If you love chocolate, marshmallows, and nuts, these Rocky Road Cookies are a dream come true. Imagine a soft, chewy chocolate cookie loaded with semi-sweet chocolate chips, gooey mini marshmallows, and crunchy walnuts or pecans in every bite. These cookies combine the best of all worlds—rich chocolate, fluffy marshmallows, and nutty texture—for a dessert that’s perfect for easy dinner ideas, family comfort food, or holiday treats.

This recipe is ideal for anyone looking for a fun, indulgent dessert without complicated steps. Whether you’re baking for a crowd, planning a cozy weeknight treat, or preparing cookies for gift-giving, Rocky Road Cookies deliver both flavor and visual appeal. They are the ultimate chocolate lover’s cookie, satisfying cravings while remaining surprisingly easy to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chewy and Soft: Perfectly balanced for a soft, chewy center and slightly crisp edges.
Loaded with Goodies: Chocolate chips, marshmallows, and nuts make every bite exciting.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore these indulgent cookies.
Simple to Make: Uses common ingredients and requires no complicated techniques.
Perfect for Holidays: Ideal for cookie trays, bake sales, or festive parties.
Customizable: Easy to swap nuts or chocolate types to suit your preferences.

Ingredient Breakdown:

Unsalted Butter (1 cup, room temperature) – Provides richness and helps create the perfect chewy texture.
Granulated Sugar (1 cup) – Sweetens the dough and contributes to a slight crispness on the edges.
Light Brown Sugar (1 cup, packed) – Adds moisture and a deep, caramel-like flavor for chewy cookies.
Eggs (2 large) – Bind ingredients together and provide structure for the cookies.
Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons) – Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, sweet aroma.
All-Purpose Flour (2 1/4 cups) – Forms the base of the cookie dough, ensuring structure and tenderness.
Baking Soda (1 teaspoon) – Helps the cookies rise slightly and gives a tender crumb.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon) – Balances the sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavor.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (1/2 cup) – Gives a rich chocolate flavor and deep color to the cookies.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (1 cup) – Provides pockets of melted chocolate in every bite.
Mini Marshmallows (1 cup) – Add gooey texture and a classic rocky road feel.
Chopped Walnuts or Pecans (1 cup) – Contribute crunch and nutty flavor, balancing the sweetness.

Pro Tips:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
Cream the butter and sugars until light and fluffy to create a tender texture.
Add eggs one at a time to incorporate evenly.
Fold in chocolate chips, marshmallows, and nuts gently to prevent breaking the marshmallows.
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack for best results.
Slightly underbake for a gooey center—cookies will firm as they cool.

Ingredient Swaps or Variations: Customize Your Cookies

Nut-Free Version: Omit walnuts/pecans or substitute with sunflower seeds.
Chocolate Variations: Use dark, milk, or white chocolate chips for different flavors.
Mini Marshmallow Alternatives: Regular-sized marshmallows can be chopped and used if mini ones aren’t available.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
Add-Ins: Consider shredded coconut, toffee bits, or peanut butter chips for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve these cookies slightly warm to enjoy the gooey marshmallows and melted chocolate. Pair with a glass of cold milk, hot cocoa, or coffee for a decadent treat. Rocky Road Cookies are perfect for dessert platters, holiday gift boxes, bake sales, or as a simple after-dinner indulgence. Cut into halves or quarters to share with friends or family during parties.

Make Ahead + Storage Tips:

Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Freeze cookie dough balls for up to 3 months, then bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to baking time.
To keep baked cookies soft, add a slice of bread in the container—it helps maintain moisture.
Reheat slightly in the oven or microwave for a freshly-baked taste anytime.

Cultural or Historical Notes:

The term “Rocky Road” originated in the 1920s as a candy and ice cream flavor, combining chocolate, nuts, and marshmallows to create a sweet, textured treat. These cookies take that iconic combination and turn it into a handheld dessert perfect for modern baking. The recipe honors the classic flavor while offering the convenience and fun of homemade cookies, making it a favorite for American households, holidays, and family gatherings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This often enhances flavor and texture.

How should I store leftovers?
Keep cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months.

Can I make these cookies healthier?
Yes. Reduce sugar slightly, use natural cocoa powder, or substitute butter with coconut oil for a lighter version.

What nut alternatives work best?
Pecans, almonds, or even sunflower seeds can be used if you prefer a different flavor or need a nut-free option.

Why are my marshmallows melting completely?
Fold them in gently at the end of mixing and slightly underbake. Overmixing or high heat can cause marshmallows to melt completely.

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