Fluffy Texas Roadhouse Rolls Recipe with Easy Cinnamon Butter Spread

Let me tell you, the scent of freshly baked rolls wafting through the kitchen, warm and buttery, is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. The first time I baked these Fluffy Texas Roadhouse Rolls with Cinnamon Butter, I was instantly hooked—the kind of moment where you pause, take a deep breath, and just smile because you know you’re onto something truly special. Years ago, when I was knee-high to a grasshopper, my grandma used to surprise us with soft, pillowy rolls that seemed to melt in your mouth. Trying to recreate that magic led me to this recipe, and honestly, I wish I’d discovered it years ago.

My family couldn’t stop sneaking them off the cooling rack (and I can’t really blame them). These rolls have become a staple for our weekend dinners, potlucks, and holiday gatherings. Let’s face it, there’s something dangerously easy and comforting about soft rolls paired with a sweet cinnamon butter spread that just hits the spot every time. Perfect for brightening up your Pinterest cookie board or serving as a sweet treat for your kids, this recipe is an absolute winner. I’ve tested it multiple times in the name of research, of course, and it never fails to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Fluffy Texas Roadhouse Rolls Recipe

Honestly, this recipe isn’t just good—it’s the kind that makes you close your eyes after the first bite. Here’s why it stands out:

• Quick & Easy: Comes together in under 2 hours, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute cravings.
• Simple Ingredients: No fancy grocery trips needed; you likely have everything in your pantry already.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for brunch, potlucks, cozy dinners, or holiday mornings.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Always gets rave reviews from kids and adults alike.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The fluffy texture paired with buttery warmth and sweet cinnamon butter is next-level comfort food.

This isn’t just any roll recipe. The secret lies in the perfect balance of yeast, a little sugar for sweetness, and a touch of honey that gives these rolls a subtle depth. The cinnamon butter spread? It’s a simple blend but packs a punch with cinnamon’s warm spice and just the right amount of sweetness. It feels like comfort food reimagined—soft, sweet, but not overwhelming, making it the ideal companion for any meal or snack.

You’re not just making rolls; you’re crafting memories. Whether you’re impressing guests or indulging in a quiet morning treat, this recipe has got you covered.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and that signature fluffy texture without any fuss. Most of these are pantry staples, and substitutions are easy if needed.

• For the Dough:
  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for kneading) — I prefer King Arthur for consistent texture
  • 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
  • ½ cup whole milk, warmed (about 110°F / 43°C) — can swap with dairy-free milk if needed
  • ⅓ cup granulated sugar — adds just enough sweetness
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled (adds richness)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature (helps with fluffiness)
  • 1 tsp salt
• For the Cinnamon Butter Spread:
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (room temperature)
  • ¼ cup powdered sugar (for smooth sweetness)
  • 1 tbsp ground cinnamon (the star of the show!)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (adds depth)

Pro Tip: When selecting yeast, always check the expiration date—fresh yeast makes a world of difference. For a dairy-free option, swap the milk and butter with coconut or almond milk and vegan butter. In summer, try adding a pinch of nutmeg to the cinnamon butter for a seasonal twist.

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl — a glass or stainless steel bowl works best for yeast dough
• Measuring cups and spoons — accuracy is key in baking
• Stand mixer with dough hook (optional) — makes kneading easier but hand-kneading works fine too
• Pastry brush — for brushing melted butter on rolls
• Baking sheet or round cake pan — depending on your preferred roll shape
• Kitchen towel or plastic wrap — for covering dough during rising
• Small bowl and spoon — to mix cinnamon butter

Honestly, you don’t need fancy gadgets here. I’ve hand-kneaded these rolls more times than I can count, and while a mixer helps speed things up, it’s not a must. For those on a budget, using your hands and a sturdy bowl is perfectly fine. Just remember to clean your pastry brush well after each use since buttery residue can build up quickly.

Preparation Method

1. Activate the yeast (10 minutes): In a small bowl, combine warm milk (110°F / 43°C), sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit until foamy, about 5-10 minutes. If it doesn’t foam, your yeast might be expired or the milk too hot/cold.
2. Mix the dough (10 minutes): In a large bowl or stand mixer bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Add the melted butter, eggs, and the activated yeast mixture. Stir to combine until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough (8-10 minutes): If using a stand mixer, knead on medium speed with dough hook until smooth and elastic. If by hand, turn dough onto a floured surface and knead until soft and slightly tacky but not sticky. Add flour sparingly to avoid tough rolls.
4. First rise (1 hour): Place dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size. This is where the magic of fluffy rolls happens—don’t rush.
5. Shape the rolls (10 minutes): Punch down the dough gently to release air. Divide into 12 equal pieces (about 60g / 2 oz each). Shape each into a smooth ball and place them close together in a greased baking dish or on a baking sheet.
6. Second rise (30-40 minutes): Cover the shaped rolls again and let them rise until puffy and nearly doubled. They should feel soft to the touch but hold their shape.
7. Bake (15-18 minutes): Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls until golden brown on top. The smell at this stage is pure heaven—warm, buttery goodness filling your kitchen.
8. Make cinnamon butter (5 minutes): While rolls bake, combine softened butter, powdered sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla in a small bowl. Mix until creamy and spreadable.
9. Serve warm: Brush rolls with melted butter right after baking for extra shine and softness. Serve with cinnamon butter spread on the side or slathered on top. Honestly, you’ll want to eat them straight away while still warm.

Note: If your dough feels sticky during kneading, add flour by the tablespoon—not too much, or rolls can dry out. The dough should be soft but manageable. Also, avoid opening the oven door frequently during baking to keep the temperature steady.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here’s what I’ve learned after countless batches of these rolls:

• Yeast Activation: Warm milk temperature is crucial. Too hot, and you kill the yeast; too cold, and it won’t activate. Use a thermometer if you have one.
• Kneading: Proper kneading develops gluten for that fluffy, chewy texture. Don’t skimp here; it’s worth the effort.
• Rising: Patience is key. Let the dough rise fully—the rolls will thank you with extra softness.
• Butter Brushing: Brushing with melted butter immediately after baking keeps the crust soft and adds flavor. Don’t skip this step!
• Storage: These rolls are best fresh but keep well in an airtight container for a couple of days. Reheat gently to bring back softness.

One time, I rushed the rising step to save time and ended up with dense rolls—lesson learned! Also, when mixing cinnamon butter, make sure the butter is softened, not melted, to keep the perfect spreadable texture.

Variations & Adaptations

• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that includes xanthan gum. Keep an eye on dough texture—it may need a little extra moisture.
• Whole Wheat Rolls: Swap half the all-purpose flour for whole wheat for a nuttier flavor and added fiber. The texture will be a bit heartier but still soft.
• Herbed Butter: Instead of cinnamon butter, try mixing softened butter with garlic, chives, and parsley for a savory twist perfect for dinner rolls.
• Honey Cinnamon Butter: Add a tablespoon of honey to the cinnamon butter for extra sweetness and stickiness—my kids love this version!
• Overnight Rise: For a hands-off approach, refrigerate the dough after the first rise overnight. Just let it come to room temp before shaping and baking.

Personally, I’ve tried adding a pinch of cardamom to the cinnamon butter for holiday mornings—it adds a lovely floral note that’s unexpected but delightful.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These rolls are best served warm, fresh from the oven, with a generous smear of cinnamon butter. They make a perfect side for soups, stews, or breakfast spreads. Pair them with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk for maximum comfort.

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. To freeze, wrap rolls individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To reheat, pop rolls in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-7 minutes wrapped in foil to prevent drying out. The flavors actually deepen after a day or two, so they’re great for making ahead.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Each roll contains approximately 180 calories, 6g fat, 27g carbohydrates, 3g protein, and 2g fiber. The use of whole milk and butter adds richness, while the cinnamon butter spread provides a cozy touch of spice and sweetness.

Cinnamon has well-known antioxidant properties and can help regulate blood sugar, making this sweet spread a tasty way to sneak in a little health boost. For those watching carbs, you can reduce sugar slightly or swap butter for light versions without sacrificing much flavor.

Gluten-sensitive folks can try the gluten-free adaptation to enjoy this treat without worry. Just keep in mind that cinnamon butter contains dairy, so vegan alternatives would need a plant-based butter substitute.

Conclusion

If you’re after soft, buttery rolls that taste like a warm hug, these Fluffy Texas Roadhouse Rolls with Cinnamon Butter are worth every minute of your time. Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned pro, this recipe offers a wonderful balance of ease and delicious results that bring everyone to the table.

Feel free to customize the cinnamon butter or try one of the variations to make it your own. Honestly, I love this recipe because it brings back cozy memories and creates new ones with family and friends. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll want to bookmark it for good!

Don’t forget to share your thoughts, adaptations, or questions in the comments below—I love hearing how these rolls turn out for you!

FAQs About Fluffy Texas Roadhouse Rolls

How long do these rolls stay fresh?

They stay fresh at room temperature for up to 2 days in an airtight container and up to 5 days refrigerated. Freezing extends shelf life up to 3 months.

Can I make these rolls without a stand mixer?

Absolutely! Hand kneading on a floured surface works just fine, though it may take a bit more elbow grease.

What if my dough is too sticky?

Add flour a tablespoon at a time during kneading until it’s soft but not sticky. Avoid adding too much to keep rolls tender.

Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Yes, after the first rise, refrigerate the dough overnight. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

Is there a vegan version of the cinnamon butter?

Yes, use a plant-based butter and a vegan powdered sugar substitute to make a dairy-free cinnamon butter spread.

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