Texas Roadhouse Rolls

Texas Roadhouse Rolls are renowned for their soft, fluffy texture and sweet, buttery flavor. Making these rolls at home can be a rewarding experience, filling your kitchen with the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread. This recipe will guide you through the process of creating these delectable rolls, perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or any time you crave a delicious, homemade treat.

Ingredients:

• 4 tsp. active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup warm water
• 2 cups milk, scalded and cooled to lukewarm
• 3 tablespoons melted butter, slightly cooled
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 quarts all-purpose flour (7-8 cups)
• 2 whole eggs
• 2 tsp. salt

Instructions:

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

1. Mix Yeast and Water: In a small bowl, combine 4 teaspoons of active dry yeast with 1/2 cup warm water (about 110°F). Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy and bubbly.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

1. Scald the Milk: In a saucepan, heat 2 cups of milk until it just begins to boil, then remove from heat. Allow it to cool to lukewarm (about 110°F).
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the scalded milk, 3 tablespoons of melted butter, and 1/2 cup of sugar. Mix well until the sugar dissolves.
3. Add Yeast Mixture: Pour the frothy yeast mixture into the milk mixture. Stir to combine.
4. Add Eggs: Beat 2 whole eggs and add them to the mixture. Stir until well combined.
5. Incorporate Flour and Salt: Gradually add 7-8 cups of all-purpose flour and 2 teaspoons of salt to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

1. Knead: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 10 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic. You may need to add more flour if the dough is too sticky.

Step 4: First Rise

1. Let Dough Rise: Place the dough in a large, greased bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape the Rolls

1. Punch Down Dough: After the first rise, punch down the dough to release the air.
2. Shape Rolls: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/2-inch thickness. Cut the dough into squares or rectangles, about 2×2 inches.

Step 6: Second Rise

1. Prepare Baking Sheet: Place the dough squares onto a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Leave some space between each roll to allow for rising.
2. Second Rise: Cover the rolls with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30-40 minutes, or until doubled in size.

Step 7: Bake the Rolls

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake: Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Step 8: Finishing Touch

1. Brush with Butter: As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, brush the tops with melted butter for a deliciously soft and shiny finish.

Cooking Notes and Variations

Cooking Tips:

• Yeast Activation: Ensure the water for the yeast is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast. The ideal temperature is around 110°F.
• Scalding Milk: Scalding the milk helps to enhance the texture of the rolls by breaking down proteins that can inhibit yeast activity.

Variations:

• Honey Butter Rolls: Add a touch of honey to the melted butter for brushing the rolls after baking for a sweet and glossy finish.
• Herb-Infused Rolls: Add chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for a fragrant twist.

Serving Suggestions:

• Accompaniments: Serve these rolls with cinnamon butter, honey butter, or simply plain butter for a delightful experience.
• Pairings: These rolls pair perfectly with hearty soups, stews, or your favorite holiday meals.

Storage and Reheating:

• Storage: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. Let the dough come to room temperature and rise properly before baking.

2. Can I freeze the rolls?

Absolutely! Freeze the baked rolls in an airtight container. To reheat, thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven before serving.

3. What if I don’t have a thermometer for the water and milk?

If you don’t have a thermometer, the water should feel warm to the touch but not hot. Similarly, the scalded milk should be warm but not scalding before adding to the yeast mixture.

4. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can use instant yeast. If using instant yeast, you can mix it directly with the flour without needing to proof it in water first. Adjust the amount to 3 teaspoons of instant yeast.

5. How do I ensure my rolls are fluffy?

Make sure to knead the dough until smooth and elastic, and allow adequate rising time in a warm, draft-free environment. Proper kneading and rising ensure fluffy rolls.

6. What if my dough is too sticky?

Gradually add more flour, a little at a time, while kneading until the dough is smooth and no longer sticky.

7. Can I use whole wheat flour?

You can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Note that using whole wheat flour may result in denser rolls. Start with replacing 1-2 cups of all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour and adjust as needed.

8. How can I make the rolls sweeter?

Increase the amount of sugar to 3/4 cup if you prefer sweeter rolls. You can also add a tablespoon of honey to the dough for additional sweetness.

9. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While butter gives the best flavor, you can substitute margarine if needed. The texture may vary slightly.

10. What other shapes can I make with the dough?

You can shape the dough into knots, braids, or even small buns. Be creative and shape the rolls to suit your preferences.

Homemade Texas Roadhouse Rolls are a delightful addition to any meal. With their soft, fluffy texture and slightly sweet flavor, these rolls are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether served fresh out of the oven or reheated for later enjoyment, they provide a comforting and satisfying experience. This recipe is easy to follow and offers room for customization, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. Enjoy the warm, buttery goodness of these rolls and impress your family and friends with your baking skills. Happy baking!