The phrase "Texas roll" can refer to several different products, making the calorie count a point of confusion for many. While some are thinking of the famous, unlimited bread offered at the Texas Roadhouse restaurant chain, others might be considering the pre-made frozen dough from a brand like Rhodes. The caloric information for each is quite different, and the additions made at the restaurant can elevate the final count considerably.
Texas Roadhouse Rolls: Calories and Nutrition
The most commonly known Texas roll is arguably the one served fresh and warm at Texas Roadhouse restaurants. However, the nutritional figures for these can be inconsistent due to the fresh, in-house preparation. According to some nutrition tracking websites, a plain fresh-baked roll from Texas Roadhouse may contain around 120 calories. Other sources suggest the number is closer to 200 calories without butter. This variance highlights that freshness and ingredient ratios can impact the final nutrition.
The Impact of Cinnamon Butter
For many, the true indulgence of a Texas Roadhouse roll lies in its accompanying cinnamon butter. This sweet, rich topping substantially boosts the calorie count. A single roll served with the signature cinnamon butter can have up to 227 calories. The butter alone is noted to add a significant number of calories and fat, which is an important consideration for anyone monitoring their intake. A single serving with butter features a macronutrient breakdown that is nearly half from fat.
- Serving Size: 1 Roll
- Calories (with butter): 227 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 11g
- Protein: 5g
Rhodes Texas Size Rolls: Calories and Nutrition
For those baking at home, Rhodes offers "Texas Size Rolls," a frozen dough product. These rolls provide a more consistent nutritional profile, as they are mass-produced with standardized ingredients. A single 2-ounce Rhodes Texas Size roll contains 150 calories. Since they are baked at home, any added butter or toppings are within your control, allowing for a more accurate calorie count per roll.
- Serving Size: 1 Roll (57g)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 2.5g
- Protein: 4g
Other Texas Roll Varieties
It's worth noting that a "Texas roll" can also refer to types of sushi rolls. For instance, an H-E-B Texas roll sushi contains significantly fewer calories, approximately 50 per piece. This highlights the importance of clarifying the food item when discussing calorie counts. These sushi rolls are often made with rice, avocado, and various fillings, resulting in a completely different macronutrient breakdown than their bread counterparts.
Texas Roll Calorie Comparison Table
| Item | Calories | Carbohydrates | Fat | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas Roadhouse Roll (Plain) | ~120–200 kcal | ~23g | ~2.5g | Varies by restaurant and preparation |
| Texas Roadhouse Roll (With Cinnamon Butter) | ~227 kcal | ~28g | ~11g | Includes significant added fat and sugar |
| Rhodes Texas Size Roll | 150 kcal | 28g | 2.5g | Consistent from frozen dough product |
| H-E-B Texas Roll Sushi | ~50 kcal per piece | ~5g | ~2g | A completely different food item, included for context |
How to Manage Calories When Enjoying a Texas Roll
For those watching their calorie intake, enjoying a Texas roll can be part of a balanced diet by following a few simple strategies:
- Control the Butter: The most effective way to reduce the calories from a Texas roll is to limit or skip the butter. The cinnamon butter is a major contributor to the overall calorie and fat content. Consider using a small amount of plain butter or a lighter, low-calorie alternative.
- Practice Portion Control: It's easy to lose track of how many rolls are eaten, especially with unlimited offerings. Being mindful of how many rolls you consume is key to keeping your meal on track. Instead of multiple rolls, consider having just one or two.
- Share with Others: If dining with family or friends, consider sharing the bread basket to reduce your individual portion size automatically.
- Save the Indulgence: If you want to enjoy the full roll-and-butter experience, make a conscious decision to enjoy it as a treat and adjust the rest of your meal accordingly. For example, choose a leaner main course or side dish to balance the meal's total calories.
- Choose the Right Type: If you are baking at home, the Rhodes rolls offer a consistent base calorie count. For a significantly lighter option, especially in a different food category, a sushi-style Texas roll is a low-calorie alternative.
Conclusion
The calorie content of a Texas roll is not a single number but depends on the type of roll and its preparation. A standard frozen Rhodes Texas Roll is 150 calories, while a restaurant-made Texas Roadhouse roll can be anywhere from 120 to 200 calories, and much higher with the addition of cinnamon butter. Understanding these differences allows for informed choices whether dining out or baking at home. Ultimately, managing your intake comes down to being mindful of your portions and toppings.
For more nutritional details, consult the official Texas Roadhouse nutritional information available on their website.
