Rocky Road Fudge Delight

This Rocky Road Fudge Treat brings together creamy chocolate, sweet mini marshmallows, and crunchy peanuts for a blissful sweet ending. The mixture melts smoothly and sets into firm squares that show off the gooey marshmallow swirls with the satisfying crunch of nuts in every bite. It is a straightforward no-bake recipe that feels special yet comes together quickly, perfect for sharing with family or gifting during holidays.

Ingredients

• Semi-sweet chocolate chips: for a smooth melt and rich flavor Choose quality brands for the best texture
• Sweetened condensed milk: creates the creamy, sweet base without measuring sugar separately
• Mini marshmallows: add soft, gooey pockets—the fresher the marshmallows, the better the texture
• Roasted unsalted peanuts: provide satisfying crunch and balance the sweetness with subtle saltiness
• Vanilla extract: rounds out and deepens the chocolate flavor adding warmth and complexity

Step-by-Step Instructions

Spoon preparation:

Line a 9 by 10 inch pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it. Extend the paper edges over the sides to easily lift the fudge out later for perfect cutting.

Melt chocolate and condensed milk:

Place semi-sweet chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly each time until fully melted and glossy. This gradual melting prevents burning and ensures smooth fudge.

Add the mix-ins:

Gently fold mini marshmallows and peanuts into the warm chocolate mixture. Expect the marshmallows to soften or partially melt, creating lovely swirls, but the mix will still hold together beautifully.

Pour and chill:

Pour the combined fudge mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Let it cool and firm at room temperature for about two hours or refrigerate for one hour to set faster.

Cut and serve:

Once the fudge is firm, lift it out by the parchment paper edges and cut into about 20 pieces. Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

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Storage Tips

Store your Rocky Road Fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep it longer, it freezes very well when wrapped tightly for up to three months. To enjoy, thaw it slowly in the fridge to maintain that perfect chewy and crunchy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute the peanuts with walnuts or pecans for a different but equally good crunch. If you need a nut-free version, increase the marshmallows or add dried fruit like chopped dried cranberries. Using dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet will give a deeper, richer chocolate flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Cut the fudge into bite-sized squares and serve alongside coffee or hot cocoa for a warm cozy treat. It also shines as a homemade gift when wrapped in parchment and tied with a festive ribbon, perfect for holiday celebrations or just to brighten someone’s day.

Cultural Context

Rocky Road began in the early 1900s in America as a creative way to mix chocolate with marshmallows and nuts. It quickly became a beloved ice cream flavor and eventually inspired various desserts like this fudge. Its playful mix of textures with simple ingredients has made it a timeless favorite shared across many generations.

Recipe FAQs

→ What is the best way to melt chocolate without burning it?

Heat chocolate in short 30-second bursts in the microwave, stirring well between intervals to avoid scorching and achieve a silky texture.

→ Can I substitute peanuts with other nuts?

Yes, almonds, walnuts, or pecans all provide delicious alternative crunch and flavor profiles to tailor the mixture to your preference.

→ How do I prevent marshmallows from fully melting into the chocolate?

Wait for the chocolate mixture to cool slightly before folding in marshmallows to maintain their shape and create appealing swirls.

→ What is the ideal pan size for setting this treat?

A 9x10 inch pan lined with parchment paper ensures an even layer and effortless removal of the set confection.

→ How long should the fudge set before cutting?

Allow it to firm at room temperature for around two hours or speed up the process by chilling for about one hour in the refrigerator.