If you’re craving a dessert that perfectly balances fudgy chocolate, crunchy nuts, and pillowy marshmallows, look no further than this Rocky Road Brownies Recipe. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors, with rich cocoa blended seamlessly into a chewy base, studded generously with melting marshmallows and toasted almonds. Whether you’re sharing with friends or treating yourself, these brownies deliver that nostalgic rocky road charm in a delicious homemade way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Rocky Road Brownies Recipe uses a handful of simple but essential ingredients that come together to create a complex and irresistible flavor profile. Each one plays a key role—whether adding moisture, sweetness, or texture—to make these brownies unforgettable.
- Unsalted butter (½ cup): Provides a rich, creamy base that keeps the brownies moist and tender.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the batter while helping to develop a shiny, crackly crust.
- Brown sugar (¼ cup): Adds a subtle caramel note and enhances chewiness.
- Large eggs (2): Bind the ingredients together and add structure.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Elevates the chocolate flavor with its warm, aromatic touch.
- All-purpose flour (¾ cup): Gives the brownies their body and helps them set without becoming cakey.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (½ cup): Delivers deep chocolate richness without extra fat.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chunks (¾ cup): Melt slightly inside the brownies for pockets of gooey chocolate goodness.
- Mini marshmallows (1 cup): Provide soft, chewy sweetness and that classic rocky road texture.
- Chopped almonds (½ cup): Add a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor.
How to Make Rocky Road Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure effortless removal of your brownies once baked, preventing any sticky situations.
Step 2: Melt Butter and Combine Sugars
Melt the unsalted butter gently until it’s fully liquefied. Then whisk in the granulated sugar and brown sugar until they blend into a smooth, glossy mixture. This step creates the perfect foundation for the fudgy texture we’re aiming for.
Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully mixed before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract for a subtle flavor boost that complements the chocolate beautifully.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients Separately
In another bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt. Sifting keeps lumps out and results in an even, smooth batter texture.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Fold the dry ingredients gently into the wet mixture just until combined. Overmixing can cause tough brownies, so fold with care to keep them tender.
Step 6: Fold in Rocky Road Toppings
Gently fold in half of the chocolate chunks, mini marshmallows, and chopped almonds. This disperses the goodies throughout the batter for that classic rocky road surprise in every bite.
Step 7: Bake and Add Remaining Toppings
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chunks, marshmallows, and almonds over the surface for a visually tempting and textured finish before popping it into the oven for 25 to 30 minutes.
Step 8: Cool Before Slicing
After baking, allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan. This ensures they set perfectly and slice cleanly into mouthwatering squares without falling apart.
How to Serve Rocky Road Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your Rocky Road Brownies Recipe by dusting the tops with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream add a refreshing contrast that complements the rich brownie.
Side Dishes
These brownies pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a glass of cold milk. For a more indulgent treat, serve alongside a cup of strong coffee or hot cocoa to balance sweetness and provide warmth.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting your Rocky Road Brownies into bite-sized squares on a decorative platter layered with parchment paper for casual sharing. Or stack layers separated with parchment for a fun Rocky Road brownie tower that’s perfect for parties and potlucks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your brownies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh for up to three days. The chewy marshmallows and crunchy nuts stay delightfully balanced without becoming soggy.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these Rocky Road Brownies Recipe treats later, wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They freeze well for up to two months without losing their texture or flavor.
Reheating
Reheat brownies gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or let them come to room temperature naturally. This brings back their soft, gooey texture, especially the melted chocolate and marshmallows.
FAQs
Can I substitute the almonds with other nuts?
Absolutely! Walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts work beautifully in this Rocky Road Brownies Recipe and provide a slightly different flavor and crunch.
Are mini marshmallows necessary?
Mini marshmallows create the signature rocky road texture, but you can use regular-sized marshmallows cut into smaller pieces if needed. Just be aware they may melt a bit more during baking.
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Yes, by swapping the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend, you can enjoy these Rocky Road Brownies without gluten. Just ensure your baking powder or other ingredients are also gluten-free.
How do I know when the brownies are done?
Check by inserting a toothpick near the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. The edges will start pulling away from the pan slightly when baked perfectly.
Can I use chocolate chips instead of chunks?
Chocolate chips work just as well in this Rocky Road Brownies Recipe. Chunks give a chunkier bite, but chips will melt into delightful pockets of chocolate throughout.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Rocky Road Brownies Recipe, it’s tough not to become a fan for life. The blend of fudgy chocolate, soft marshmallows, and crunchy almonds creates a treat that feels both indulgent and comforting. Whip up a batch to bring smiles and happy sighs around your table—you won’t regret it!
Print
Rocky Road Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Rocky Road Brownies are rich, fudgy chocolate brownies loaded with gooey mini marshmallows, crunchy chopped almonds, and chunks of semi-sweet chocolate, creating the perfect balance of textures and flavors in every bite. With a simple preparation and classic ingredients, this recipe is an indulgent treat loved by all.
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Mix-ins and Toppings
- ¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chunks
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- ½ cup chopped almonds
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the brownies after baking.
- Melt butter and combine sugars: Melt the unsalted butter in a saucepan or microwave, then whisk in the granulated sugar and brown sugar until combined and smooth for a rich base.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Stir in the eggs one at a time along with the vanilla extract, beating until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt to evenly distribute the dry components.
- Combine wet and dry mixtures: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the batter.
- Fold in mix-ins: Carefully fold in half of the semi-sweet chocolate chunks, mini marshmallows, and chopped almonds to distribute them throughout the batter.
- Transfer batter to pan: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the surface evenly with a spatula.
- Add remaining toppings: Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chunks, marshmallows, and almonds evenly over the top of the batter for a decorative finish and extra texture.
- Bake the brownies: Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.
- Cool and slice: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack, then lift them out using the parchment paper and cut into 12 squares before serving.
Notes
- Ensure not to overbake to keep the brownies moist and fudgy.
- Use parchment paper for easy removal and clean edges.
- Chopped walnuts can be used as an alternative to almonds.
- For extra gooey marshmallows on top, add fresh mini marshmallows during the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature up to 3 days or refrigerate to extend freshness.
