Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the yeast mixture – In a small bowl, mix warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for five to ten minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is essential because it ensures that the yeast is active and will help the dough rise properly.
- Prepare the butter mixture – In a separate bowl, combine half of the melted butter, salt, and the egg. Mix well to ensure that the butter is evenly distributed.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients – Pour the yeast mixture and the butter mixture into a large mixing bowl. Slowly add the flour, one cup at a time, while stirring. Continue until a soft dough forms. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much, as this can make the rolls dense instead of light and fluffy.
- Knead the dough – Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about eight to ten minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Kneading develops the gluten, which gives the rolls their signature soft and chewy texture.
- First rise – Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for one to one and a half hours, or until it has doubled in size. The rising time will depend on the temperature in your kitchen. If your kitchen is cold, place the bowl in a slightly warm oven with the light on to speed up the process.
- Shape the rolls – Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Divide it into twelve equal pieces and roll each piece into a ball. Arrange them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving a little space between each one to allow room for expansion.
- Second rise – Brush the tops of the rolls with some of the remaining melted butter. Cover the baking dish and let the rolls rise for another thirty minutes until they become puffy.
- Bake the rolls – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for fifteen to twenty minutes, or until they turn golden brown. Be sure to check them in the last few minutes of baking to avoid over-browning.
- Final touch – Remove the rolls from the oven and immediately brush them with the remaining melted butter. If you want a slightly sweeter taste, drizzle them with honey for an extra layer of flavor. Serve them warm and enjoy.
Tips for Perfect Rolls
- Use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour for an even softer texture. Bread flour has a higher protein content, which helps create a chewier and fluffier result.
- If you want the rolls to have a more pronounced sweetness, add an extra tablespoon of honey to the dough. This will give them a slight honey-butter flavor, similar to what you would get at a restaurant.
- To make these ahead of time, you can freeze the unbaked dough balls. When ready to bake, let them thaw and rise before placing them in the oven. This is a great way to prepare fresh homemade rolls without making the dough from scratch every time.
- If you don’t have active dry yeast, you can substitute it with instant yeast. If using instant yeast, you can skip the activation step and mix it directly with the dry ingredients.
Why Homemade Rolls are Better than Store-Bought
Making these rolls at home allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring that they are free from preservatives and artificial additives. Store-bought rolls often contain unnecessary chemicals to extend their shelf life, whereas homemade rolls are made with simple, natural ingredients. Additionally, these rolls cost significantly less than buying from a restaurant or bakery, making them a budget-friendly option for families.
How to Serve These Rolls
These rolls can be enjoyed in many different ways. Serve them alongside a warm bowl of soup, a hearty stew, or a roasted chicken dinner. They also make excellent sandwich buns for sliders. If you have leftovers, toast them the next day and spread some butter or jam on top for a delicious breakfast.
Final Thoughts
If you are looking for a reliable, foolproof dinner roll recipe, this Texas Roadhouse Rolls recipe is a great choice. The combination of soft, fluffy texture and buttery flavor makes them irresistible. They are easy to make, require simple ingredients, and can be enjoyed with a variety of meals. Whether you are making them for a special occasion or just a casual dinner, these rolls will quickly become a favorite in your household.
For more homemade baking recipes, stay tuned for new ideas that are simple, delicious, and perfect for every occasion.