Name: Easy Rocky Road Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 16
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups semi sweet chocolate chips; ¾ cup peanut butter; 3 cups mini marshmallows; 1 cup Walnuts; ½ cups peanuts

Rocky road is a delightful treat that combines the richness of semi-sweet chocolate chips with the creamy texture of peanut butter. Add in the crunch of walnuts and peanuts, and you have a snack that's both satisfying and indulgent. Perfect for any occasion, this easy recipe will surely become a favorite.

Photos of Easy Rocky Road Recipe

Most of the ingredients for this recipe are commonly found in many households. However, if you don't typically have semi-sweet chocolate chips or peanut butter on hand, you might need to grab those at the supermarket. Additionally, mini marshmallows and walnuts may not be pantry staples for everyone, so be sure to check your stock before starting.

Ingredients For Easy Rocky Road Recipe

semi sweet chocolate chips: These provide the base flavor and texture for the rocky road, giving it a rich chocolate taste.

peanut butter: Adds a creamy, nutty flavor that balances well with the chocolate.

mini marshmallows: These add a soft, chewy texture and a bit of sweetness.

walnuts: Provide a crunchy texture and a slightly bitter flavor that contrasts nicely with the sweetness.

peanuts: Add an extra crunch and a salty element to balance the sweetness.

One reader, Irene Hendrickson says:

This easy rocky road recipe is a delight! The combination of chocolate, peanut butter, and nuts is heavenly. The marshmallows add a perfect chewy texture. Simple to make and absolutely delicious.

Irene Hendrickson

Techniques Required for Perfecting This Recipe

How to melt chocolate and peanut butter: Melt the chocolate chips and peanut butter together in a small pot over low heat, stirring continuously until smooth. How to line a pan with foil: Place a sheet of foil inside a 9x9-inch pan, pressing it into the corners and up the sides to create a smooth surface for the mixture. How to refrigerate until firm: Place the pan in the refrigerator and let it chill until the mixture is firm to the touch, which typically takes a few hours.

How To Make Easy Rocky Road

Our 5-ingredient rocky road recipe allows you to make a rich and decadent dessert! This no-bake, fudgy treat can easily be made in just under 30 minutes.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking:

Total: 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2cupssemi sweet chocolate chips
¾cuppeanut butter
3cupsmini marshmallows
1cupwalnuts,coarsely chopped
½cupspeanuts,chopped

Instructions

Line a 9×9-inch pan with foil.
Melt together the chocolate chips and peanut butter in a small pot over low heat until smooth.
Stir in the walnuts and peanuts, then remove from the heat. Allow to cool for 3 to 4 minutes.
Add the marshmallows, then stir to coat.
Spread the mixture in the pan, then refrigerate until firm.
Cut into squares, serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 233.44kcal
Fat: 15.13g
Saturated Fat: 5.39g
Trans Fat: 0.01g
Monounsaturated Fat: 6.44g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.56g
Carbohydrates: 24.91g
Fiber: 2.29g
Sugar: 18.67g
Protein: 4.98g
Sodium: 12.76mg
Calcium: 17.57mg
Potassium: 180.15mg
Iron: 1.13mg
Vitamin A: 0.00µg
Vitamin C: 0.00mg

Time-Saving Tips for Busy Cooks

Melt chocolate faster: Use a microwave to melt the chocolate chips and peanut butter in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

Pre-chop nuts: Buy pre-chopped walnuts and peanuts to save prep time.

Use parchment paper: Line the pan with parchment paper instead of foil for easier removal and cleanup.

Cool quickly: Place the pan in the freezer for 15-20 minutes to firm up the rocky road faster.

Batch work: Double the recipe and use a larger pan to make more rocky road at once, saving time on future batches.

Substitute Ingredients For Easy Rocky Road Recipe

semi sweet chocolate chips - Substitute with dark chocolate chips: Dark chocolate chips provide a richer flavor and are slightly less sweet, which can balance the sweetness of the marshmallows.
semi sweet chocolate chips - Substitute with milk chocolate chips: Milk chocolate chips will make the rocky road sweeter and creamier, appealing to those who prefer a milder chocolate taste.
peanut butter - Substitute with almond butter: Almond butter offers a different nutty flavor and can be a good alternative for those with peanut allergies.
peanut butter - Substitute with sunflower seed butter: Sunflower seed butter is a great nut-free option that still provides a creamy texture and nutty taste.
mini marshmallows - Substitute with regular marshmallows (cut into smaller pieces): If you don't have mini marshmallows, you can cut regular-sized marshmallows into smaller pieces to achieve a similar texture.
mini marshmallows - Substitute with marshmallow fluff: Marshmallow fluff can be used to provide the same sweetness and gooey texture, though it may be slightly messier to mix.
walnuts - Substitute with pecans: Pecans have a similar texture and nutty flavor, making them a good alternative to walnuts.
walnuts - Substitute with almonds: Almonds add a different crunch and flavor, offering a unique twist to the rocky road.
peanuts - Substitute with cashews: Cashews provide a creamy texture and a slightly sweeter taste, which can complement the other ingredients well.
peanuts - Substitute with hazelnuts: Hazelnuts add a rich, nutty flavor and a satisfying crunch, enhancing the overall taste of the rocky road.

Impress Your Guests: Presentation Ideas

Use high-quality ingredients: Ensure that the semi sweet chocolate chips, peanut butter, mini marshmallows, walnuts, and peanuts are of the finest quality to enhance the overall flavor and texture.
Create uniform squares: Cut the rocky road into perfectly even squares to give a professional and polished look.
Garnish with flair: Add a light dusting of cocoa powder or a drizzle of melted white chocolate over the top for an elegant touch.
Serve on a stylish platter: Present the rocky road on a sleek, modern platter or a rustic wooden board to complement the aesthetic of the dish.
Add a touch of gold: Use edible gold leaf sparingly on a few pieces to add a luxurious and eye-catching element.
Pair with a complementary beverage: Serve with a small glass of espresso or a dessert wine to enhance the tasting experience.
Incorporate texture contrast: Place the rocky road on a bed of finely chopped nuts or crushed graham crackers to add an extra layer of texture.
Highlight the ingredients: Arrange a few whole walnuts and peanuts around the platter to showcase the key components of the dish.
Use a clean, minimalist presentation: Keep the presentation simple and uncluttered to let the rocky road be the star of the show.
Add a pop of color: Include a few fresh berries or a sprig of mint on the side to add a vibrant contrast to the rich, chocolatey tones.

Essential Kitchen Tools You'll Need

9x9-inch pan: This is the container where you will spread the rocky road mixture to set and firm up in the refrigerator.
Foil: Used to line the pan, making it easier to remove the rocky road once it has set.
Small pot: Necessary for melting the chocolate chips and peanut butter together over low heat.
Spatula: Useful for stirring the mixture and ensuring everything is well combined.
Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring out the ingredients like chocolate chips, peanut butter, marshmallows, walnuts, and peanuts.
Refrigerator: Used to chill the rocky road mixture until it becomes firm.
Knife: Needed to cut the set rocky road into squares for serving.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to cut the rocky road into squares.

Preserving Freshness: Storage and Freezing Guidelines

Allow the rocky road to cool completely before storing. This will help prevent condensation from forming and making the chocolate and marshmallows soggy.
Once cooled, cut the rocky road into desired pieces and place them in an airtight container. Separate the layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Store the container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Rocky road will keep well at room temperature for up to 1 week.
For longer storage, you can freeze rocky road:
- Wrap the cut pieces individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place the wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
To thaw frozen rocky road, remove the desired amount from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes to 1 hour. Do not refreeze once thawed.
If you prefer a firmer texture, you can store the rocky road in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Fascinating Trivia About Rocky Road

A fun fact about this rocky road recipe is that it combines the creamy texture of melted chocolate chips and peanut butter with the crunchiness of walnuts and peanuts, creating a delightful contrast in every bite.

Budget-Friendly: Is This Recipe Economical?

This rocky road recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like semi-sweet chocolate chips, peanut butter, mini marshmallows, walnuts, and peanuts are relatively affordable and can be found in most grocery stores. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-$12 USD. Given the simplicity and the delightful taste, I would rate this recipe a solid 8 out of 10.

Is This Delectable Treat Healthy or Unhealthy?

This rocky road recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main ingredients - chocolate chips, peanut butter, marshmallows, walnuts, and peanuts - are all high in calories, sugar, and fat. Consuming such treats in excess can contribute to weight gain and other health issues like diabetes and heart disease.

However, there are some redeeming qualities:

Walnuts and peanuts provide healthy fats, protein, and fiber
Dark chocolate (if used instead of semi-sweet) contains antioxidants

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Use dark chocolate chips with at least 70% cocoa content for increased antioxidants and less sugar
Replace regular peanut butter with a natural, unsweetened variety to reduce added sugars and oils
Decrease the amount of marshmallows or use a low-sugar alternative
Increase the proportion of nuts to boost protein, fiber, and healthy fats
Use a smaller pan or cut into smaller pieces to encourage portion control

Additionally, you could experiment with adding dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for natural sweetness and extra nutrients. Toasted coconut flakes would also provide a nice crunch and healthy fats.

Remember, treats like rocky road are meant to be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods as the foundation of your meals, and savor these indulgences occasionally.

Editor's Opinion: Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This easy rocky road recipe is a delightful blend of textures and flavors, perfect for a quick and satisfying treat. The combination of semi-sweet chocolate and peanut butter creates a rich, creamy base, while the walnuts and peanuts add a satisfying crunch. The mini marshmallows provide a soft, chewy contrast that elevates the overall experience. It's a straightforward recipe that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum enjoyment. Refrigerating until firm ensures the perfect consistency for cutting into squares. A great choice for both novice and experienced bakers looking for a simple yet indulgent dessert.

Enhance Your Easy Rocky Road Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Fruit Salad: Elevate the Rocky Road Experience with a refreshing fruit salad. The vibrant mix of berries, citrus, and melon will provide a delightful contrast to the rich, chocolatey goodness of your dessert.

Grilled Vegetables: Pair your rocky road with a platter of grilled vegetables. The smoky, savory flavors of zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus will balance the sweetness perfectly.

Chicken Skewers: For a more substantial accompaniment, consider serving chicken skewers. Marinated in a tangy lemon and herb blend, these skewers will add a savory touch to your dessert spread.

Tomato Basil Soup: A warm bowl of tomato basil soup can be an unexpected yet delightful side. The rich, comforting flavors of the soup will complement the creamy, nutty notes of your rocky road.

Cheese Platter: Create a sophisticated pairing with a cheese platter. The variety of cheeses, from sharp cheddar to creamy brie, will offer a savory counterpoint to the sweet, crunchy texture of your dessert.

Discover Similar Recipes for Variety

Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge: Indulge in this rich and creamy dessert that combines the classic flavors of chocolate and peanut butter. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth!

S'mores Bars: Bring the campfire to your kitchen with these gooey s'mores bars. Layers of graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate make for an irresistible treat.

Nutty Chocolate Bark: Create a delightful dessert with this easy-to-make chocolate bark. Packed with a variety of nuts and a hint of sea salt, it's a perfect blend of sweet and salty.

Peanut Butter Chocolate Rice Krispies Treats: Elevate your Rice Krispies treats with a delicious twist of peanut butter and chocolate. These bars are crunchy, chewy, and utterly addictive.

Chocolate Covered Pretzels: Enjoy the perfect balance of sweet and salty with these chocolate covered pretzels. A simple yet satisfying dessert that's great for snacking or gifting.

Appetizer and Main Course Pairings to Complement the Flavors

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with Stuffed Mushrooms. These delightful bites feature mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The mushrooms are then baked to perfection, creating a warm, creamy, and flavorful starter that will impress your guests. The combination of the earthy mushrooms and the rich, cheesy filling makes for an irresistible treat. Serve these at your next gathering and watch them disappear in no time.

Bruschetta: Transport your taste buds to Italy with Bruschetta. This classic appetizer features toasted bread topped with a vibrant mix of diced tomatoes, basil, garlic, and olive oil. The bread provides a crunchy base, while the fresh topping adds a burst of flavor with every bite. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Serve it as a starter at your next dinner party or as a light snack to enjoy with friends.

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the zesty flavors of lemon and aromatic herbs. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, and a blend of fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley. This marinade not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with a burst of flavor. Once marinated, the chicken is grilled to perfection, resulting in a juicy and flavorful main course. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Stuffed Bell Peppers are a colorful and nutritious main course that is sure to impress. The bell peppers are hollowed out and filled with a savory mixture of ground meat (such as beef or turkey), rice, tomatoes, and a blend of spices. The stuffed peppers are then baked until the peppers are tender and the filling is cooked through. The result is a delicious and satisfying dish that is both visually appealing and packed with flavor. Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a simple salad for a well-rounded meal.

Why trust this Easy Rocky Road Recipe:

This easy rocky road recipe is a foolproof treat that combines the rich flavors of semi sweet chocolate chips and peanut butter with the delightful crunch of walnuts and peanuts. The addition of mini marshmallows creates a perfect balance of textures. With simple instructions and minimal ingredients, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. Trust in the tried-and-true combination of these classic ingredients to deliver a delicious and satisfying dessert every time.

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FAQ:

How long does it take for the rocky road to set in the fridge?

It usually takes about 2 hours for the rocky road to firm up in the fridge. If you're in a hurry, you can pop it in the freezer for about an hour.

Can I use a different type of nut instead of walnuts or peanuts?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out the walnuts or peanuts for your favorite nuts like almonds, pecans, or even cashews. Just keep the total amount of nuts the same.

Do I need to use mini marshmallows, or can I use regular-sized ones?

Mini marshmallows work best because they mix more evenly, but if you only have regular-sized marshmallows, you can cut them into smaller pieces.

Can I use milk chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate chips if you prefer a sweeter taste. Just keep in mind that the overall flavor will be a bit different.

How should I store the rocky road, and how long will it last?

Store the rocky road in an airtight container in the fridge. It should last for about 1 to 2 weeks, but it's usually gone much sooner because it's so delicious!