No-Bake Rocky Road Squares Recipe
If ever there was a treat that captures the playful spirit of childhood and the ease of grown-up entertaining, it’s these No-Bake Rocky Road Squares. This recipe layers gooey marshmallows, crunchy nuts, and golden cookie pieces under a luscious chocolate blanket — all without needing to turn on your oven. Chocolate meets crunch and chew in every bite, perfect for when you want something both nostalgic and impressive for any gathering or as a beloved family snack. Trust me, once you whip up a batch of No-Bake Rocky Road Squares, you’ll want to make them part of your regular rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things simple and irresistibly delicious. Each ingredient brings essential richness, texture, or a pop of flavor and color to your No-Bake Rocky Road Squares, so don’t skip the details—they all pull their own weight.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (2 cups): The chocolate forms the irresistible base that ties all the other flavors together.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup): Butter gives silky richness to the chocolate and helps the squares set perfectly.
- Light corn syrup or honey (1/4 cup): This secret ingredient ensures your chocolate mixture stays glossy and beautifully smooth, plus adds a subtle sweetness.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): A splash of vanilla deepens the flavors and adds classic dessert warmth.
- Mini marshmallows (2 cups): These bring chewy, fluffy pockets that contrast with all the crunchy bits.
- Chopped graham crackers or digestive biscuits (1 cup): They offer a crumbly cookie crunch and just the right hint of toasty flavor.
- Chopped walnuts or almonds (3/4 cup): For a nutty bite and satisfying texture, plus that little oomph a classic rocky road needs.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Don’t skip the salt—it pulls all the sweet flavors together and enhances the chocolate.
How to Make No-Bake Rocky Road Squares
Step 1: Prep Your Pan
Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang so you can easily lift out the finished squares. This not only prevents sticking but also guarantees quick and easy removal — no crumbling or stuck-on chocolate drama!
Step 2: Melt and Mix the Chocolate Base
In a large saucepan over low heat, combine the chocolate chips, butter, and corn syrup (or honey). Stir gently and constantly until everything is melted and glossy smooth. Patience is key — keep the heat low to avoid burning or separating the chocolate and butter.
Step 3: Add Vanilla and Salt
Remove the pan from heat and quickly stir in the vanilla extract and salt. This step infuses your chocolaty mixture with warmth and rounds out all the sweetness, giving those No-Bake Rocky Road Squares their signature depth.
Step 4: Cool the Mixture Slightly
Let the chocolate mixture cool on the counter for about 5 minutes. This pause is important so your marshmallows keep their puffy texture and don’t completely melt into the warm chocolate when you stir them in.
Step 5: Fold in the Mix-Ins
Gently fold in the mini marshmallows, cookie or graham cracker pieces, and chopped nuts. Make sure everything is evenly coated in chocolate so every bar gets a perfect balance of sweet, crunchy, and chewy in every single bite.
Step 6: Press and Chill
Scrape the sticky, decadent mixture into your prepared pan. Use a spatula or your clean hands (a little butter on your fingertips helps!) to press it down evenly and smooth the top. Pop the pan in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or until everything is firm and ready to slice.
Step 7: Cut and Serve
Lift the set slab out using the parchment overhang and cut into 16 generous squares. The No-Bake Rocky Road Squares are now ready to steal the spotlight on any snack tray or dessert platter!
How to Serve No-Bake Rocky Road Squares

Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of melted white chocolate, or even a few sprinkles of flaky sea salt can really make your No-Bake Rocky Road Squares pop. For a bit of fun, add some extra mini marshmallows or chopped nuts on top just before the chocolate fully sets.
Side Dishes
These rich morsels pair beautifully with a glass of cold milk or a hot cup of coffee. Want to make things extra special? Serve them alongside a bowl of fresh berries or some vanilla ice cream for an ultra-indulgent dessert plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack the squares high on a vintage cake stand or wrap them in parchment and twine for adorable party favors. For an adorable twist, cut them into mini squares and thread with fresh fruit for sweet dessert skewers at your next gathering. However you present them, these No-Bake Rocky Road Squares always bring the wow factor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover No-Bake Rocky Road Squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to a week, making them perfect for make-ahead treats or easy, grab-and-go snacks throughout the week.
Freezing
Thinking ahead? No problem! Stack your squares between layers of wax paper, seal them in a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to three months. Simply thaw in the fridge overnight before serving, and they’ll taste as fresh as ever.
Reheating
Since these treats are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, there’s no need to reheat. If you do want a softer, gooier bite, leave the squares at room temperature for 15–30 minutes before serving. They’ll soften up to the perfect texture for that melt-in-your-mouth experience.
FAQs
Can I substitute the nuts for something else?
Absolutely! Try adding pretzel pieces, dried cranberries, or even crispy cereal for a nut-free option. The beauty of No-Bake Rocky Road Squares is how easy it is to customize them based on allergies or preferences.
How do I cut the squares without them crumbling?
Be sure to chill the slab thoroughly before slicing, and use a sharp knife warmed under hot water (and dried) for the cleanest cuts. The parchment paper “handles” also make lifting and slicing a breeze.
What’s the best way to make these ahead for a party?
Prepare the squares up to two days in advance and store them in the fridge. Cut them into portions just before serving to keep the edges neat and the presentation fresh.
Can I use dark chocolate or milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Of course! Dark chocolate delivers a richer, more intense flavor, while milk chocolate will make them a little sweeter and creamier. The recipe is wonderfully forgiving, so pick your favorite variety or even mix different kinds.
Are No-Bake Rocky Road Squares kid-friendly?
Definitely! Kids adore the combination of marshmallows and chocolate, and with a little supervision, they can help with every step (especially stirring and pressing into the pan).
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re making them for a potluck, holiday treat box, or simply to satisfy a chocolate craving, No-Bake Rocky Road Squares are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. I can’t wait for you to fall in love with their gooey, crunchy charm. Give this recipe a try and watch them disappear!
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No-Bake Rocky Road Squares Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 16 squares 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these irresistible No-Bake Rocky Road Squares, a delightful combination of chocolate, marshmallows, nuts, and graham crackers. A simple yet decadent treat that is perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings!
Ingredients
For the Rocky Road Squares:
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup or honey
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 cup chopped graham crackers or digestive biscuits
- 3/4 cup chopped walnuts or almonds
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper.
- Melt Ingredients: In a saucepan, melt chocolate chips, butter, and corn syrup over low heat until smooth. Stir in vanilla and salt. Let cool for 5 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Fold in marshmallows, graham crackers, and nuts until coated. Press into the pan.
- Chill: Refrigerate for 2 hours until firm. Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
- Store in the fridge for up to 1 week or freeze for longer storage.
- Experiment with different mix-ins like pretzels or dried fruit.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg