This irresistible Rocky Road recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect last-minute treat. Packed with decadent flavors and only 171 calories per serving, it strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and portion control.
The simple 10-minute prep followed by minimal cooking time means you’ll have these delightful squares ready before you know it. Whether you’re planning a party or just need a sweet pick-me-up, these no-fuss Rocky Road bars deliver pure joy in every bite.
Ingredients
- Marshmallows (10 oz): Regular-sized, cut into quarters for perfect melding with chocolate
- Semi-sweet Baking Chocolate (8 oz): High-quality baking chocolate for best results
- Butter (1/2 cup): Cut into chunks for even melting
- Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): Adds delightful depth to the chocolate
- Walnuts (1/2 cup): Optional, adds delightful crunch
Instructions
- Preparation: Grease an 8×8″ baking pan thoroughly for easy removal later
- Marshmallow Prep: Quarter marshmallows using water-dipped scissors to prevent sticking
- Base Layer: Arrange cut marshmallows evenly in the prepared pan
- Chocolate Melting: Combine chocolate and butter over low heat, stirring until silky smooth
- Flavor Enhancement: Mix in vanilla extract and walnuts into the melted chocolate mixture
- Assembly: Carefully pour chocolate over marshmallows, ensuring even coverage
- Setting: Refrigerate until completely firm, about 15 minutes
- Storage: Keep any remaining pieces in refrigerator for best results
Storage Tips
Keep your rocky road treats fresh and delicious by storing them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay perfectly good for up to 2 weeks – though they rarely last that long! If you’re stacking layers, place wax paper between them to prevent sticking. Want to save them for later? You can freeze them for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
Variations & Substitutions
Love making this treat your own way? Try swapping semi-sweet chocolate with milk chocolate for a sweeter taste, or dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
Not a fan of walnuts? Use any nuts you like – pecans and almonds work beautifully! You can also add dried fruit like cranberries or raisins for extra chewiness. For a nut-free version, try adding crushed graham crackers or cookie pieces instead.
Serving Ideas
These rocky road squares make wonderful treats for any occasion! Cut them into bite-sized pieces for parties or pack them in your kids’ lunch boxes.
They’re perfect with a cold glass of milk or hot coffee. For an extra special dessert, warm a piece slightly (5-10 seconds in the microwave) and top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. These also make lovely homemade gifts – just wrap them in cellophane and tie with a pretty ribbon!
Rocky Road
Equipment
- 8×8 baking pan
- saucepan or double boiler
- Scissors
Ingredients
- 10 ounce regular marshmallows (not mini), cut into 1/4’s
- 8 ounces semi-sweet baking chocolate
- 1/2 cup butter cut into chunks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts optional
Instructions
- Grease a 8×8″ baking pan with non-stick cooking spray or butter.
- Cut the marshmallows with scissors into 4ths (dip the scissors in water after each cut to keep the marshamllows from sticking). Add cut marshmallow to the pan.
- In a saucepan over low heat (or a double boiler) add chocolate and butter. Stir constantly until melted and smooth.
- Remove from heat and add the vanilla extract and walnuts, if using.
- Slowly spoon melted chocolate over marshmallows, gently nudging the marshmallows with the spoon to allow the chocolate to seep into all of the cracks.
- Refrigerate until set. Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
