Let cool slightly before enjoying.

Notes

  • Use fresh oranges: Fresh zest and juice provide the best vibrant flavor compared to bottled alternatives.
  • Don’t over-flour: Excess flour can make the dough tough; keep it slightly tacky for soft knots.
  • Warm environment for rising: A cozy spot around 75-80°F speeds up yeast activity for a better rise.
  • Brush gently when glazing before baking to avoid soggy dough.
  • Cool slightly before applying the final sugar glaze so it doesn’t melt off.
  • For vegan version, use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and an egg replacer.
  • Customize with additions like cinnamon, mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit folded in during kneading.

Nutrition

Keywords: Sweet Orange Knots, orange pastry, citrus knots, breakfast knots, orange bread, homemade pastry, soft orange knots, baking orange knots

Find it online: https://marysplate.com/sweet-orange-knots/