If you are on the hunt for a delightful, melt-in-your-mouth treat that combines rich chocolate, crunchy nuts, and fluffy marshmallows, this Rocky Road Fudge Recipe is an absolute winner. With its perfect balance of creamy sweetness and chewy texture, this fudge is a nostalgic classic that’s sure to brighten up any snack time or special occasion. Whether you’re gifting it or indulging yourself, this recipe brings a warm, homemade charm to every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating the perfect Rocky Road Fudge Recipe starts with a handful of simple yet essential ingredients. Each component plays its part in delivering the ultimate combination of rich chocolate, velvety creaminess, and that signature chewiness from marshmallows and crunch from walnuts.
- Mini marshmallows: Using chilled marshmallows adds the classic chewy texture and a subtle sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the smooth fudge.
- Semisweet chocolate chips: These provide the deep chocolate flavor and richness that makes this fudge irresistible.
- Unsalted butter: Adds creaminess and helps achieve that smooth, luscious fudge texture without overpowering sweetness.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Acts as the binding liquid, giving the fudge its creamy body and subtle sugary balance.
- Chopped walnuts: Introduce a satisfying crunch and earthy nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with chocolate and marshmallows.
- Pure vanilla extract: Just a splash enhances the chocolate’s depth and adds a warm, inviting aroma.
How to Make Rocky Road Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the marshmallows and pan
Start by placing your mini marshmallows in the freezer so they chill nicely while you work on the fudge base. Meanwhile, grease a 9×9-inch square baking pan lightly, then line it with parchment paper. This step ensures your fudge won’t stick and comes out cleanly when it’s time to cut.
Step 2: Melt the chocolate mixture
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine semisweet chocolate chips, unsalted butter, and sweetened condensed milk. Use a spatula to stir everything until the chocolate fully melts into a silky, smooth mixture. This melting step is the foundation for that decadent fudge texture everyone loves.
Step 3: Add nuts and flavor
Stir in the chopped walnuts and the vanilla extract carefully to distribute their flavors throughout the warm chocolate. This addition brings in delightful crunch and a fragrant complexity that elevates the fudge.
Step 4: Cool the chocolate mixture
Allow the fudge mixture to rest for a few minutes. This cooling down stage prevents the marshmallows from melting fully, so they keep their signature soft chew when combined.
Step 5: Combine with marshmallows
Mix in about 2½ cups of the chilled mini marshmallows gently, folding them into the chocolate blend. Be tender with this step to keep the marshmallows’ texture intact without melting them completely.
Step 6: Assemble in the pan
Pour the entire chocolate and marshmallow mixture into the prepared pan. Evenly sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of marshmallows on top for a charming toasted look and extra chewy bite after chilling.
Step 7: Refrigerate to set
Place the pan in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 hours until the fudge is firm and perfectly set. This chilling phase is crucial for allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully and for the fudge to hold its shape when sliced.
Step 8: Slice and enjoy
Once firm, carefully lift the fudge from the pan using the parchment paper edges. Cut into 16 squares for perfect portion sizes that are easy to share or stash for later snacking.
How to Serve Rocky Road Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
While the fudge is delicious on its own, you can sprinkle additional chopped walnuts or even a dusting of cocoa powder on top before chilling. A few sea salt flakes added on top enhance the flavors, creating a sophisticated sweet-and-salty contrast that will wow guests.
Side Dishes
Pair your Rocky Road Fudge with a steaming cup of freshly brewed coffee or a rich hot chocolate to complement the smooth, creamy chocolate in the fudge. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream on the side add freshness that balances the sweetness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation can take this classic Rocky Road Fudge Recipe to the next level. Serve the fudge squares on a rustic wooden board alongside assorted nuts and marshmallows for a fun DIY dessert platter. Wrapping individual squares in parchment and tying them with festive twine also makes charming homemade gifts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Rocky Road fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate it to extend freshness to two weeks. Be sure to layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking between pieces and maintain the perfect texture.
Freezing
This fudge freezes beautifully! Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight freezer bag or container. Frozen fudge can be stored for up to three months, making it a convenient treat to have on hand for unexpected sweet cravings.
Reheating
Rocky Road fudge is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t generally recommended as it may alter the texture. If you prefer it softer, simply let frozen pieces thaw at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving.
FAQs
Can I use different nuts in this Rocky Road Fudge Recipe?
Absolutely! While walnuts are traditional and provide a lovely crunch, feel free to swap in pecans, almonds, or even peanuts based on your preference or what you have on hand.
Is it necessary to chill the marshmallows before adding them?
Chilling the marshmallows helps them maintain their shape and chewiness in the fudge, preventing them from melting completely into the chocolate mixture. This step gives Rocky Road fudge its classic texture.
Can I make this fudge dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, choose dairy-free butter substitutes and a sweetened condensed coconut milk product. Also, ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free to keep the recipe fully vegan-friendly.
How long does this fudge take to set?
The fudge typically needs 2 to 3 hours in the refrigerator to fully set and firm up for neat slicing. The chilling time allows the flavors to meld and the texture to stabilize.
What is the best way to cut Rocky Road fudge without it crumbling?
Using a sharp knife warmed by running it under hot water and drying it off before slicing can help achieve clean cuts without disturbing the fudge’s delicate texture.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Rocky Road Fudge Recipe enough if you’re looking for a quick, fun, and utterly delicious dessert to whip up. With its perfect blend of flavors and textures, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe box. So go ahead, treat yourself and your loved ones to this delightful fudge—you really can’t go wrong!
Print
Rocky Road Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 16 squares
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Rocky Road Fudge is a rich, creamy, and irresistibly chocolaty treat loaded with mini marshmallows and crunchy walnuts. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, this no-bake fudge recipe comes together quickly with simple ingredients like semisweet chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract. Chill it for a few hours and enjoy delightful squares of classic rocky road goodness.
Ingredients
Fudge Mixture
- 2½ cups semisweet chocolate chips (425 grams)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (28 grams, ¼ stick)
- 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk (396 grams, 1 can)
- 1 cup chopped walnuts (113 grams)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (4 grams)
- 2½ cups mini marshmallows (about 107 grams) chilled
Topping
- ½ cup mini marshmallows (about 22 grams) chilled
Instructions
- Chill Marshmallows: Place the mini marshmallows in the freezer to chill while you prepare the fudge. This helps maintain their shape when mixed into the warm chocolate.
- Prepare Pan: Grease a 9×9-inch square baking pan and line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the fudge later.
- Melt Chocolate Mixture: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the semisweet chocolate chips, unsalted butter, and sweetened condensed milk. Stir continuously with a spatula until all the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add Nuts and Flavoring: Remove from heat and stir in the chopped walnuts and pure vanilla extract until evenly incorporated.
- Cool Mixture: Let the chocolate mixture sit for a few minutes to cool slightly. This prevents the marshmallows from melting completely when added.
- Mix in Marshmallows: Gently fold in 2½ cups of the chilled mini marshmallows into the cooled chocolate mixture, combining carefully to keep their shape.
- Assemble in Pan: Pour the entire fudge mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of chilled mini marshmallows on top for a classic rocky road look and added texture.
- Chill and Set: Refrigerate the fudge for 2 to 3 hours or until completely set and firm.
- Serve: Remove the fudge from the pan by lifting the parchment paper, then cut into 16 squares and enjoy.
Notes
- For easier removal, ensure the pan is well lined with parchment paper extending over edges.
- Use good-quality semisweet chocolate chips for the best flavor and texture.
- You can substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds according to preference or nut allergies.
- Keep the fudge refrigerated and consume within a week for optimal freshness.
- This fudge can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge.
