Get ready to transform your kitchen into a Texas Roadhouse! Discover how to bake these incredibly soft, tender Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rolls. They’re even more irresistible when generously spread with our delightful Easy Cinnamon Honey Butter!

Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rolls with Cinnamon Honey Butter: Your Ultimate Guide

There are certain foods that transcend mere sustenance, becoming an experience, a memory, a craving that simply must be satisfied. For many, the legendary Texas Roadhouse rolls fall squarely into this category. These aren’t just any dinner rolls; they are a fluffy, buttery masterpiece, served warm with an accompanying mound of cinnamon honey butter that melts gloriously into every soft crevice. The moment you take a bite, you understand why they inspire such devotion.

If you’ve never had the pleasure of sinking your teeth into one of these iconic, pillowy rolls, prepare yourself for an absolute treat! The good news? You no longer need to visit the restaurant to enjoy them. We’re thrilled to share this meticulously crafted copycat recipe, allowing you to recreate the magic of Texas Roadhouse rolls right in your own kitchen. Imagine the aroma filling your home, the satisfaction of pulling apart a perfectly baked roll, and the sheer joy of slathering it with that sweet, spiced butter. Doesn’t that just make your mouth water?

The Allure of Texas Roadhouse Rolls: Why Bake Them At Home?

For those unfamiliar with the Texas Roadhouse restaurant chain, it’s renowned for its lively atmosphere, hand-cut steaks, and, of course, its complimentary basket of legendary rolls, often served even before your main course order arrives. These aren’t just an appetizer; they are a central part of the dining experience. Warm, incredibly soft, and impossibly fluffy, they arrive at your table with generous scoops of their famous cinnamon honey butter. It’s a combination that’s truly “to die for,” making it incredibly difficult to resist filling up on them before your dinner even begins.

The craving for these distinctive rolls and their sweet, spiced butter can be intense. Historically, satisfying that craving meant a trip to the restaurant, often resulting in a full dinner bill to boot. However, with this incredible homemade recipe, that’s no longer necessary. You can now whip up a batch of these glorious Texas Roadhouse rolls at home, saving money, enjoying them whenever the mood strikes, and even customizing them to your preference. The convenience of fresh-baked goodness anytime you desire is truly unparalleled!

Our journey to perfect this copycat recipe led us to a fantastic version from “Eat Cake For Dinner,” which served as the inspiration for this adaptation. We’ve refined and expanded upon it, and we’re confident you’ll find it as delightful and authentic as we do, bringing restaurant-quality rolls directly to your dinner table. Get ready to impress your family and friends with these melt-in-your-mouth masterpieces.

Essential Ingredients for Your Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rolls

The beauty of these rolls lies in their delightful simplicity. You won’t need any exotic ingredients; just a few pantry staples are enough to create this magical bread. Here’s what you’ll gather to achieve that iconic flavor and texture:

• Active Dry Yeast: This is the crucial leavening agent that gives the rolls their incredible rise and airy texture. Ensure your yeast is fresh for the best results.
• Warm Water: Vital for activating the yeast. The temperature is key – too hot will kill the yeast, and too cold won’t activate it sufficiently. Aim for around 105-115°F (40-46°C).
• Milk: Scalded and cooled to lukewarm. Scalding milk involves heating it to just below boiling point (until small bubbles form around the edge), then letting it cool. This process denatures proteins in the milk that can inhibit gluten development, resulting in a softer, more consistent crumb in your rolls.
• Sugar: A small amount initially feeds the yeast, encouraging it to activate. The rest contributes to the rolls’ characteristic subtle sweetness, balancing the savory notes and enhancing the overall flavor.
• Unsalted Butter: Melted and cooled. Butter is essential for adding richness, tenderness, and that irresistible buttery flavor to the dough. You’ll also need a little extra melted butter for brushing the tops of the baked rolls for that glossy, authentic finish.
• All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of our dough. Using good quality, unbleached all-purpose flour is recommended for optimal gluten development and texture. The amount can vary slightly depending on humidity, so pay attention to the dough’s consistency.
• Large Eggs: Eggs contribute significantly to the dough’s richness, moisture, and structure. They help create a soft, delicate crumb and add a beautiful golden hue to the rolls.
• Salt: Essential for balancing the flavors in the dough. It also plays a critical role in controlling yeast activity and strengthening the gluten structure. Don’t skip the salt!

Step-by-Step Guide to Baking Irresistible Texas Roadhouse Rolls

Creating these heavenly rolls is a truly rewarding process, and surprisingly manageable even for novice bakers. Follow these detailed steps carefully to achieve perfect results every time:

1. Activating the Yeast and Starting the Sponge

Begin by combining your active dry yeast with the warm water and a teaspoon of sugar in the bowl of your electric stand mixer. Gently stir, then let this mixture sit for 5-10 minutes. You’re looking for a foamy, bubbly surface, which indicates your yeast is active and ready to work its magic. This initial step creates a “sponge” that kickstarts the fermentation process and contributes to a richer flavor. Next, pour in the lukewarm scalded milk and the remaining half cup of sugar. Gradually add about 2 cups of the all-purpose flour, mixing with the dough hook until a medium batter forms. Mix thoroughly to ensure there are no dry spots. Allow this initial batter to rest for another 8-10 minutes until it becomes noticeably light and foamy. This second resting period further develops the yeast activity and flavor.

2. Developing the Main Dough

After the sponge has bloomed, add the slightly cooled melted butter, the two large eggs, and the salt to the mixer bowl. Beat these ingredients well with the dough hook until they are fully combined. Now, gradually add the remaining flour, a cup at a time, mixing on low speed until a soft, pliable dough begins to form. The exact amount of flour can vary based on factors like humidity and flour type, so observe your dough. It should pull away from the sides of the bowl but still feel slightly sticky and very soft. Avoid adding too much flour, as this can lead to dense, tough rolls.

3. The Art of Resting and Kneading for Optimal Texture

Once the dough has come together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Here’s a key secret to achieving truly fluffy yeast rolls: let the dough rest for about 10 minutes before you begin kneading. This crucial resting period, sometimes referred to as an “autolyse,” allows the flour to fully hydrate and the gluten to relax. This makes the dough much easier to knead and contributes significantly to a superior, tender texture in the final product. After resting, knead the dough until it is smooth, elastic, and satiny. You can do this by hand for about 10-15 minutes, or effortlessly with the dough hook attachment on your stand mixer for about 5-7 minutes on medium speed. The dough should feel supple and spring back slowly when gently poked.

4. First Rise (Bulk Fermentation)

Lightly grease a large mixing bowl (cooking spray works perfectly) and place your thoroughly kneaded dough inside, turning it once to coat all sides with oil. This prevents it from drying out. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap to create a warm, humid environment. Place it in a warm spot in your kitchen – a slightly warmed oven (turned off!), a sunny windowsill, or near a warm appliance – and let it rise until it has visibly doubled in size. This usually takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, but the exact timing can vary with the ambient temperature and yeast activity.

5. Shaping the Rolls: The Fun Part!

Once your dough has beautifully completed its first rise, gently punch it down to release the accumulated air. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Using a lightly floured rolling pin, flatten the dough into a large rectangle, aiming for a consistent thickness of approximately 1/2-inch. Now, for the signature Texas Roadhouse shape, fold the rectangle in half lengthwise (the shorter way) so it becomes a thicker strip, about 1-inch thick. Gently roll over the folded dough with your rolling pin to lightly seal the edges together. Allow this folded dough to rest again for another 10 minutes. This second, brief resting period further relaxes the gluten, ensuring the rolls stay wonderfully tender and fluffy.

With a sharp dough scraper or a pizza cutter, carefully divide the dough into individual rolls. For a truly authentic Texas Roadhouse experience, aim for generously sized square or rectangular shapes. This recipe typically yields about 24 rolls, but you can adjust the size to your preference. Arrange the shaped rolls on a greased baking sheet, leaving adequate space between them to allow for their final expansion during the second rise.

6. Second Rise (Proofing)

Cover the baking sheet loosely with a damp cloth or plastic wrap to maintain moisture. Return the rolls to a warm spot for their second rise, also known as proofing. Allow the rolls to proof for approximately one hour, or until they have nearly doubled in size again and appear visibly puffy. This final rise is absolutely critical for achieving that signature light and airy texture that makes these rolls so irresistible.

7. Baking and Finishing Touches

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the baking sheet with your proofed rolls into the preheated oven. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the rolls are beautifully puffed, golden brown on top, and cooked through. Keep a close eye on them, as baking times can vary slightly depending on your oven. For that truly authentic Texas Roadhouse shine and enhanced flavor, immediately upon taking them out of the oven, generously brush the tops of the hot rolls with a little more plain melted butter. This not only adds a lovely sheen but also infuses them with extra rich, buttery taste.

Serve these hot, fluffy, golden-brown rolls immediately with a generous dollop of homemade Cinnamon Honey Butter. The combination is pure perfection and promises a delightful culinary experience!

Crafting the Perfect Cinnamon Honey Butter: The Irresistible Companion

While the Texas Roadhouse rolls themselves are phenomenal, what truly elevates the entire experience is their iconic Cinnamon Honey Butter. It’s not just a spread; it’s a decadent, sweet, and spiced topping that melts gloriously into the warm rolls, creating an unparalleled taste sensation. And the best part? It’s incredibly simple to make at home, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor payoff!

How to Make Cinnamon Honey Butter:

You’ll only need four basic ingredients to create this luscious spread:

• Softened Unsalted Butter: It’s crucial that your butter is at room temperature for easy blending and to achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.
• Confectioner’s Sugar (Powdered Sugar): This adds sweetness and contributes to the butter’s velvety smooth texture. You can easily adjust the amount or even omit it if you prefer a less sweet spread, allowing the honey and cinnamon to shine more.
• Honey: Provides natural sweetness, a lovely golden color, and a delicate floral note that beautifully complements the cinnamon.
• Ground Cinnamon: The star spice of this spread. It adds warmth, a comforting aroma, and a distinctive flavor that pairs perfectly with the rich butter and sweet honey.

In a medium mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter for about 30 seconds until it becomes light, fluffy, and slightly whipped. This aeration makes the butter more spreadable and gives it a luxurious texture. Next, add the confectioner’s sugar (if using), the honey, and the ground cinnamon to the bowl. Continue beating on medium-high speed, making sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed, until all the ingredients are smoothly combined and the mixture is light, airy, and fluffy. This usually takes an additional 2-3 minutes. The resulting butter should be pale and cloud-like.

This exquisite butter and these fluffy rolls are, without a doubt, a match made in culinary heaven. A generous pat of the sweet, spiced butter melting into a warm, freshly baked roll is undeniably one of life’s simple, yet profound, pleasures. Once you try this homemade cinnamon honey butter, you’ll likely find yourself making it regularly to accompany various dishes. It’s not just for rolls; it’s fantastic on toast, bagels, English muffins, pancakes, waffles, or even spread over Pumpkin Biscuits, especially around the holiday season. Its versatility makes it a must-have in your kitchen!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Texas Roadhouse Rolls

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, absolutely! Instant yeast can definitely be substituted for active dry yeast in equal amounts, making your baking process even more convenient. Instant yeast particles are smaller and don’t require pre-hydration, meaning they can be mixed directly with dry ingredients. However, for this specific recipe, if you still choose to follow the initial step of dissolving it in warm water with sugar and letting it sit, it will help create a more robust “sponge” and provide extra assurance that your yeast is active. If you prefer to skip the resting period, simply combine the instant yeast with your flour and other dry ingredients, then proceed with adding the liquids and other components. For more detailed information on the differences and how to best substitute between yeast types, you can refer to this helpful article.

How should I store Homemade Texas Roadhouse Rolls to keep them fresh?

To ensure your homemade rolls stay as fresh and soft as possible, it’s crucial to allow them to cool completely to room temperature first. Storing warm rolls in an airtight container can create condensation, leading to soggy rolls. Once cooled, transfer them to a large zip-top bag or another airtight container. Stored this way on your kitchen counter, they will typically remain wonderfully fresh and delicious for 2-3 days. While they rarely last that long in most households, proper storage ensures you can enjoy every last one!

Can you freeze Texas Roadhouse Rolls?

Absolutely! Most breads freeze exceptionally well, and these Texas Roadhouse rolls are no exception. Freezing them is a fantastic way to enjoy a taste of Texas Roadhouse anytime, making them perfect for meal prep or unexpected cravings. To freeze, ensure the rolls are completely cooled to room temperature. Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn, then place the wrapped rolls in a heavy-duty freezer-safe zip-top bag or an airtight container. When stored correctly, they can maintain their quality in the freezer for up to 3 months.

To thaw and reheat, you have a few convenient options: you can let them sit on the counter overnight for a gradual thaw, or for a quicker method, warm them gently in the microwave (for about 30 seconds to a minute, depending on your microwave) or briefly in a preheated oven (at 300°F/150°C for 5-10 minutes) until they are soft and warm through. They’ll emerge tasting almost as good as fresh-baked!

While Texas Roadhouse Rolls are delightful any time of year, they truly shine on a holiday dinner table. Imagine them served warm alongside your succulent Herb Roasted Turkey and sweet, savory Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes. They’re definitely making a highly anticipated appearance on my Thanksgiving menu this year, and I simply cannot wait!

More Beloved Copycat Recipes to Try at Home

There’s a special kind of satisfaction that comes from successfully recreating your favorite restaurant dishes in your own kitchen. It’s not just about saving money; it’s about the joy of mastering a dish, experimenting with flavors, and sharing your homemade triumphs with loved ones. If you loved making these Texas Roadhouse Rolls, you’re in for a treat with these other highly popular copycat recipes:

• Copycat Olive Garden Breadsticks: Soft, garlicky, and perfectly salted, these taste just like the endless basket breadsticks from the famous Italian-American chain. A must-try for Italian food lovers!
• Copycat Chick-fil-A’s Frosted Lemonade: A delightful blend of tart lemonade and creamy vanilla ice cream, perfect for a refreshing, frosty treat on a warm day. It’s an instant classic!
• Copycat Chick-fil-A Frosted Coffee: For the coffee aficionados, this creamy, cold, and caffeinated drink is an ideal pick-me-up that perfectly rivals the original. It’s a delicious way to get your coffee fix!
• Copycat Chipotle Cilantro Lime Rice: Elevate your homemade burrito bowls, tacos, and Mexican-inspired meals with this flavorful, zesty rice. It’s incredibly easy to make and tastes just like takeout.

While all these copycat recipes are amazing and worth a try, this CopycatTexas Roadhouse Rolls recipe remains a personal favorite for its sheer comfort and deliciousness!

Discover More Delicious Homemade Bread Recipes

If you’ve fallen in love with the process and incredible reward of baking your own bread after making these Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rolls, then you’re in for an absolute treat! There’s a whole wonderful world of delicious homemade bread waiting for you to explore. From savory to sweet, here are some more fantastic bread recipes that are sure to become cherished family favorites:

• Grandma’s Italian Bread: Experience the comfort and tradition of a classic rustic loaf, perfectly crusty on the outside and wonderfully soft on the inside, just like it came from an artisan bakery. It’s perfect for dipping in olive oil or making sandwiches.
• Tropical Pineapple Bread: Craving something a little different and exotically sweet? This delightful quick bread is bursting with the sweet, tangy flavors of pineapple, instantly transporting you to a tropical paradise. It’s a delightful treat for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack.
• Savory Pepperoni Bread: An absolute crowd-pleaser and a guaranteed hit at any party, potluck, or game day gathering! This easy and incredibly flavorful bread, loaded with savory pepperoni and cheese, is always the first to disappear. It makes for a fantastic dinner side or a hearty, satisfying snack.
• Fluffy Asiago Herb Biscuits: Looking for another incredible bread option to elevate your dinner menu? These savory biscuits, generously infused with sharp Asiago cheese and aromatic herbs, are wonderfully tender and flaky, adding a gourmet touch to any meal.

FOLLOW US FOR MORE DELICIOUS RECIPES!

FACEBOOK ~
PINTEREST
INSTAGRAM ~
TWITTER
YOUTUBE

Keep an eye out for more of my easy and delicious recipes each week!

Watch the Video: Easy Texas Roadhouse Rolls Tutorial

See just how simple it is to bring these amazing dinner rolls to life by watching our step-by-step video tutorial!

Created by: Lynne Feifer

Texas Roadhouse Rolls

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes (includes rising time)

Yields: 24 rolls

This easy Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rolls recipe smeared with Cinnamon Honey Butter is just like the restaurant’s, and is melt-in-your-mouth delicious!

Print Recipe
Pin Recipe
Rate this Recipe

Equipment

• Medium saucepan
• 2 large mixing bowls
• Medium mixing bowl (for butter)
• Electric stand mixer (with dough hook)
• Large baking sheet
• Dough scraper or pizza cutter
• Plastic wrap
• Damp towel

Ingredients

For the Texas Roadhouse Rolls:

• 4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• ½ cup warm water (approx. 105-115°F / 40-46°C)
• 2 cups milk, scalded and cooled to lukewarm
• ½ cup plus 1 teaspoon sugar, separated (1 teaspoon for yeast, ½ cup for dough)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly, plus additional for brushing baked rolls
• 7-8 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons salt

For the Cinnamon Honey Butter:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• ¼ cup confectioners’ sugar (optional, for desired sweetness)
• ¼ cup honey
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

Texas Roadhouse Rolls:

1. In the bowl of an electric mixer (with dough hook attached), dissolve 4 teaspoons of active dry yeast in ½ cup warm water with 1 teaspoon of sugar.
2. Stir gently and let stand for 5-10 minutes until light and foamy. Then, mix in 2 cups scalded and lukewarm milk, the remaining ½ cup of sugar, and 2 cups of all-purpose flour to form a medium batter. Mix thoroughly.
3. Allow this batter to stand for another 8-10 minutes until it becomes light and foamy.
4. Add 3 tablespoons of slightly cooled melted butter, 2 large eggs, and 2 teaspoons of salt to the batter. Beat well until fully incorporated.
5. Gradually add the remaining 5-6 cups of all-purpose flour, about 1 cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms. The dough should pull away from the sides of the bowl but remain slightly sticky.
6. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and let it rest for about 10 minutes to relax the gluten.
7. Knead the dough until it is smooth, elastic, and satiny. This can be done by hand or with the dough hook for 5-7 minutes.
8. Lightly grease a large mixing bowl with cooking spray. Place the kneaded dough into the bowl, turning it once to coat with oil. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm area until it doubles in size (approximately 1 to 1½ hours).
9. Gently punch the risen dough down to release the air. Transfer it to a lightly floured surface.
10. Using a lightly floured rolling pin, flatten the dough into a rectangle about ½-inch thick.
11. Fold the rectangle in half lengthwise (the shorter way) to make it about 1-inch thick. Lightly roll over the folded dough to seal the sides together. Let it rest for another 10 minutes.
12. With a dough scraper or pizza cutter, cut the dough into 24 individual rolls. Place them on a greased baking sheet, leaving some space between each.
13. Cover the baking sheet loosely with a damp towel or plastic wrap and allow the rolls to rise in a warm area for about an hour more, or until they have nearly doubled in size.
14. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 10-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and cooked through.
15. Immediately upon removal from the oven, brush the tops of the hot rolls generously with additional melted butter. Serve warm.

Cinnamon Honey Butter:

1. In a medium mixing bowl, beat ½ cup softened unsalted butter with an electric mixer for about 30 seconds until lightly whipped and creamy.
2. Add ¼ cup confectioners’ sugar (if using), ¼ cup honey, and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon to the butter.
3. Continue beating on medium-high speed until the mixture is smooth, light, and fluffy (approximately 2-3 minutes), scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
4. Serve immediately with the warm Texas Roadhouse Rolls.

Notes

Nutritional information provided below is for the rolls only and does not include the Cinnamon Honey Butter. You can find the nutritional details for the butter by clicking the link.

Nutrition Facts (per roll, approximate)

Serving Size: 1 roll | Calories: 180kcal | Carbohydrates: 33g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 20mg | Sodium: 208mg | Potassium: 80mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 96IU | Vitamin C: 0.002mg | Calcium: 33mg | Iron: 2mg

This recipe was originally published on February 16, 2012. It has been thoroughly updated in format and with new photos on November 21, 2023, to provide the best possible experience.