Levain Bakery Rocky Road Cookies
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Indulge in the decadent flavors of Levain Bakery's Rocky Road Cookies, featuring rich chocolate, nuts, and marshmallows.
These cookies are inspired by the famous Levain Bakery in New York City, known for their thick, chewy, and indulgent cookies. The combination of chocolate, nuts, and marshmallows creates a delightful treat that is perfect for any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy nuts and fluffy marshmallows
- Perfectly chewy texture that satisfies every cookie lover
- Easy to make and perfect for sharing with friends and family
The Origins of Rocky Road Cookies
Rocky Road cookies have a delightful backstory that dates back to the 1920s, when a combination of chocolate, nuts, and marshmallows was first created as an ice cream flavor. The original Rocky Road ice cream was designed to bring comfort during tough times, and over the years, this iconic blend found its way into cookie recipes. Levain Bakery has taken this classic combination and elevated it into a cookie that embodies indulgence and joy, making it a favorite among cookie lovers everywhere.
These cookies are not only a treat for the taste buds, but they also evoke nostalgia. Each bite transports you to a simpler time, reminding you of cozy gatherings and sweet moments shared with loved ones. The combination of textures—from the chewy cookie base to the crunchy walnuts and fluffy marshmallows—creates a symphony of flavors that is hard to resist.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you're celebrating a birthday, hosting a bake sale, or just looking to satisfy a midnight craving, Levain Bakery's Rocky Road Cookies are the perfect treat. Their rich chocolate flavor and unique texture make them a standout addition to any dessert table. Plus, they are easy to make at home, allowing you to share the joy with family and friends without much hassle.
These cookies are also a great way to get kids involved in the kitchen. The process of mixing, scooping, and baking is fun and engaging, not to mention the excitement of enjoying the delicious results together. With a recipe this simple, you'll find yourself making these cookies time and time again.
Storing and Freezing Tips
To keep your Rocky Road Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to a week, although they are usually devoured much quicker! If you want to maintain their chewy texture, consider adding a slice of bread to the container; this helps to retain moisture.
For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature, or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds for that fresh-baked warmth.
Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix the Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
Fold in the Goodies
Gently fold in the chocolate chips, walnuts, and mini marshmallows until evenly distributed.
Scoop and Bake
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are set.
Cool and Enjoy
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy your delicious Rocky Road Cookies with a glass of milk or your favorite beverage!
Variations to Try
While the classic Rocky Road cookie recipe is undeniably delicious, feel free to experiment with different mix-ins! Consider adding peanut butter chips for a nutty twist, or swapping out walnuts for pecans or almonds. You could also try using different types of chocolate, like dark or white chocolate, to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
For a fun seasonal variation, incorporate crushed peppermint candies during the holidays or dried fruits like cranberries for a fruity touch. These variations can add a unique flair to the cookies while keeping the essence of the original recipe intact.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Rocky Road Cookies warm, alongside a glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience. The combination of warm cookies and cold ice cream creates a delightful contrast that is sure to please everyone.
For gatherings, consider creating a dessert platter featuring these cookies along with other treats like brownies, bars, and assorted candies. This colorful assortment not only makes for an appealing presentation but also offers a variety of flavors and textures for your guests to enjoy.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use different nuts?
Yes, you can substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different flavor.
→ How should I store these cookies?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to three months. Just scoop and freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag.
→ What can I serve with these cookies?
These cookies pair wonderfully with a glass of milk, coffee, or even ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
Levain Bakery Rocky Road Cookies
Indulge in the decadent flavors of Levain Bakery's Rocky Road Cookies, featuring rich chocolate, nuts, and marshmallows.
Created by: Ella Townsend
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 cookies
What You'll Need
For the Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
Gently fold in the chocolate chips, walnuts, and mini marshmallows until evenly distributed.
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are set.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g