Texas Roadhouse rolls are one of the most beloved features of the restaurant’s dining experience. These golden, pillow-soft dinner rolls are served warm and fresh, straight from the oven, and are paired with a sweet cinnamon honey butter that perfectly complements their slightly sweet, buttery flavor. For many guests, the rolls are a highlight of the meal, often enjoyed even before appetizers or entrees arrive.

What makes these rolls so special is their soft texture, rich aroma, and homemade feel. Whether you’re dining in or recreating them at home, Texas Roadhouse rolls capture the comforting essence of freshly baked bread. Their popularity has inspired countless copycat recipes, allowing fans to replicate the iconic flavor in their own kitchens. From their fluffy interior to the melt-in-your-mouth finish, these rolls have become a must-have for bread lovers and comfort food enthusiasts alike.

The History of Texas Roadhouse Rolls

Texas Roadhouse was founded in 1993 in Clarksville, Indiana, and quickly became known for its casual atmosphere, hand-cut steaks, and hearty American meals. However, one of the most iconic parts of the Texas Roadhouse experience has always been the complimentary fresh-baked rolls served at every table. These rolls are brought out piping hot and accompanied by sweet cinnamon honey butter, creating a memorable start to any meal.

The concept of providing guests with warm, homemade rolls aligns with the restaurant’s mission of delivering legendary food and service. Over the years, the rolls have developed a near cult following, with many guests citing them as the primary reason for returning to the restaurant. Their popularity has led to a surge in demand for copycat recipes online, with home bakers eager to capture the magic of the original. The rolls are now recognized as a signature part of the Texas Roadhouse brand.

Ingredients Overview

Recreating Texas Roadhouse rolls at home begins with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. The base dough consists of all-purpose flour, active dry yeast, sugar, warm milk, melted butter, eggs, and salt. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving the signature softness and flavor.

Flour provides the structure, while the yeast is essential for leavening and creating a light, airy texture. Sugar not only adds a hint of sweetness but also feeds the yeast, helping the dough rise effectively. Warm milk (around 100°F) activates the yeast and adds richness to the dough. Eggs contribute to the rolls’ tender crumb and enhance the color. Butter, both in the dough and brushed on top, delivers that unmistakable rich, golden finish.

Some bakers choose to substitute honey for sugar to achieve a slightly deeper flavor, while others experiment with using bread flour for a chewier consistency. The key to success is using fresh ingredients, especially when it comes to yeast and dairy, and maintaining proper temperatures during mixing and proofing. Proper ratios and technique are essential to mimicking the iconic texture and flavor of the original rolls served at Texas Roadhouse.

Step-by-Step Recipe Guide

1. Preparing the Dough

Begin by activating the yeast. In a bowl, combine 2 ¼ teaspoons of active dry yeast with ¼ cup of warm water (about 100°F) and a teaspoon of sugar. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until frothy. In a separate bowl, warm 1 cup of milk and mix in ¼ cup of melted butter, ¼ cup of sugar, and one beaten egg. Add the activated yeast mixture to this.

Slowly incorporate 3 to 4 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt, mixing with a wooden spoon or dough hook attachment on a mixer. Knead the dough for about 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

2. First Rise

Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap or a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

3. Shaping the Rolls

Punch down the dough gently and turn it onto a floured surface. Roll it out to about ½-inch thickness. Cut into uniform squares or rectangles using a knife or pizza cutter for that traditional Texas Roadhouse shape.

4. Second Rise and Baking

Place the shaped rolls on a greased baking sheet, cover them lightly, and let them rise again for 30 to 40 minutes. Preheat your oven to 350°F during this time.

Bake the rolls for 12 to 15 minutes or until the tops are golden brown. Brush the tops with melted butter immediately after removing from the oven for that glossy, soft finish.

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Cinnamon Honey Butter Recipe

To make the iconic Texas Roadhouse cinnamon honey butter, you’ll need:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

• ¼ cup powdered sugar

• ¼ cup honey

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

In a medium bowl, combine all the ingredients. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to whip the mixture until it becomes light, fluffy, and fully combined. The texture should be smooth and easy to spread.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Allow it to soften at room temperature before serving to achieve the classic creamy consistency.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Rolls

For best results, use fresh, active yeast and ensure your liquids are warm—not hot—to avoid killing the yeast. Knead the dough until it becomes elastic and passes the “windowpane” test, where a small piece can stretch thin without tearing.

Allow the dough to rise in a draft-free, warm area for proper proofing. Over-proofing can lead to deflated rolls, while under-proofing will result in dense texture. Bake on the middle rack and rotate the pan if needed for even browning. Finally, brush the tops with butter as soon as they come out of the oven for maximum flavor and softness.

How to Store and Reheat Texas Roadhouse Rolls

Proper storage and reheating help maintain the fresh-from-the-oven texture of Texas Roadhouse rolls. After baking, allow the rolls to cool completely before storing. They can be kept in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the rolls in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

To reheat, use an oven for best results. Preheat the oven to 300°F, wrap the rolls in foil, and warm them for 10 to 15 minutes. This keeps the exterior soft while refreshing the interior texture. If you’re short on time, microwave a roll for 10–15 seconds on a microwave-safe plate with a damp paper towel to prevent drying.

Frozen rolls should be thawed at room temperature before reheating. For added flavor, brush with melted butter after warming to recreate that fresh-baked finish.

Variations and Add-Ons

While the classic Texas Roadhouse roll recipe is beloved, there are several ways to customize the flavor or adapt the recipe to dietary needs. For a healthier version, substitute part or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. You can also make the rolls gluten-free using a blend of gluten-free flour and xanthan gum, though this may affect the texture.

To enhance flavor, consider adding shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, or chopped herbs like rosemary or chives to the dough. These savory additions pair well with grilled meats or soups. For a sweeter take, brush the tops with honey or sprinkle with cinnamon sugar before baking.

The rolls can also be shaped into knots or mini loaves for different presentations. Experimenting with fillings like cream cheese or fruit preserves offers a dessert-style twist. These variations make Texas Roadhouse rolls a versatile choice for any meal or occasion.

Nutritional Information

A single Texas Roadhouse roll contains approximately 200 to 220 calories, depending on size and ingredients. This includes around 30 grams of carbohydrates, 6 grams of fat, and 4 grams of protein. The cinnamon honey butter adds another 100 to 150 calories per tablespoon due to the sugar and butter content.

To make a lighter version, reduce the sugar in the dough and use low-fat milk or butter alternatives. Smaller roll sizes can also help with portion control. For those tracking macros or calories, be mindful of serving sizes and toppings when enjoying these indulgent, bakery-style rolls.

Texas Roadhouse Rolls Copycat vs. Original Comparison

Copycat recipes strive to replicate the soft, sweet, buttery texture of Texas Roadhouse rolls but may vary slightly from the original. The restaurant version is often fluffier and slightly sweeter, with a consistent, uniform texture thanks to professional baking equipment.

Homemade versions can come very close, especially when using warm milk, fresh yeast, and a proper kneading technique. While you may notice subtle differences in texture or flavor, most copycat recipes offer a satisfying alternative. Many home bakers even prefer the control over ingredients, allowing for adjustments in sweetness, butter content, or size to suit personal taste.

Serving Suggestions and Occasions

Texas Roadhouse rolls are a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of meals. Serve them alongside hearty entrees like steak, roast chicken, or barbecue ribs for a classic comfort-food pairing. They also complement soups, stews, and chili during colder months.

These rolls are ideal for holidays such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter, offering a homemade bread option that’s sure to impress guests. You can make them ahead of time and reheat before serving. They’re also popular for potlucks, dinner parties, or brunches when paired with jams, butter, or savory spreads.

FAQs Section

Q1. What makes Texas Roadhouse rolls so soft?
The key to their softness is a combination of ingredients and technique. Warm milk, butter, and eggs enrich the dough, creating a tender crumb. Proper kneading develops the gluten, while two proofing stages allow the dough to rise slowly and evenly. Brushing the rolls with melted butter right after baking locks in moisture and adds flavor. Using fresh, active yeast and maintaining the correct proofing temperature also help produce the light, fluffy texture characteristic of Texas Roadhouse rolls.

Q2. Can I make Texas Roadhouse rolls without a stand mixer?
Yes, these rolls can be made entirely by hand. Start by mixing the wet and dry ingredients with a wooden spoon, then knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8 to 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Although kneading by hand takes more effort, it yields excellent results if done thoroughly. Make sure to avoid adding too much extra flour during kneading, which can make the dough stiff and prevent the rolls from being light and fluffy.

Q3. Do I need to use bread flour, or will all-purpose work?
All-purpose flour works well and is commonly used in most copycat recipes for Texas Roadhouse rolls. However, bread flour can be used if you prefer a slightly chewier texture due to its higher protein content. If you substitute with bread flour, you may need to adjust the liquid slightly to achieve the right dough consistency. Both flours will produce delicious results, so it depends on your preference for softness versus structure in the finished rolls.

Q4. How long do Texas Roadhouse rolls last?
When stored properly in an airtight container or resealable bag at room temperature, the rolls will stay fresh for up to 3 days. For longer storage, they can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, let them cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven for best texture. Avoid refrigerating, as this can cause the rolls to dry out faster and lose their softness.

Q5. Can I freeze the dough instead of baking it immediately?
Yes, you can freeze the dough before baking. After the first rise, shape the dough into rolls and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, allow the rolls to thaw and rise for several hours until doubled in size before placing them in the oven. Freezing the dough is a great way to prepare ahead for holidays or events while still enjoying fresh-baked flavor and texture.

Texas Roadhouse Rolls

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• Author: Hamza

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Description

These homemade Texas Roadhouse rolls are soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet—just like the restaurant favorite. Paired with rich cinnamon honey butter, they make the perfect addition to any meal or holiday gathering. This easy-to-follow copycat recipe uses simple ingredients and yields bakery-quality dinner rolls straight from your own oven. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just want a comforting side for dinner, these rolls are sure to impress.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Rolls

• 1 tablespoon water, warmed (about 105–115°F)
• 6 tablespoons (75 g) granulated sugar, divided
• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 cup (245 g) whole milk, warmed (about 105–115°F)
• 7 tablespoons (99 g) unsalted butter, melted, divided
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 3 ½ cups (444.5 g) bread flour

CINNAMON HONEY BUTTER

• ¼ cup (½ stick / 57 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon

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Instructions

ROLLS

• In the bowl of a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment, combine the water, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and yeast, letting it sit for about 5 minutes (or until sugar and yeast are dissolved). (Note, this will be a thick mixture.)
• Add in the remaining sugar, milk, 6 tablespoons butter, and salt and mix until just combined.
• Add in the egg and mix to combine.
• Add the flour to the yeast mixture, and mix for about 3 minutes at medium-high speed. Scrape the dough into the center of the bowl.
• Knead the dough on low speed for 3-4 minutes.
• Lightly spray a large bowl with nonstick cooking spray. Place the dough into the bowl.
• Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours (or until doubled in size).
• Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Set aside
• Gently punch down on the risen dough to deflate it. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. (You can do this by continuing to divide the dough in half until you are down to 12 pieces. Or, roll the dough into a log and use a bench knife or stiff spatula to cut it into 12 pieces.)
• Round each piece into a smooth ball and place in the prepared baking dish, evenly spaced.

• Cover the rolls with a kitchen towel and let them rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes, or until about doubled.

• Preheat the oven to 350°F when the rolls are nearing the end of their rise time.
• Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
• Remove from the oven and brush with the remaining tablespoon of melted butter. Serve warm with the cinnamon honey butter.

CINNAMON HONEY BUTTER

• In a medium bowl, combine butter, confectioners’ sugar, honey, and cinnamon. Serve with the warm rolls.

 

Notes

• Make Ahead: After shaping the rolls, you can refrigerate the dough overnight. Let it come to room temperature and rise before baking the next day.

• Freezing Instructions: Freeze baked rolls for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and reheat in a 300°F oven for 10–15 minutes.

• Dough Freezing Option: You can also freeze shaped, unbaked rolls after the first rise. Let them thaw and rise before baking.

• Flour Tip: All-purpose flour works great, but bread flour will give a chewier texture if preferred.

• Butter Brushing: For extra softness, brush rolls with melted butter as soon as they come out of the oven.

• Cinnamon Butter Storage: Store leftover cinnamon butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Let it soften before serving.