There’s nothing quite like the rich, buttery goodness that Texas Roadhouse serves up. Remember those warm, fluffy rolls slathered in creamy butter that you can’t stop coming back for? Well, I’ve cracked the code to recreate that magic right in your own kitchen.
With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of love, you can enjoy that signature Texas Roadhouse flavor whenever you’re craving it. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want to treat yourself, this copycat recipe brings the taste of the steakhouse straight to your table.
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm whole milk (110°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted, divided
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
Tools and Equipment
To master the Texas Roadhouse Butter Copycat Recipe, having the right tools and equipment is essential. Here’s what you’ll need in your kitchen:
- Large Mixing Bowls
I use a set of sturdy mixing bowls for blending ingredients. Glass or stainless steel bowls are ideal as they handle temperature changes well.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurements ensure the perfect texture and flavor. I prefer using stainless steel measuring cups and spoons for precision.
- Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer
A stand mixer with a dough hook attachment makes kneading the dough effortless. If you don’t have one, a reliable hand mixer will work just fine.
- Baking Sheet
A heavy-duty baking sheet provides even heat distribution. Lining it with parchment paper helps prevent the rolls from sticking.
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat
These liners make cleanup a breeze and ensure the rolls bake uniformly without sticking to the sheet.
- Pastry Brush
A pastry brush is perfect for brushing melted butter over the rolls once they come out of the oven, giving them that signature glossy finish.
- Oven Thermometer
To achieve the ideal baking temperature, an oven thermometer ensures your oven is accurately calibrated.
- Cooling Rack
Allowing the rolls to cool on a rack prevents the bottoms from becoming soggy and maintains their fluffy texture.
- Dough Scraper
A dough scraper helps in handling and portioning the dough without overworking it, keeping the rolls light and airy.
- Kitchen Scale (Optional)
For the most precise measurements, especially with dry ingredients, a kitchen scale can enhance the recipe’s accuracy.
Instructions
I’ve perfected this Texas Roadhouse Butter Copycat Recipe to bring the savory, buttery goodness of their famous rolls right into your kitchen. Follow these steps to create warm, fluffy, and irresistibly delicious rolls.
Prep
- Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of warm whole milk (110°F) with 2 ¼ teaspoons of active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
- Mix Ingredients: Add ¼ cup of granulated sugar to the yeast mixture, followed by 1/3 cup of melted unsalted butter. Beat in two large eggs and 1 teaspoon of salt.
- Incorporate Flour: Gradually add 4 to 4 ½ cups of all-purpose flour to the bowl, mixing continuously until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment for this step.
Cook
- First Rise: Place the kneaded dough into a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm area for approximately 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape the Rolls: Once risen, punch down the dough to release air. Divide it into 12 equal pieces and shape each piece into a smooth ball.
- Second Rise: Arrange the dough balls on a heavy-duty baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Cover them again and let them rise for another 30 minutes until puffy.
- Preheat the Oven: During the second rise, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Assemble
- Bake the Rolls: Brush the tops of the risen dough balls with melted unsalted butter. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes or until the rolls are golden brown.
- Butter Finish: As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, generously brush them with more melted butter to ensure a rich, buttery flavor.
- Serve Warm: Transfer the rolls to a cooling rack to slightly cool but serve them warm for the best taste and texture.
Make-Ahead Instructions
As a chef passionate about perfecting recipes, I know how valuable it is to prepare components ahead of time. Here’s how you can make these Texas Roadhouse butter rolls in advance, ensuring you have fresh, warm rolls ready whenever you need them.
Refrigerate the Dough
- Prepare the Dough: Follow the recipe until the dough has completed its first rise.
- Shape the Rolls: Shape the dough into individual rolls as directed.
- Cold Rise: Place the shaped rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover tightly with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate: Store the rolls in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This slow rise enhances the flavor and texture.
Freeze the Dough
- Shape the Rolls: After the initial rise, shape the dough into rolls.
- Flash Freeze: Arrange the rolls on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze for 1-2 hours until firm.
- Store: Transfer the frozen rolls to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date.
- Freeze Duration: Keep the dough frozen for up to 3 months.
Baking from Make-Ahead Dough
From Refrigerated Rolls
- Bring to Room Temperature: Remove the rolls from the refrigerator 1-2 hours before baking to allow them to come to room temperature and complete their rise.
- Bake as Directed: Follow the original baking instructions, ensuring the rolls are golden brown.
From Frozen Rolls
- Thaw the Dough: Move the frozen rolls to the refrigerator overnight or let them sit at room temperature for several hours to thaw.
- Allow to Rise: Let the rolls rise until doubled in size, which may take longer than fresh dough.
- Bake as Directed: Proceed with the baking instructions, checking for a golden exterior.
Storing Baked Rolls
- Cool Completely: Let the baked rolls cool on a cooling rack to maintain their texture.
- Store Properly: Place the cooled rolls in an airtight container or zip-top bag.
- Reheat When Ready: Reheat the rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
By using these make-ahead strategies, you can enjoy the irresistible taste of Texas Roadhouse butter rolls anytime with minimal preparation.
Serving Suggestions
Once you’ve perfected these buttery, soft rolls, it’s time to think about how to serve them to elevate your dining experience. Here are some of my favorite ways to enjoy your Texas Roadhouse-inspired butter rolls:
Classic Pairings
- Melted Butter: Warm the additional butter and serve it in a small bowl for dipping. For an extra touch, infuse the butter with garlic or herbs.
- Honey Butter: Combine softened butter with honey for a sweet and savory spread that complements the rolls perfectly.
- Jalapeño Butter: Mix softened butter with finely chopped jalapeños and a pinch of salt for a spicy kick.
Main Dishes
- Grilled Steaks: These rolls are the perfect side for a juicy grilled steak. The buttery texture pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of beef.
- Roasted Chicken: Serve alongside a tender roast chicken for a comforting and satisfying meal.
- Hearty Soups and Stews: Use the rolls to soak up flavorful broths from your favorite soups or stews.
Creative Uses
- Mini Sandwiches: Slice the rolls in half and use them to make sliders or mini sandwiches with your favorite fillings like pulled pork, turkey, or veggie patties.
- Breakfast Baskets: Include the rolls in a hearty breakfast spread with eggs, bacon, and freshly brewed coffee for a delightful morning meal.
Presentation Tips
- Basket Arrangement: Arrange the rolls in a wicker basket lined with a cloth napkin. Brush the tops with melted butter for a glossy finish.
- Garnishes: Sprinkle the rolls with sesame seeds, fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, or a light dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
- Serving Tray: Place the rolls on a rustic wooden serving tray alongside small bowls of different butters and spreads for a beautiful and functional presentation.
Storage and Reheating
- Storing Leftovers: Keep any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.
- Reheating: To refresh the rolls, wrap them in foil and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will restore their soft, fresh-from-the-oven texture.
By incorporating these serving suggestions, you can transform your homemade Texas Roadhouse butter rolls into the centerpiece of any meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy family dinner, these versatile rolls are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.
Tips and Variations
Mastering the Texas Roadhouse Butter Copycat Recipe is just the beginning. Here are some tips and variations to elevate your buttery rolls to the next level.
Achieving the Perfect Rise
- Temperature Control: Ensure your milk is warm but not too hot. Aim for 110°F to activate the yeast effectively.
- Proofing Time: Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free area. Using an oven with the light on can create an ideal environment.
- Kneading Properly: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. This develops the gluten necessary for a fluffy texture.
Flavor Enhancements
- Garlic Butter: Mix minced garlic and chopped fresh parsley into the melted butter for a savory twist.
- Herb Infusion: Add dried herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for an aromatic flavor.
- Cheesy Rolls: Incorporate shredded cheddar or parmesan cheese into the dough for a rich, cheesy experience.
Dietary Modifications
- Whole Wheat Option: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added fiber.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and ensure your yeast is gluten-free to accommodate dietary needs.
- Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based butter to make these rolls vegan-friendly.
Make-Ahead Tips
| Method | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Refrigerate Dough | Let the dough rise, then cover and refrigerate overnight. |
| Freeze Dough | Shape the rolls, place them on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. |
Creative Serving Suggestions
- Sweet Twist: Drizzle honey or sprinkle cinnamon sugar over the warm rolls for a sweet treat.
- Stuffed Rolls: Fill the rolls with cream cheese, chocolate, or your favorite jam before baking.
- Savory Breakfast: Split the rolls and add scrambled eggs and bacon for a hearty breakfast option.
Presentation Tips
- Basket Arrangement: Arrange the rolls in a rustic basket lined with a kitchen towel for an inviting presentation.
- Garnishing: Sprinkle freshly chopped herbs or a light dusting of powdered sugar to enhance visual appeal.
- Butter Brushing: Use a pastry brush to evenly coat each roll with melted butter, ensuring they stay soft and flavorful.
Experiment with these tips and variations to make the Texas Roadhouse Butter Copycat Rolls uniquely yours. Whether you prefer them savory, sweet, or with a healthy twist, these suggestions will help you tailor the recipe to your taste and occasion.
Conclusion
Enjoying warm fluffy Texas Roadhouse-style buttery rolls at home has never been easier. There’s something special about pulling these golden rolls out of the oven the aroma filling your kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or simply craving that familiar taste this recipe brings a touch of your favorite steakhouse right to your table.
I love how versatile these rolls are perfect with any meal or even on their own. Give it a try and treat yourself—you deserve it!
