Levain Bakery Rocky Road Cookies

Name: Levain Bakery Rocky Road Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1 cup mini marshmallows; 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Indulge in the rich, chocolatey goodness of Levain Bakery's famous Rocky Road Cookies, featuring gooey marshmallows and crunchy nuts in every bite.

Created by

Kate Phillips

Last updated on 2025-12-19T16:25:58.474Z

These cookies are inspired by the iconic treats from Levain Bakery, known for their thick and chewy textures. The combination of chocolate, nuts, and marshmallows creates a delightful experience that’s perfect for any occasion.

        Why You'll Love These Cookies
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with gooey marshmallows
Crunchy nuts that add the perfect texture
A decadent treat that satisfies any sweet tooth
Perfect for sharing or indulging on your own

      

The Perfect Sweet Treat

Rocky Road Cookies are a delightful blend of rich chocolate and playful textures. The combination of gooey marshmallows and crunchy nuts creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Each bite offers a satisfying contrast, making these cookies more than just a dessert; they are an experience. Whether you're hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these cookies are sure to impress.

These cookies are not just about taste, but also about the joy of baking. The process of mixing, folding, and shaping the dough brings a sense of nostalgia and comfort. As the cookies bake, the delightful aroma fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around. Baking these Rocky Road Cookies can be a fun activity, perfect for families or friends looking to create sweet memories together.

Tips for Perfect Cookies

To achieve the best texture in your Rocky Road Cookies, ensure your butter is softened at room temperature. This will allow for better creaming with the sugars, resulting in a light and fluffy dough. Additionally, be careful not to overmix once you add the dry ingredients. Mixing until just combined helps maintain a tender cookie that won’t be tough or chewy.

When shaping your cookies, don’t hesitate to make them large! The generous portions ensure that each cookie remains thick and chewy in the center, while the edges develop a slightly crispy texture. Keep in mind that they will spread slightly during baking, so allow enough space on your baking sheet for each cookie to grow.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once your Rocky Road Cookies are cool, store them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. They can last for up to a week at room temperature, making them a perfect make-ahead treat for busy weeks. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them for up to three months. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

For an added touch, serve your cookies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. This transforms your cookie experience into a decadent dessert that rivals any bakery treat. Whether enjoyed alone or shared with loved ones, these cookies are sure to bring smiles and satisfaction.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 cup mini marshmallows
1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Add Mix-Ins

Fold in the chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and chopped nuts until evenly distributed.

Shape and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop large portions of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are set. The centers will look slightly underbaked.

Cool and Serve

Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your delicious Rocky Road Cookies!

Why Rocky Road?

The name 'Rocky Road' evokes images of adventure and indulgence, and these cookies live up to that promise. Originally inspired by a flavor of ice cream, the combination of chocolate, marshmallows, and nuts has become a beloved classic. This cookie version captures all the delightful elements of the original dessert, making it a perfect sweet treat for chocolate lovers.

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the signature flavor profile. Semi-sweet chocolate chips provide a rich base, while the marshmallows introduce a delightful chewiness. The nuts, whether walnuts or pecans, add a satisfying crunch that elevates the overall experience. Together, these elements create a cookie that is truly irresistible.

Perfect Pairings

These Rocky Road Cookies pair beautifully with a variety of beverages. A glass of cold milk is a classic choice, balancing the rich chocolate flavor perfectly. Alternatively, a cup of coffee or hot cocoa can enhance the chocolate experience, making for a cozy afternoon treat. For those seeking a more adventurous pairing, consider serving them alongside a fruity red wine for an unexpected twist.

If you're looking to elevate your dessert game, consider turning these cookies into a sundae. Crumble a few cookies over a scoop of your favorite ice cream and drizzle with chocolate syrup for a delicious layered dessert. The combination of textures and flavors will delight your taste buds and impress your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different nuts?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite nuts or even omit them if you prefer.

→ How should I store these cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months. Just scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag.

→ What can I use instead of eggs?

You can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons of water).