A Sweet and Simple Treat for Any Occasion
Rocky Road Candy is a classic dessert that never goes out of style. With its delightful combination of chocolate, marshmallows, and nuts, this recipe is the perfect blend of textures and flavors. Whether you’re preparing treats for a party, gifting something special to a loved one, or simply indulging in a sweet craving, Rocky Road Candy is a go-to recipe that delivers every time.
This blog post will guide you through making this irresistible candy, with tips, variations, and storage solutions to ensure your Rocky Road Candy is a smashing success.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Rocky Road Candy recipe is ideal for:
- Beginners: With no baking involved and a simple preparation process, it’s perfect for novice cooks.
- Busy Schedules: The recipe comes together in under 15 minutes, with only an hour of chilling time.
- Customizers: It’s highly versatile! You can swap or add ingredients to suit your preferences.
The combination of rich chocolate, creamy peanut butter, crunchy almonds, and fluffy marshmallows makes this treat unforgettable. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here are the star players of this simple yet indulgent recipe:
- 1 cup butterscotch chips
- 12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/3 cup peanut butter
- 1 cup salted roasted almonds, coarsely chopped
- 10 oz mini marshmallows
Kitchen Equipment
To make this recipe, you’ll need:
- 8×8 or 9×9-inch pan
- Parchment paper
- Large microwave-safe bowl
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Knife for slicing
Step-by-Step Directions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8 or 9×9-inch pan with parchment paper, ensuring there’s enough overhang for easy removal.
- Melt the Base Ingredients: In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, and peanut butter. Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring after each, until melted and smooth. Let it cool slightly for 5-10 minutes.
- Mix in the Goodies: Stir the chopped almonds and mini marshmallows into the melted mixture until evenly combined.
- Pour and Set: Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. For a decorative touch, sprinkle extra mini marshmallows on top.
- Chill: Place the pan in the refrigerator for about 1 hour or until the candy is fully set.
- Slice and Serve: Remove the candy from the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Slice it into 16 squares and serve.
Tips for Success
- Cooling Time: Allow the melted chocolate mixture to cool slightly before adding the marshmallows. This prevents the marshmallows from melting and losing their shape.
- Even Mixing: Use a spatula to thoroughly combine the almonds and marshmallows for even distribution in every bite.
- Cutting Cleanly: For clean slices, use a sharp knife and run it under hot water between cuts.
Variations and Substitutions
- Nuts: Swap almonds for peanuts, walnuts, or pecans, or omit them entirely for a nut-free version.
- Chocolate: Try dark chocolate chips or white chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
- Add-ins: Mix in dried cranberries, shredded coconut, or crushed pretzels for extra texture.
- Vegan Option: Use dairy-free chocolate chips, vegan marshmallows, and peanut butter to make a vegan-friendly version.
How to Store Rocky Road Candy
- Refrigerator: Store the candy in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the candy in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Let it thaw at room temperature before serving.
Food Pairings
Rocky Road Candy pairs wonderfully with:
- Beverages: Enjoy it with a cup of hot cocoa, coffee, or a cold glass of milk.
- Dessert Platters: Add it to a dessert board with cookies, brownies, and fruit for a stunning presentation.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different nut butter?
A: Absolutely! Almond butter or cashew butter works well as a substitute for peanut butter.
Q: Can I make this without a microwave?
A: Yes! You can melt the chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, and peanut butter over a double boiler on the stovetop.
Q: Why is my candy not setting properly?
A: Ensure the mixture is fully chilled before slicing. If it’s still soft, let it chill for an additional 30 minutes.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Definitely! Use a 9×13-inch pan for a larger batch and follow the same steps.
Final Thoughts
Rocky Road Candy is an easy, crowd-pleasing recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen newbie, this no-fail treat is sure to impress.
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