The iconic, buttery rolls from Texas Roadhouse are now within reach for home bakers. Forget reservations – these soft, golden rolls, brushed with melted butter and slathered in a signature honey-cinnamon spread, are surprisingly simple to recreate in your own kitchen. This recipe delivers the same irresistible flavor and airy texture that keeps customers coming back for more.
Why These Rolls Matter
The appeal of these rolls isn’t just about taste; it’s about the experience. Texas Roadhouse intentionally keeps its rolls a central part of its customer experience. The aroma and comforting texture are designed to be addictive, encouraging repeat visits and making the restaurant a destination for simple indulgence. By replicating them at home, you’re not just making bread – you’re bringing a beloved dining experience into your kitchen.
Key Ingredients and Their Roles
The success of these rolls lies in a few key components:
- All-purpose flour: Provides the structure for a soft, fluffy crumb.
- Active dry yeast: Essential for the dough to rise, creating the light, airy texture.
- Whole milk: Adds moisture and richness, contributing to tenderness.
- Butter: Not just for flavor, but also for tenderness and a golden-brown crust.
- Cinnamon: The signature spice that elevates the honey butter to irresistible status.
- Sugar: Activates the yeast and adds a subtle sweetness, enhancing the rolls’ overall flavor.
Making Texas Roadhouse Rolls: A Detailed Walkthrough
Prep time: 30–40 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Yields: 12 rolls
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Activate the Yeast: Combine ¼ cup warm water (100–110°F), 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast, and 1 teaspoon sugar in a stand mixer. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy, ensuring the yeast is alive and ready to work.
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Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: In a separate saucepan, warm 1 cup whole milk and ¼ stick (4 tablespoons) cubed butter over medium heat until melted. Ensure the mixture is warm but not hot (110–115°F). Pour into the yeast mixture.
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Knead the Dough: Add 4 cups all-purpose flour, remaining sugar, 1 large egg, and 1 tablespoon kosher salt to the stand mixer. Mix on low with the dough hook until a shaggy dough forms (about 2 minutes). Increase speed to medium and knead for 5 more minutes until elastic and lightly tacky.
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First Rise: Form the dough into a ball, coat a bowl with 1 teaspoon butter, and place the dough inside. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size (around 1 ½ hours).
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Shape the Rolls: Lightly flour a surface and turn out the dough. Pat into a 12×9-inch rectangle. Cut into 12 (3-inch) squares and arrange evenly on a buttered baking sheet. Cover and let rise again for 45 minutes until puffy.
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Make the Cinnamon Honey Butter: While the dough rises, combine 1 stick softened butter, ¼ cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons honey, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon salt in a medium bowl. Mix until smooth and creamy.
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Bake to Golden Perfection: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20–22 minutes, rotating halfway through, until golden brown and puffed. Brush with melted butter immediately after removing from the oven.
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Serve Warm: Let cool slightly before serving with generous helpings of the honey-cinnamon butter. The warm rolls will melt in your mouth with each bite.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftover rolls can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat wrapped in foil in a 350°F oven for 4–6 minutes.
Final Thoughts
These Texas Roadhouse-style rolls deliver the restaurant experience right to your table. The combination of buttery dough, sweet cinnamon butter, and comforting aroma is a simple indulgence that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving a holiday meal or just craving a warm treat, these rolls are guaranteed to satisfy.
