Rocky Road Chocolate Cookies
Indulging in the rich, decadent world of chocolate cookies is always a delightful experience, and when those cookies are inspired by the classic Rocky Road dessert, you know you’re in for something special. These Rocky Road Chocolate Cookies are a perfect blend of soft, chewy cookie goodness, combined with the crunch of walnuts and the sweetness of mini marshmallows and chocolate chunks. Get ready to gather your ingredients and embark on a chocolatey adventure that will leave your taste buds dancing!
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
These Rocky Road Chocolate Cookies are not just any ordinary cookies; they pack a punch of flavor and texture that’s sure to impress. Here’s what you’ll love:
- The combination of rich chocolate and textural contrast from walnuts and marshmallows.
- Simple ingredients that come together to create a decadent treat.
- Perfectly chewy and soft in the center with a slight crisp on the edges.
- They’re a crowd-pleaser, making them ideal for parties, gatherings, or just a cozy night in.
What Goes In
To whip up a batch of these delightful Rocky Road Chocolate Cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 8 ounces semi-sweet baking chocolate bars, chopped
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- â…“ cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup walnut pieces
- 1 cup mini marshmallows, divided
- 1 cup chopped milk chocolate bars, divided
Kitchen Gear Checklist
Before you dive into baking, make sure you have the following kitchen tools on hand:
- Mixing bowls: For combining ingredients.
- Whisk: To mix dry ingredients and for batter.
- Spatula: For folding in the chocolate and nuts.
- Baking sheet: To hold your cookies while they bake.
- Parchment paper: To line your baking sheet for easy cleanup.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To get the measurements just right.
- Cooling rack: To cool your cookies after baking.
Directions: Rocky Road Chocolate Cookies
Now that you have everything ready, let’s get started on making your Rocky Road Chocolate Cookies!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chopped semi-sweet baking chocolate and unsalted butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until melted and smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. This step is crucial for evenly distributing the leavening agents and ensuring a consistent texture in your cookies.
Step 4: Combine Sugars and Eggs
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and eggs until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually pour the melted chocolate mixture into the sugar and egg mixture, stirring until well incorporated. Then, gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
Step 6: Fold in the Goodies
Using a spatula, gently fold in the walnut pieces, half of the mini marshmallows, and half of the chopped milk chocolate bars. This will ensure that every cookie is packed with delicious surprises.
Step 7: Scoop the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto a lined baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie as they will spread during baking.
Step 8: Add Toppings
Press a few of the remaining mini marshmallows and chopped milk chocolate bars onto the top of each cookie dough mound for that extra touch of Rocky Road goodness.
Step 9: Bake
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still slightly soft. Remember, the cookies will continue to firm up as they cool.
Step 10: Cool and Enjoy!
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy these delicious Rocky Road Chocolate Cookies warm or at room temperature!
Health-Conscious Tweaks
If you’re looking to make some adjustments to this recipe for a healthier twist, consider the following options:
- Substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour for added fiber.
- Use coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative instead of unsalted butter.
- Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar substitute to reduce overall sugar content.
- Incorporate dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate for a richer flavor and antioxidants.
Testing Timeline
If you want to make a perfect batch of Rocky Road Chocolate Cookies, here’s a simple timeline to follow:
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Baking time: 10-12 minutes
- Cooling time: 10 minutes on the baking sheet, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Total time: Approximately 35-40 minutes from start to finish.
Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide
To ensure your Rocky Road Chocolate Cookies stay fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:
- Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the baked cookies. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separated by parchment paper, for up to 3 months.
- To thaw frozen cookies, simply leave them at room temperature for about 30 minutes before enjoying.
Reader Questions
Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet for a richer flavor?
Absolutely! Dark chocolate will give your cookies a deeper chocolate flavor, which pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the marshmallows.
What if I don’t have walnuts? Can I substitute with something else?
Yes! You can use pecans, almonds, or even leave them out entirely if you prefer a nut-free cookie.
Can I add other mix-ins, like peanut butter chips or dried fruit?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your mix-ins. Peanut butter chips or even dried cherries would make a delightful addition to the cookie dough.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The edges should be set, and the centers will still look slightly gooey. They will firm up as they cool, so don’t worry if they seem soft right out of the oven.
Let’s Eat
Now that you’ve mastered the art of making Rocky Road Chocolate Cookies, it’s time to gather your loved ones and enjoy these delightful treats together. Each bite is a celebration of chocolatey goodness, crunchy walnuts, and fluffy marshmallows, making them a favorite for any occasion. Pair them with a glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate indulgence. Happy baking!
Rocky Road Chocolate Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chopped semi-sweet baking chocolate and unsalted butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until melted and smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and eggs until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
- Gradually pour the melted chocolate mixture into the sugar and egg mixture, stirring until well incorporated. Then, gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Gently fold in the walnut pieces, half of the mini marshmallows, and half of the chopped milk chocolate bars.
- Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto a lined baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
- Press a few of the remaining mini marshmallows and chopped milk chocolate bars onto the top of each cookie dough mound.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are slightly soft. They will firm up as they cool.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months by placing them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container.
- Thaw frozen cookies at room temperature for about 30 minutes before enjoying.
