**Texas Roadhouse Rolls Recipe**
### Introduction:
Texas Roadhouse’s signature rolls are soft, warm, and slightly sweet, often served with a creamy cinnamon butter that makes them irresistibly delicious. Known for their pillowy texture and heavenly taste, these rolls have become a fan favorite at the famous restaurant. Recreating this recipe at home will bring the same satisfying experience of a fresh, warm roll straight from the oven, paired with a rich, buttery spread.
### Origin and Cultural Significance:
Texas Roadhouse is a popular American chain restaurant founded in 1993 by W. Kent Taylor. Its first location opened in Clarksville, Indiana, and it quickly became known for its casual atmosphere, delicious steaks, and warm, inviting service. The rolls, alongside their signature cinnamon butter, became one of the restaurant’s trademark items and are now an iconic part of the dining experience. These rolls draw inspiration from Southern and Texan cooking traditions, where bread and butter are a staple of comfort food, and they represent warmth, hospitality, and indulgence.
### Ingredients Quantity:
**For the Rolls:**
– 1 ½ cups warm milk (about 110°F)
– ½ cup white sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for kneading)
– ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs (room temperature)
**For the Cinnamon Butter:**
– ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
– ¼ cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 pinch of salt
### Optional Additions:
– 1 tablespoon of melted butter (for brushing the rolls after baking)
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (for enhanced flavor in the butter)
– ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg (for extra spice in the butter)
– Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can be added to the dough for a savory twist.
### Tips for Success:
1. **Yeast Activation:** Make sure the milk is not too hot; it should be around 110°F. Too hot can kill the yeast, while too cold won’t activate it properly.
2. **Kneading the Dough:** Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. This helps the rolls become soft and fluffy.
3. **Rising Time:** Allow the dough to rise in a warm place. This process may take about an hour. Make sure the dough doubles in size for the perfect texture.
4. **Don’t Overcrowd the Rolls:** When placing the rolls on the baking sheet, make sure they have room to expand as they bake, resulting in fluffier rolls.
5. **Cinnamon Butter:** Make the cinnamon butter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. It’s best served at room temperature when paired with the rolls.
### Instructions:
1. **Activate Yeast:** In a bowl, warm the milk and add the sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved. Sprinkle the yeast over the milk and allow it to sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
2. **Make the Dough:** In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and melted butter. Add the frothy yeast mixture along with the eggs. Mix to form a dough.
3. **Knead the Dough:** Flour a surface lightly and knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. **First Rise:** Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. **Shape the Rolls:** Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and place them on a greased baking sheet, leaving some space between each.
6. **Second Rise:** Cover the rolls and let them rise for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until they puff up.
7. **Bake the Rolls:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
8. **Prepare Cinnamon Butter:** While the rolls are baking, mix all the cinnamon butter ingredients together until smooth and creamy.
9. **Serve:** Once the rolls are done, brush them with melted butter for extra flavor and serve them warm with cinnamon butter.
### Description:
Texas Roadhouse Rolls are delightfully soft, slightly sweet, and have a light, airy texture. When baked fresh, they are golden brown on the outside with a soft and tender interior. The accompanying cinnamon butter is sweet, creamy, and perfectly complements the rolls, making them an irresistible treat. These rolls are perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or simply as a comforting snack.
### Nutritional Information (per roll, approximate):
– **Calories:** 160-200 kcal
– **Carbohydrates:** 30g
– **Protein:** 4g
– **Fat:** 4g
– **Sodium:** 200mg
– **Fiber:** 1g
– **Sugar:** 5g
### Conclusion:
Texas Roadhouse Rolls are an absolute favorite for many, combining a fluffy texture with a slight sweetness that makes them stand out. Whether served with dinner or as a snack, these rolls paired with cinnamon butter are a delightful indulgence. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can bring the magic of Texas Roadhouse into your own kitchen.
### Recommendation:
If you’re looking to impress guests or enjoy a warm, comforting treat at home, Texas Roadhouse Rolls are a fantastic choice. They’re perfect for a family dinner, holiday gatherings, or even as an appetizer for a more casual meal. Make sure to pair them with the cinnamon butter for the full Texas Roadhouse experience. These rolls are a great way to embrace healthful indulgence by enjoying them in moderation while savoring every bite!