Rocky Road Chocolate Candy Bars

Rocky Road Candy is one of those classic no-bake treats everyone gathers for Especially around holidays or cozy weekends you get a fudgy base swirled with salty roasted almonds and bouncy marshmallows Every bite is rich chocolatey and full of sweet crunch Just one pan and a bit of patience transforms simple ingredients into candy shop magic

I first made this candy with my aunt for a holiday platter and I will never forget how quickly it vanished Now my friends ask for this every time someone needs a bring along dessert

Ingredients

• Butterscotch chips: Give rich caramel notes and a little buttery sweetness Always look for fresh chips with even color and soft sheen
• Semi sweet chocolate chips: Classic choice for lots of chocolate flavor without being too sweet Use a good quality brand with a smooth snap
• Peanut butter: Adds creaminess and helps hold the candy together Go for classic creamy kind stir well before measuring
• Salted roasted almonds: These give a perfect salty crunch Chop them roughly for the best bite and avoid pieces that taste stale or soft
• Mini marshmallows: Pillowy texture and signature Rocky Road look Choose fresh fluffier bags for melt in your mouth results

Step by Step Instructions

Prepare Your Pan:

Line your eight by eight or nine by nine inch square pan with parchment paper This makes removing the candy and clean up much easier

Melt the Chocolate Base:

Add all chocolate chips butterscotch chips and peanut butter to a large microwave safe bowl Melt in the microwave in thirty second intervals stirring after each until smooth and fully blended Let this mixture cool for five to ten minutes This pause is key so the marshmallows do not melt

Mix in Marshmallows and Almonds:

Stir in your chopped almonds and mini marshmallows Be thorough so every bite gets an equal mix

Fill the Pan:

Pour the mixture into your prepared pan Spread it evenly with a spatula Tap the pan gently on the counter to level it Top with a handful of extra marshmallows for a pretty finish if you like

Chill and Cut:

Refrigerate for at least one hour until firm Lift the set candy out by the parchment Use a sharp knife to cut into sixteen squares Wipe the knife between cuts for the cleanest edges

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I love using salted almonds here because that hint of salt in the chocolate is just magic The first time I made this with my family we used colored marshmallows for an extra festive look and we all ended up giggling with sticky hands and chocolate faces

Storage Tips

Keep Rocky Road Candy in an airtight container in the refrigerator It stays firm and fresh for up to one week Layer with parchment between pieces to keep them from sticking If you want to store longer freeze the squares and thaw at room temperature before eating

Ingredient Substitutions

Use cashews or peanuts instead of almonds for a different crunch Sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds work well if you need to make it nut free Nut butter can swap for peanut butter just check for salt and texture Chocolate can be all milk or all dark if you prefer more or less sweetness

Serving Suggestions

Pile these up for dessert platters or wrap squares in wax paper for lunchbox treats Or set out at holiday parties with other simple sweets like fudge or peanut brittle Kids love helping with the marshmallow step for a hands on treat making activity

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A Bit of Background

Rocky Road is a nostalgic American favorite said to have started during the Great Depression Clever candy makers combined marshmallows chocolate and nuts to lift spirits and stretch ingredients Today it is a classic for bake sales picnics and parties everywhere

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of chocolate works best?

Semi-sweet chocolate chips offer balanced sweetness and melt smoothly, but dark chocolate chips can be used for a richer flavor.

→ Can I substitute the almonds?

Yes, peanuts or cashews work just as well. Use roasted and salted varieties for added crunch and flavor.

→ How do I prevent the marshmallows from melting into the mixture?

Allow the melted chocolate, butterscotch, and peanut butter to cool for several minutes before folding in the marshmallows.

→ How long should the bars chill before slicing?

Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set the bars fully. This makes slicing cleaner and gives the best texture.

→ Can these bars be made ahead?

Absolutely! They stay fresh in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week and are great for preparing in advance.

→ Are there fun ways to customize the bars?

Consider adding colorful sprinkles or swapping in different nuts to suit your taste and occasion.