Rocky Road Bars with Natural Fruits, 70% Chocolate, and Healthy Marshmallows This wholesome take on rocky road bars features rich 70% dark chocolate, naturally dried fruits, crunchy nuts, and fluffy marshmallows for a treat that’s both delicious and nourishing. For the most natural option, you can use Dandies vegan marshmallows.
Did You Know?
Rocky Road has been a beloved treat since the 1850s gold rush in Australia. Its "rocky" texture from fruits and nuts inspired the name, making it a global classic!
Yield
16 bars
Ingredients
12 ounces 70% dark chocolate (chopped or chips)
2 tablespoons coconut oil or unsalted butter (optional, for smoothness)
1 cup unsweetened dried fruits (e.g., cranberries, cherries, apricots, or raisins)
1 cup nuts (e.g., almonds, hazelnuts, or walnuts), roughly chopped
1 cup mini marshmallows (Dandies or natural marshmallows preferred)
1/4 teaspoon sea salt (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- Chop the dried fruits and nuts into small, bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate
- Set up a double boiler: Place a heatproof bowl over a saucepan of simmering water, ensuring the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water.
- Add the chopped dark chocolate and coconut oil (if using). Stir continuously until melted and smooth. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
- Reserve a small handful of fruits and nuts for topping.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the remaining dried fruits, nuts, and marshmallows. Pour the melted chocolate over the mixture and gently stir until everything is evenly coated.
Step 4: Assemble the Rocky Road
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly and pressing down lightly with a spatula.
- Sprinkle the reserved fruits and nuts over the top, pressing them gently into the surface. Sprinkle with sea salt if desired.
Step 5: Chill and Cut
- Refrigerate the rocky road for at least 2 hours, or until fully set.
- Lift the block out of the pan using the parchment overhang and cut into 16 bars with a sharp knife.
Step 6: Serve or Store
- Serve at room temperature for the best texture. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Nutritional Information (Per Bar)
Calories: 170, Protein: 3g, Carbohydrates: 17g, Fiber: 2g, Net Carbohydrates: 15g, Fat: 10g, Saturated Fat: 6g, Cholesterol: 0mg, Sodium: 40mg, Sugars: 12g, Glycemic Index: Medium
How These Rocky Road Bars Will Look and Taste
These bars boast a glossy chocolate coating studded with colorful dried fruits, crunchy nuts, and fluffy marshmallows. The natural sweetness of the fruits pairs perfectly with the rich dark chocolate and light, airy marshmallows.
Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money
- Use bulk dried fruits and nuts for a budget-friendly option.
- Dandies marshmallows are a vegan and gelatin-free choice for a natural twist.
- Toast the nuts lightly before adding them for enhanced flavor and crunch.
- Experiment with different nut combinations like pistachios or macadamias for a gourmet variation.
- Freeze the bars for make-ahead treats—just thaw before serving.
- Swap coconut oil with unsalted butter or leave it out for a purer chocolate taste.
- Add a sprinkle of shredded coconut or cacao nibs for extra texture.
- Use 85% dark chocolate for a lower-sugar, intensely rich version.
- Make individual rocky road cups by spooning the mixture into muffin liners.
- Package in festive boxes or tins for holiday gifting.
Let’s Learn About Choosing Natural Marshmallows
Natural marshmallows, like Dandies, are made without gelatin, artificial flavors, or high-fructose corn syrup, making them a wholesome option. Their soft texture and sweet flavor make them a perfect addition to rocky road bars. If you’re looking to keep your treats as natural as possible, Dandies or homemade marshmallows are an excellent choice.