Soft, fluffy, and irresistibly sweet, Texas Roadhouse rolls are a favorite among bread lovers everywhere. These golden-brown rolls are not just a side dish—they’re the main event! Their pillowy texture and buttery glaze make them a perfect companion to any meal. Whether you’ve had them in the restaurant or are trying them for the first time, this recipe will bring the taste of Texas Roadhouse to your kitchen.
These rolls are perfect for any occasion. They shine at Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners as a crowd-pleasing bread option but are equally delightful for casual weeknight meals. Pair them with soups, salads, or hearty mains, and you’ve got a versatile addition to your menu. The lightly sweet flavor also makes them great for breakfast or a midday snack with some butter and jam.
What sets these rolls apart is their perfect balance of sweetness and fluffiness. The dough is enriched with milk and butter, giving it a tender crumb. Brushed with melted butter right out of the oven, they boast a shiny, golden crust that is hard to resist. This recipe breaks down the process step-by-step, making it easy to recreate these iconic rolls at home.
Why You’ll Love This Texas Roadhouse Rolls Recipe
This recipe captures the magic of Texas Roadhouse rolls while keeping things simple and approachable. The ingredients are pantry staples like flour, sugar, and butter, so you likely have everything you need on hand. The instructions are straightforward, making this a great recipe for beginners and seasoned bakers alike.
The rolls’ versatility is another reason to love this recipe. You can enjoy them as-is or dress them up with flavored butters, such as honey cinnamon butter, for an authentic Texas Roadhouse experience. They also freeze beautifully, so you can make a batch ahead of time and enjoy fresh rolls whenever the craving strikes.
Lastly, the sheer joy of baking these rolls at home is unparalleled. From the satisfaction of kneading the soft dough to the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake, this recipe is as much about the experience as it is about the result. It’s a labor of love that pays off with every bite of these deliciously sweet, buttery rolls.
Preparation Time and Yield
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Resting/Rising Time: 2 hours
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 20 rolls
Nutritional Information (Per Roll)
- Calories: 150
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 3g
Ingredients for Texas Roadhouse Rolls
For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
For the Topping:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Step-by-Step Instructions for Texas Roadhouse Rolls
Step 1: Activate the yeast.
In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. This step ensures the yeast is active and ready to help your rolls rise.
Step 2: Mix the dough.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the yeast mixture, melted butter, egg, and salt. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon or a dough hook attachment on a stand mixer. Mix until the dough comes together and pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
Step 3: Knead the dough.
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook for about 5 minutes on medium speed.
Step 4: Let the dough rise.
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
Step 5: Shape the rolls.
Punch down the dough and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it out to about 1/2-inch thickness. Use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter to divide the dough into 20 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball or a rectangular shape, depending on your preference.
Step 6: Second rise.
Place the rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Cover them with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until they’ve doubled in size.
Step 7: Bake the rolls.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 12-15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
Step 8: Brush with butter.
As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, brush them generously with melted butter. This step adds flavor and gives the rolls their signature glossy finish.
Ingredient Background
Milk
Warm milk acts as the liquid base, enriching the dough and giving it a soft texture. Using milk instead of water also adds a subtle sweetness. Ensure the milk is warm but not hot, as excessive heat can kill the yeast.
Yeast
Active dry yeast is the leavening agent that makes the rolls rise. If the yeast doesn’t foam during activation, it may be expired or the milk may be too hot or cold.
Sugar
A small amount of sugar feeds the yeast, helping it to activate. It also gives the rolls their slightly sweet flavor, which pairs perfectly with the buttery topping.
Butter
Butter adds richness to the dough and creates a tender crumb. Brushing the rolls with melted butter after baking gives them a shiny, flavorful finish.
Egg
The egg binds the ingredients and contributes to the rolls’ soft, fluffy texture.
Flour
All-purpose flour provides structure to the rolls. Measure accurately to avoid a dense or overly sticky dough.
Technique Tips for the Best Texas Roadhouse Rolls
Activate Yeast Correctly
Ensure the milk is around 110°F before adding the yeast. If it’s too hot, it can kill the yeast; if it’s too cold, the yeast won’t activate.
Knead the Dough Well
Proper kneading develops the gluten in the dough, giving the rolls their characteristic structure and chewiness. Knead until the dough is smooth and slightly tacky.
Allow Adequate Rising Time
Rushing the rising process can result in dense rolls. Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free spot until it doubles in size. A slightly warm oven (turned off) works well.
Shape Rolls Uniformly
Cut the dough evenly and shape each piece consistently to ensure the rolls bake evenly.
Brush with Butter Immediately
Brushing the rolls with melted butter as soon as they come out of the oven locks in moisture and adds shine.
Alternative Presentation Ideas
Mini Rolls
Create bite-sized rolls by dividing the dough into smaller portions. These are perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or snack platters. Serve them with dipping sauces like garlic butter, honey mustard, or marinara for a fun and interactive appetizer. Mini rolls are also great for kids’ lunchboxes or picnics.
Stuffed Rolls
Elevate your rolls with a surprise filling. Place a small cube of your favorite cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella, inside the dough before rolling. Alternatively, try a dollop of jam, Nutella, or even a savory mix like sautéed onions and herbs. These stuffed rolls can double as a quick snack or a fancy addition to a dinner spread.
Garlic Herb Rolls
For a savory twist, enhance the melted butter with minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, or parsley. Brush this mixture over the rolls before and after baking. The result is a fragrant and flavorful roll that pairs beautifully with Italian dishes like pasta or lasagna.
Honey-Glazed Rolls
Add a sweet touch by mixing honey with melted butter and brushing it over the baked rolls. For a bit of crunch, sprinkle coarse sugar or cinnamon on top. These honey-glazed rolls make a delightful breakfast treat or dessert accompaniment.
Pull-Apart Rolls
Arrange the shaped rolls close together on a baking sheet or in a round baking dish, allowing them to bake into a connected loaf. Pull-apart rolls are visually appealing and perfect for sharing. They’re ideal for festive occasions and are especially fun for kids to tear apart at the table.
Slider Rolls
Turn these rolls into slider buns for mini sandwiches. Fill them with deli meats, cheeses, pulled pork, or burgers for a casual meal or party option. You can even use them to create breakfast sliders with eggs, bacon, and cheese.
Cinnamon-Sugar Rolls
Repurpose the dough into a dessert by brushing it with melted butter and sprinkling with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar before baking. Add a drizzle of icing for a roll that resembles a cinnamon bun.
Freezing and Storing Texas Roadhouse Rolls
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them soft, include a piece of parchment paper or a napkin to absorb excess moisture.
Freezing Rolls
For freezing, let the rolls cool completely. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Freezing Dough
You can also freeze the unbaked dough after shaping. Arrange the shaped rolls on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before letting them rise and baking as directed.
Reheating Tips
Reheat rolls in the oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes or microwave them for 10-15 seconds to restore softness. Brush with butter after reheating for added flavor.
Healthier Twist Ideas
Whole Wheat Flour
Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to increase the rolls’ fiber content without sacrificing too much of their fluffiness. For a more rustic flavor, try incorporating spelt or rye flour into the mix.
Reduced Sugar
Cut back on the sugar in the dough to create a less sweet roll. This is especially great if you plan to pair the rolls with savory dishes like soups or stews.
Plant-Based Milk and Butter
Use almond, soy, or oat milk in place of dairy milk and swap the butter for a vegan alternative. This adjustment makes the rolls suitable for dairy-free diets while maintaining their soft texture and buttery flavor.
Add Seeds
Top the rolls with sesame, poppy, chia, or flax seeds before baking for added texture, flavor, and nutritional value. You can also knead some seeds into the dough for an even distribution.
Lower Fat Option
Incorporate yogurt or Greek yogurt into the dough as a substitute for some of the butter. This reduces the fat content while keeping the rolls soft and tender.
Increase Protein
Add a tablespoon of vital wheat gluten to the dough for a slight boost in protein and improved elasticity. This is particularly useful when using whole wheat flour.
Add Veggies
Mix finely grated zucchini, carrots, or spinach into the dough for a subtle way to incorporate more vegetables into your meal.
Serving Suggestions for Events
Holiday Dinners
Texas Roadhouse rolls are a must-have at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter dinners. Serve them warm with butter alongside classic holiday dishes like roast turkey, glazed ham, or green bean casserole. Their slight sweetness complements savory sides beautifully.
Brunch Spread
Pair these rolls with scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and fresh fruit for a balanced and satisfying brunch. You can also use them as a base for breakfast sliders with fillings like sausage patties, cheese, and a fried egg.
Soups and Stews
These rolls shine when served with hearty soups and stews. Their fluffy texture is perfect for soaking up brothy soups like chicken noodle, creamy chowders, or rich beef stew. For an added treat, serve with a small bowl of honey cinnamon butter for dipping.
Party Platters
Add these rolls to a charcuterie or grazing board. Surround them with cheeses, cured meats, olives, and spreads like garlic butter or herbed cream cheese. They’re a hit at parties and serve as a versatile addition to any platter.
Afternoon Snack
Enjoy the rolls as a light snack with a smear of jam, honey, or flavored butter. For a more decadent option, drizzle them with melted chocolate or caramel for an indulgent treat.
Picnic or Potluck
Texas Roadhouse rolls are easy to transport, making them a great addition to picnics or potlucks. Pair them with fried chicken, coleslaw, or a fresh pasta salad for a complete meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make Texas Roadhouse rolls ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough a day in advance. After the first rise, shape the rolls and store them in the refrigerator overnight. Let them come to room temperature and rise again before baking.
2. Can I freeze the rolls?
Absolutely. Bake the rolls, allow them to cool completely, and then freeze them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw them at room temperature and reheat in the oven for a fresh taste.
3. Why didn’t my dough rise?
If your dough didn’t rise, the yeast may have been inactive. Make sure the milk is warm (about 110°F) and not too hot, as heat can kill the yeast. Also, check that your yeast isn’t expired.
4. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, instant yeast works well. You can skip the activation step and mix it directly with the dry ingredients. However, the rising times may be slightly shorter.
5. How do I store leftover rolls?
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container or plastic bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them soft, include a piece of parchment paper to absorb excess moisture.
6. What’s another bread recipe I should try?
If you love buttery rolls, check out our Crescent Rolls. Their flaky texture and rich flavor make them a perfect companion for any dish.
7. What can I serve with Texas Roadhouse rolls?
These rolls pair well with a variety of dishes, including soups, salads, roasted meats, and casseroles. They’re also delicious on their own with butter, honey, or jam.
8. How can I reheat the rolls without drying them out?
Wrap the rolls in aluminum foil and warm them in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes. You can also microwave them for 10-15 seconds, covering them with a damp paper towel to keep them moist.
Conclusion
Texas Roadhouse rolls bring the comforting taste of restaurant-quality bread straight to your kitchen. Their soft texture, slight sweetness, and buttery finish make them a hit at any meal. Whether you’re making them for a special holiday dinner or a casual weeknight treat, these rolls are sure to impress.
What’s truly magical about these rolls is their versatility. From mini rolls for parties to slider buns for sandwiches, they adapt beautifully to any occasion. They also freeze and reheat wonderfully, allowing you to enjoy fresh rolls even on your busiest days.
The joy of making these rolls at home lies not only in their incredible flavor but also in the satisfaction of creating something so beloved from scratch. Gather your ingredients, follow this recipe, and prepare to experience the irresistible charm of Texas Roadhouse rolls in every bite!