Texas Roadhouse rolls and cinnamon butter have become legendary among restaurant bread enthusiasts. These warm, fluffy rolls paired with sweet, creamy cinnamon butter are a beloved staple that keeps diners coming back for more.
Making Texas Roadhouse rolls and cinnamon butter at home is achievable with the right ingredients and techniques. The rolls require basic bread ingredients like yeast, flour, milk, and butter, while the cinnamon butter combines butter, powdered sugar, honey, and cinnamon.
The process involves preparing the dough, allowing it to rise, shaping the rolls, and baking them until golden brown. Meanwhile, the cinnamon butter is whipped to create a light, airy texture. With a bit of patience and attention to detail, home cooks can recreate this restaurant favorite in their own kitchens.
Overview of Texas Roadhouse Rolls
Texas Roadhouse rolls are a beloved staple at the popular steakhouse chain. These soft, pillowy rolls are served warm and paired with a sweet cinnamon honey butter.
The rolls are made from a yeast-based dough that includes milk, sugar, eggs, and butter. This combination of ingredients creates a rich, slightly sweet flavor and tender texture.
Typically baked in square pans, the rolls come out as individual pull-apart squares. They have a golden-brown exterior and a fluffy interior.
The dough requires two rising periods: one after mixing and another after shaping. This process helps develop the bread’s structure and flavor.
Brushing the rolls with melted butter immediately after baking gives them a glossy sheen and enhances their buttery taste. Some recipes also include an egg wash before baking for extra color.
At Texas Roadhouse restaurants, these rolls are complimentary and often arrive at the table shortly after guests are seated. Their popularity has led to numerous copycat recipes for home bakers.
Key characteristics of Texas Roadhouse rolls:
- Soft and fluffy texture
- Slightly sweet flavor
- Square shape
- Golden-brown color
- Served warm
- Accompanied by cinnamon honey butter
Ingredients
Creating Texas Roadhouse rolls and cinnamon butter requires a mix of pantry staples and fresh ingredients. The rolls use common baking items, while the butter combines simple flavors for a sweet spread.
For the Rolls
For the rolls, gather all-purpose flour, active dry yeast, sugar, salt, milk, eggs, and butter. Use 4 cups of flour, 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast, 1/4 cup of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Warm 1 cup of milk to activate the yeast. Add 1 large egg and 1/3 cup of melted butter for richness.
Measure ingredients precisely for best results. Room temperature eggs and butter blend more easily. Sift the flour to remove lumps and incorporate air, resulting in lighter rolls. Use fresh yeast to ensure proper rising.
For the Cinnamon Butter
The cinnamon butter requires unsalted butter, honey, and ground cinnamon. Soften 1/2 cup of butter at room temperature for easy mixing. Add 1/4 cup of honey for sweetness. Incorporate 3/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon for warm, spicy notes.
Use high-quality butter for the best flavor. Choose a mild-flavored honey to complement the cinnamon without overpowering it. Fresh, aromatic cinnamon enhances the butter’s taste. Mix ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.
Utensils and Equipment Needed
Creating Texas Roadhouse rolls and cinnamon butter requires specific tools and equipment for optimal results. Having the right items on hand ensures a smooth baking process and delicious outcome.
Baking Tools
A large baking sheet or two 9×13-inch pans are essential for baking the rolls. Parchment paper or silicone baking mats help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. A pastry brush is useful for applying melted butter to the rolls before and after baking.
A sharp knife or bench scraper aids in dividing the dough into even portions. Plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel is needed to cover the dough during rising periods.
An oven thermometer ensures accurate temperature readings, crucial for proper baking. Cooling racks allow the rolls to cool evenly after baking.
Mixing Equipment
A stand mixer with a dough hook attachment is ideal for kneading the dough, but a large mixing bowl and wooden spoon can work for manual mixing. Measuring cups and spoons are crucial for accurate ingredient portions.
A small saucepan is needed to warm milk and melt butter. A whisk helps combine wet ingredients smoothly. For the cinnamon butter, an electric hand mixer or stand mixer with a paddle attachment works best for whipping.
A rubber spatula aids in scraping down bowl sides and transferring mixtures. Airtight containers are useful for storing leftover rolls and cinnamon butter.
Preparation Before Baking
Before baking Texas Roadhouse rolls, proper preparation is essential. Start by preheating the oven to 350°F (180°C). This temperature ensures the rolls bake evenly and develop a golden-brown crust.
Arrange the oven racks to position the baking sheet in the center. This allows for optimal heat circulation around the rolls.
While the oven heats, prepare the baking sheet. Line it with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Shape the dough into small, uniform balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each roll for expansion during baking.
Cover the shaped rolls with a damp towel or plastic wrap. Allow them to rise for about an hour, or until they’ve doubled in size.
Just before baking, brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter. This adds flavor and helps achieve a beautiful golden color.
For the cinnamon butter, combine softened butter, powdered sugar, honey, and cinnamon in a bowl. Whip the mixture until light and fluffy. Refrigerate until ready to serve with the freshly baked rolls.
The Dough-Making Process
Creating the perfect Texas Roadhouse rolls begins with crafting a soft, flavorful dough. This process involves carefully combining ingredients and developing the gluten structure through kneading.
Mixing the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly to distribute the yeast evenly. In a separate container, whisk together warmed milk, a beaten egg, and melted butter.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir until a sticky dough forms. Gradually add more flour, about 1/4 cup at a time, until the dough becomes manageable.
The dough should be soft and slightly tacky, but not overly sticky. Adjust the flour or milk as needed to achieve the right consistency.
Kneading the Dough
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Use the heel of your hand to push the dough away, then fold it back over itself. Rotate the dough a quarter turn and repeat.
To test if the dough is ready, perform the windowpane test. Stretch a small piece of dough between your fingers. It should form a thin, translucent membrane without tearing.
Once properly kneaded, shape the dough into a ball. Place it in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Proofing the Dough
After mixing the dough ingredients, it’s time to let the dough proof. This crucial step allows the yeast to work its magic, creating those signature soft and fluffy Texas Roadhouse rolls.
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Find a warm, draft-free spot in your kitchen for the dough to rest.
Let the dough rise for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. The exact time may vary depending on the temperature of your kitchen and the activity of your yeast.
Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air bubbles. This step helps create a more uniform texture in the finished rolls.
Shape the dough into individual rolls and place them on a baking sheet. Cover the rolls again and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes until they’re puffy and nearly doubled in size.
Proofing Tips:
- Ideal proofing temperature: 75-80°F (24-27°C)
- To test if dough is ready: Gently press with a finger; if the indentation remains, it’s properly proofed
- Avoid overproofing, as it can lead to collapsed or overly yeasty rolls
After the second rise, the rolls are ready for baking. Brush them lightly with melted butter before placing them in the preheated oven.
Shaping the Rolls
After the dough has risen, it’s time to shape the iconic Texas Roadhouse rolls. Gently punch down the dough to release excess air.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough into a large rectangle about 1/2 inch thick.
Cut the dough into evenly sized squares, approximately 2 inches by 2 inches. This will ensure uniform rolls that bake consistently.
Fold each square in half diagonally to form a triangle. Tuck the pointed end underneath and place on a greased baking sheet.
Leave some space between each roll to allow for expansion during the second rise. Cover the shaped rolls with a clean kitchen towel.
Let the rolls rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 30-45 minutes, or until they have nearly doubled in size.
Before baking, brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter for a golden, glossy finish. This step enhances both appearance and flavor.
Baking the Rolls
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the risen rolls from their warm resting place.
Place the baking sheet with the rolls in the preheated oven. Bake for 10-15 minutes, keeping a close eye on them.
The rolls are done when their tops turn a light golden brown color. Avoid overbaking to maintain their soft texture.
Once baked, remove the rolls from the oven. Immediately brush the tops with melted butter for extra flavor and shine.
Let the rolls cool slightly before serving. This allows the texture to set while still keeping them warm and inviting.
Serve the freshly baked rolls alongside the prepared cinnamon butter. The warm, soft rolls pair perfectly with the sweet, creamy spread.
For best results, enjoy the rolls within an hour of baking. If needed, they can be briefly reheated before serving.
Making the Cinnamon Butter
Creating the perfect cinnamon butter involves combining simple ingredients and whipping them to achieve a smooth, creamy texture. This sweet and aromatic spread pairs wonderfully with warm Texas Roadhouse-style rolls.
Combining the Components
Start with softened butter at room temperature for easy mixing. In a bowl, add 1/2 cup of unsalted butter. Incorporate 1/4 cup of honey for sweetness. Measure out 3/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and add it to the mixture. Some recipes include a small amount of powdered sugar for extra sweetness, typically 1-2 tablespoons.
A pinch of salt can enhance the flavors. Use high-quality ingredients for the best taste. Adjust the ratios slightly based on personal preference. For a larger batch, simply double or triple the quantities while maintaining the same proportions.
Whipping to Perfection
Use an electric mixer or stand mixer with a paddle attachment for best results. Beat the ingredients on medium speed until fully incorporated. This process usually takes 2-3 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing.
Continue whipping until the butter becomes light and fluffy. The color should lighten slightly as air is incorporated. Taste and adjust flavors if necessary. For a smoother texture, mix for an additional 1-2 minutes. Once satisfied with the consistency, transfer the cinnamon butter to a serving dish.
Chill for 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. The butter can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Serving Suggestions
Texas Roadhouse rolls are best served warm, fresh from the oven. Their soft, pillowy texture and buttery flavor shine when enjoyed immediately.
Present the rolls in a bread basket lined with a cloth napkin to keep them warm. Serve alongside the homemade cinnamon butter for an authentic Texas Roadhouse experience.
For a complete meal, pair the rolls with hearty entrees like grilled steaks, ribs, or chicken. They also complement salads and soups nicely.
Consider serving the rolls as part of a weekend brunch spread. They go well with eggs, bacon, and fresh fruit.
For casual gatherings, slice the rolls in half and use them to make mini sandwiches. Fill with deli meats, cheeses, or pulled pork for tasty sliders.
The cinnamon butter can be served in small ramekins or spread directly on the rolls. Offer plain butter as an alternative for those who prefer a traditional option.
Leftover rolls can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. Reheat briefly in the microwave or oven before serving to restore their soft texture.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftover Texas Roadhouse rolls in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
To freeze the rolls, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
When reheating, the oven method produces the best results. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and wrap the rolls in aluminum foil. Heat for 5-7 minutes until warm throughout.
For a quicker option, use the microwave. Place a roll on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make the roll tough.
To enhance flavor, brush the reheated rolls with melted butter or garlic butter. Sprinkle with sea salt or cinnamon sugar for added taste.
The cinnamon butter can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. To soften before serving, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
For best results, reheat only the amount of rolls you plan to eat immediately. This ensures optimal texture and flavor for each serving.