Texas Living

Recipe: Brisket Breakfast Rolls

By Eve Hill-Agnus 11.18.25

What could be cozier than waking up to the aromas of baking on a winter morning? Stuffed with brisket and cheese, smothered in tangy barbecue sauce, and sprinkled with chives, these rolls carry a hint of smokiness that’s folded into a pillowy dough. Think of them as the cinnamon roll’s savory sibling. They’re also a smart, delicious way to use leftovers. Snipped chives and chopped peanuts add flavor and jazz up a picture-perfect holiday brunch.

Makes 8 servings

Ingredients for brisket breakfast rolls on a table.
Photo by Natalie Goff; Styling by Kylie Valigura

Ingredients

Dough

  • 3/4 cup whole milk, warmed (about 110 F)
  • 2 tablespoons sugar, divided
  • 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 egg, room temperature and lightly beaten
  • 1 tablespoon minced chives
  • 1 tablespoon minced thyme
  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

Filling

  • 4 cups tightly packed chopped brisket
  • 2 cups barbecue sauce (optional), plus more for drizzling
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or cheddar cheese

Garnishes (optional)

  • Chives, minced
  • Dry roasted peanuts, chopped

Method

Step 1

Combine milk and half of the sugar in a medium bowl. Sprinkle yeast over the mixture and allow to sit for 4–5 minutes, until bubbles form.

Step 2

Stir in the remaining sugar, salt, butter, egg, and herbs. Add flour in batches, stirring to combine after each addition.

Step 3

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead 5–7 minutes or until elastic, adding more flour as needed.

Step 4

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and allow to rise in a warm environment until it doubles in size (about 1 hour).

Step 5

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Using a rolling pin, roll into a 12”x19” rectangle.

Step 6

Brush the surface of the dough with barbecue sauce (if using) and sprinkle 1 cup of cheese. Top with chopped brisket and cover with remaining cheese.

Step 7

Tightly roll the dough from end to end to form a log and pinch the seam to seal. Place the roll seam side down, trim the ends, and then cut into 8 even slices (rolls).

Step 8

Line 1–2 baking sheets with parchment paper and place the rolls (cut side up) at least 2 inches apart. Cover rolls with plastic wrap or a towel and allow to rise again for 30 minutes.

Step 9

Preheat the oven to 375 F. Remove the cover and bake the rolls for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown. Drizzle with more barbecue sauce (optional) and top with garnishes, as desired. Serve warm.

Hosting friends or family over the holidays? Review these tips to stay safe and sane while soaking up all the season has to offer.