Brownies are already a comfort dessert on their own, but when you introduce a rocky road twist with gooey marshmallows, crunchy nuts, and melted chocolate chips, the result is next-level indulgence. These Rocky Road Brownies are the kind of treat that disappears quickly from the pan, leaving only a smudge of chocolate and the scent of toasted marshmallow behind.

Perfectly chewy in the center with crisp edges, each bite is a mix of textures and flavors that play off each other beautifully. Whether you’re baking for a potluck, a party, or just to satisfy a midnight chocolate craving, these brownies hit the sweet spot between nostalgic and over-the-top delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Rocky Road Brownies Recipe

They bring together all the best elements of a rocky road candy bar with the rich, fudgy base of a brownie. The marshmallows add that soft, melty contrast, while nuts provide a hearty crunch. This recipe is easy enough for beginner bakers and satisfying enough for seasoned sweet tooths. Plus, they look just as good as they taste—perfect for showing off at gatherings or gifting.

What Kind of Marshmallows Should I Use?

Mini marshmallows are the way to go here. They melt quickly and evenly across the top, giving you those beautiful golden spots without overpowering the rest of the brownie. If all you have are large marshmallows, you can chop them into smaller pieces. Avoid flavored or colored ones, as they may alter the taste and look of the final brownies.

Ingredients for the Rocky Road Brownies

The ingredients in this recipe are a mix of basic baking staples and a few decadent additions that make all the difference. Here’s what you need to create that signature rocky road vibe:

Unsalted butter
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Eggs
Vanilla extract
All-purpose flour
Cocoa powder
Salt
Chocolate chips
Mini marshmallows
Chopped walnuts or pecans

These ingredients balance sweetness with texture and depth. The brown sugar enhances chewiness, cocoa powder brings rich flavor, and the combo of marshmallows, chocolate, and nuts creates that unmistakable rocky road experience.

How To Make the Rocky Road Brownies

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter

Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over low heat, then stir in both sugars until well combined. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before adding the eggs and vanilla. Whisk in flour, cocoa powder, and salt until the batter is smooth.

Step 3: Add Chocolate Chips and Bake

Fold in the chocolate chips and pour the batter into your prepared pan. Bake for about 25-28 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Step 4: Add the Rocky Road Topping

Remove the brownies from the oven and quickly sprinkle the top with mini marshmallows and chopped nuts. Return to the oven for 5 more minutes, just until the marshmallows begin to puff and brown lightly.

Step 5: Cool and Slice

Let the brownies cool completely before cutting. This helps them set and gives you those clean slices with distinct rocky road layers.

How to Serve and Store These Brownies

These Rocky Road Brownies are rich, so small squares go a long way. They’re perfect served slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or at room temperature as a lunchbox surprise. This recipe makes enough to feed 12 to 16 people, depending on how generously you cut them.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy them later, they also freeze well. Wrap individually and freeze for up to two months—just thaw and warm slightly to enjoy again.

What to Serve With Rocky Road Brownies?

Vanilla Ice Cream

The classic pairing. The cold creaminess balances out the warm, rich brownie for a dreamy bite.

Espresso or Coffee

The bitterness of coffee cuts through the sweetness and enhances the chocolate notes.

Fresh Strawberries

A fresh, fruity option that adds a pop of color and natural sweetness.

Whipped Cream

Light and airy, whipped cream adds a lovely contrast to the dense brownies.

Salted Caramel Drizzle

A little goes a long way—drizzle over the top for added depth and a touch of saltiness.

Chocolate Ganache

For serious chocoholics, a warm ganache poured over each square makes these even more indulgent.

Crushed Pretzels

Sprinkle some on top for extra crunch and a salty-sweet vibe.

Toasted Coconut

A tropical twist that layers in texture and mild sweetness.

Want More Dessert Bar Ideas?

If you loved these Rocky Road Brownies, here are a few more you might enjoy:

Try our Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars for a classic with a chewy twist.
Don’t miss the Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls when you want a fruity swirl.
White Chocolate Orange Creamsicle Truffles bring a bright, zesty alternative to brownies.
You might also fall in love with our Butter Pecan Cheesecake for something ultra decadent.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go with walnuts or pecans? Did you sneak in some extra chocolate?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. If you have questions, ask away—let’s help each other bake smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and comfort treats on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to dessert inspiration.

Conclusion

Rocky Road Brownies are the perfect combination of comfort and creativity. Easy to make and even easier to love, they bring smiles to faces of all ages. Whether for a casual bake or a celebratory table, this brownie variation never disappoints.