
These pillowy Texas Roadhouse Rolls are the perfect copycat of the classic restaurant basket—tender inside, brushed with melted butter, and finished with a generous dollop of dreamy cinnamon honey butter. If you have ever grabbed a second helping at the restaurant, these rolls bring that experience right to your kitchen.
When I first tried these at home my family devoured them still warm from the oven and now I keep them in rotation for every special meal
Ingredients
- Active dry yeast: gives that signature rise and pillowy texture make sure it is fresh for the best result
- Whole milk: adds richness and helps keep the rolls tender use full fat for a softer crumb
- Unsalted butter: melts into the dough and also brushes over the baked rolls for extra flavor choose high quality butter
- Granulated sugar: sweetens the dough and helps brown the tops opt for pure cane sugar if possible
- Bread flour: provides necessary gluten for structure King Arthur or another trusted brand works well
- Kosher salt: balances the sweetness and flavor
- Egg: at room temperature gives structure and helps with tenderness choose free range or organic if possible
- For the Cinnamon Honey Butter
- Good quality butter: softened pairs best with aromatic cinnamon
- Confectioners sugar: creates a smooth creamy spread
- Honey: brings unmistakable floral sweetness local or raw is ideal
- Cinnamon: adds warmth and a fragrant twist use fresh ground if possible
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Yeast Mixture:
- Combine warm water a little sugar and yeast in a stand mixer bowl Let stand about five minutes until it looks thick and foamy You want the yeast to dissolve fully to encourage a good rise
- Mix Dough Ingredients:
- Add the rest of the sugar warm milk melted butter and salt Stir until just blended Crack in the egg and combine until smooth This should look like a rich batter
- Add the Flour and Mix:
- Gently add bread flour Start mixing on medium high for around three minutes then scrape down the bowl so the dough gathers in the center
- Knead the Dough:
- Switch to low speed and knead the dough for three to four minutes The dough should become stretchy and pull away from the sides but be soft and a bit tacky
- First Rise:
- Lightly grease a large bowl and place the dough inside Cover with a towel or plastic wrap Let it rest in a warm place one to two hours until doubled in size
- Shape the Rolls:
- Prepare a baking dish with nonstick spray Gently punch down dough to release air Divide into twelve equal pieces Shape into smooth balls and arrange in the dish evenly
- Second Rise:
- Cover the balls with a towel and let them rest in a warm place again for about thirty minutes They should almost double again
- Bake the Rolls:
- Set your oven to three hundred fifty degrees F and bake for twelve to fifteen minutes until golden brown tops are a sign they are done
- Finish and Serve:
- Immediately brush hot rolls with extra melted butter Serve warm and do not forget the cinnamon honey butter
- Prepare the Cinnamon Honey Butter:
- Mix softened butter confectioners sugar honey and cinnamon in a bowl until creamy Store at room temp if serving immediately

My favorite moments are making these in the kitchen with my kids dusted in flour and butter Their laughter and anticipation always remind me why homemade bread is worth every step especially when we all spread the honey butter together
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers let them cool before sealing in an airtight bag They freeze well up to two months Just thaw at room temperature and warm in a low oven or microwave before serving for fresh-from-the-oven taste
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have bread flour all-purpose flour can be used but the rolls may be a bit softer For the butter in the dough and spread try plant-based alternatives for a dairy free option If you want less sweetness reduce the sugar slightly without affecting texture
Serving Suggestions
Texas Roadhouse Rolls are perfect as an appetizer or side for holiday meals chili barbecued meats or Sunday dinner They also make amazing little sandwiches Split one open and fill with leftover turkey or ham and a swipe of cinnamon butter
Cultural Context
These rolls epitomize American comfort food Passed down and adapted over generations sweet dinner rolls often symbolize generosity and hospitality at the table This recipe captures that spirit with its buttery flavor and family-style sharing
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What makes these rolls so fluffy?
Using whole milk, bread flour, and a double rise ensures light, airy texture. Ample kneading helps develop gluten, resulting in pillowy rolls.
- → How do you keep the rolls soft after baking?
Brush them with melted butter right out of the oven, then cover loosely with a towel to hold in warmth and moisture.
- → Can the dough be made ahead of time?
Yes, after the first rise, the dough can be refrigerated overnight, then shaped and baked the next day.
- → How do you prepare the cinnamon honey butter?
Simply mix softened butter with confectioners' sugar, honey, and cinnamon until smooth and creamy.
- → Are these rolls freezer friendly?
Absolutely. Once baked and cooled, freeze the rolls in an airtight container. Reheat gently before serving.
- → Can all-purpose flour be used instead of bread flour?
Bread flour gives more chew, but you can use all-purpose flour; the texture may be slightly less springy.