When I think of comfort food, Texas Roadhouse’s Rolls always come to mind. These soft, fluffy rolls are not just a side dish; they’re a heartwarming experience, bringing back memories of family dinners and festive gatherings. There’s something uniquely satisfying about the warm, buttery goodness of these rolls, especially when paired with the sweet and savory honey cinnamon butter. The first bite instantly transports me to a cozy, bustling dining room filled with laughter and the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread. Each roll embodies a sense of togetherness, making every meal feel special and cherished.
These rolls are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday feast, a casual dinner, or a special brunch. Their versatility and irresistible taste make them a favorite among all age groups, from kids to grandparents. Recreating the magic of Texas Roadhouse in your own kitchen is not just about the delicious outcome; it’s about the joy of baking and sharing something truly delightful with your loved ones. This recipe is a tribute to those cherished moments, inviting you to bring a touch of that comforting, homestyle charm to your table, no matter where you are.
Ingredients
1 Packet dry active yeast
¼ C. Warm water
½ C. Milk
½ C. Buttermilk
¼ C. Granulated sugar
1 Egg
Pinch salt
3 ½ C. All-purpose flour
2 Tbsp. Softened unsalted butter
Honey Cinnamon Butter
4 Tbsp. Butter softened and unsalted
½ tsp. Cinnamon
2 tsp. Honey
1 Tbsp. Confectioners sugar
Instructions
Preparing the Dough
Activate the Yeast:
In a small bowl or container, combine 1 packet of dry active yeast with ¼ cup of warm water. Stir once and let it rest for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step ensures that the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic in the dough.
Heat the Milk and Buttermilk:
In a microwave-safe container, combine ½ cup of milk and ½ cup of buttermilk. Heat the mixture in the microwave until it is warm but not hot. It’s okay if the buttermilk separates; it won’t affect the outcome.
Incorporate the Butter:
Stir 2 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter into the warm milk and buttermilk mixture until it melts completely. This mixture will be the base of your dough.
Mix the Initial Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the milk mixture, activated yeast, ¼ cup granulated sugar, a pinch of salt, and 1 cup of all-purpose flour. Using a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, beat the mixture on high until it is well combined and smooth.
Add the Egg:
Crack one egg into the mixing bowl and continue beating until the egg is fully incorporated into the dough.
Add the Remaining Flour:
Gradually add the remaining 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, a little at a time, while continuing to beat the dough on medium speed. The dough should start coming cleanly away from the sides of the bowl and form a cohesive mass.
Knead the Dough:
Once all the flour is incorporated, knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic. This can be done using the dough hook attachment in your mixer or by hand on a lightly floured surface.
First Rise:
Lightly flour the dough and form it into a ball. Place the dough ball into a well-greased large mixing bowl. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Shaping and Baking the Rolls
Prepare the Baking Sheet:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Shape the Rolls:
After the dough has risen, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough out to about ½ inch thickness. Using a sharp knife or a dough cutter, cut the dough into 12 even rectangular shapes.
To shape each roll, fold the ends of each rectangle under to form a more rounded roll shape. Place the shaped rolls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
Second Rise:
Allow the rolls to rise slightly for another 20 minutes. This second rise will help them become even lighter and fluffier.
Preheat the Oven:
While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Bake the Rolls:
Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are lightly browned on top. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking, as this can make the rolls too dry.
Brush with Butter:
If desired, brush the tops of the hot rolls with melted butter immediately after removing them from the oven. This adds an extra layer of richness and flavor.
Making the Honey Cinnamon Butter
Combine the Ingredients:
In a small bowl, combine 4 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter, ½ teaspoon of cinnamon, 2 teaspoons of honey, and 1 tablespoon of confectioners sugar. Mix until all the ingredients are well blended and the butter is smooth and creamy.
Serve:
Serve the warm rolls with the honey cinnamon butter. The combination of the soft, fluffy rolls with the sweet and spiced butter is irresistible.
Variations and Substitutions
Milk Alternatives: You can substitute the milk and buttermilk with dairy-free alternatives such as almond milk and a buttermilk substitute made with lemon juice or vinegar.
Whole Wheat Flour: For a slightly healthier version, replace up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. The texture will be a bit denser, but still delicious.
Spiced Butter Variations: Experiment with different spices in the honey butter, such as nutmeg, cardamom, or a pinch of cloves, to create unique flavor profiles.
Sweet Rolls: Add a bit more sugar to the dough and sprinkle the tops with cinnamon sugar before baking for a sweeter treat.
Conclusion
Texas Roadhouse’s Rolls are more than just a side dish; they are a symbol of warmth, comfort, and togetherness. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven with a dollop of honey cinnamon butter or using them as the base for a slider, these rolls are sure to become a favorite in your household. The recipe, while simple, yields impressive results that rival the restaurant version. With each bite, you’ll be transported to a cozy corner of Texas Roadhouse, savoring the perfect blend of soft, buttery bread and sweet, spiced butter. Enjoy making and sharing these rolls with your loved ones, creating your own delicious memories.
