Texas Roadhouse Copycat Honey Cinnamon Rolls

Instructions

1. 1

   In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the warm water and 1 tablespoon of the granulated sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy, indicating the yeast is active.

2. 2

   To the yeast mixture, add the warm milk, remaining granulated sugar, egg, salt, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.

3. 3

   Gradually add 3 cups of the all-purpose flour, mixing on low speed with a dough hook (or with a wooden spoon) until just combined.

4. 4

   Continue adding flour ½ cup at a time until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl and is no longer sticky, but still soft and pliable. Knead on medium-low speed for 5-7 minutes with a dough hook (or by hand on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes) until the dough is smooth and elastic.

5. 5

   Lightly grease a large bowl with oil. Place the dough in the bowl, turning once to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until doubled in size.

6. 6

   Gently punch down the risen dough to release air. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into 12-16 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a smooth ball.

7. 7

   Arrange the shaped rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving some space between them. Cover loosely with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and let them rise in a warm place for another 30-45 minutes, or until puffy.

8. 8

   While the rolls are rising for the second time, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

9. 9

   Bake the rolls for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown on top. For an even softer crust, you can brush them with a little melted butter immediately after removing them from the oven.

10. 10

    While the rolls are baking, prepare the honey cinnamon butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, honey, ground cinnamon, and optional pinch of salt. Beat with an electric mixer (or whisk vigorously) until light and fluffy.

11. 11

    Serve the warm rolls immediately with the homemade honey cinnamon butter.