Decadent Egg-Free Rocky Road Ice Cream
Rocky road ice cream is a classic for a reason! This combination of creamy egg-free chocolate ice cream with peanuts, chocolate chips, and mini marshmallows makes for a dreamy treat on a hot summer day.

If you’re an Ohio native, you know that the weather is often a topic of debate. We’re either sweltering in the heat or shivering in the cold, with very little in between. My ideal summer day sits comfortably around 78 degrees, laden with sunshine and a refreshing breeze. Although recent days have brought cooler temperatures, the local forecast promises a sweltering week ahead.
Our freezer brims with ice pops and even homemade strawberry popsicles for those extended poolside afternoons. However, I decided to diversify our frozen treats by whipping up a batch of ice cream to cool down the heat.
What is Rocky Road Ice Cream?
You may have savored rocky road ice cream numerous times without pondering what exactly constitutes it. Essentially, rocky road is chocolate ice cream laced with nuts and marshmallows.
Delving into its history, I learned that walnuts were originally the nut of choice, though adaptations over time have led to a more common use of almonds or peanuts in the recipe.
Rocky road paved the way for the inclusion of mix-ins in ice creams, inspiring variations like strawberry s’mores ice cream! My version of this classic also incorporates chocolate chips, because who can resist more chocolate?
Ice Cream Maker Tips and Tricks
For this recipe, unlike no-churn ice cream, you will need to churn the base in an ice cream maker, which is entirely worthwhile! My ice cream maker is instrumental in crafting everything from rocky road ice cream to baklava ice cream and beyond.
It’s best to use a 2-quart ice cream maker; this provides ample space for the mixture to aerate and expand while churning. If your ice cream maker is smaller, consider churning the mixture in batches to avoid overflow.
Ensure that the base of your ice cream machine has been frozen for at least 24 hours before you begin. Storing it in the freezer at all times might be a smart move if you’re a frequent ice cream maker!
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, but it typically takes around 20-30 minutes for a batch to churn. Once done, the ice cream will have a soft-serve texture; transfer it to an air-tight container and freeze for several hours for a firmer consistency.
How to Make Rocky Road Ice Cream
If you’ve never made ice cream before, this easy recipe is accessible and straightforward. Although the ice cream base does require cooking and chilling, the process is quite simple.
Rocky Road Ice Cream Ingredients
The chocolate ice cream base calls for:
- 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups 2% milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
This egg-free base simplifies the process and makes it suitable for anyone with egg allergies. If you prefer a classic chocolate ice cream, simply churn the base without the mix-ins.
The fun comes from the mix-ins, which include:
- 1/2 cup chopped peanuts (or walnuts/almonds if you prefer or have nut allergies)
- 1/2 cup miniature chocolate chips
- 1 cup miniature marshmallows
The marshmallows remain soft even after freezing—which is simply delightful!
Making the Ice Cream
Start by preparing the chocolate ice cream base. In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk and cocoa powder, stirring until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened—this should take about five minutes.
After removing the pan from the heat, let it cool slightly before whisking in the heavy cream, milk, and vanilla. Place the mixture in an airtight container and refrigerate until cold, allowing it to chill for up to a day if you wish.
When you’re ready to churn the ice cream, pour the base into your ice cream maker, following the manufacturer’s guidelines. Halfway through the churning time, add the chopped nuts, chocolate chips, and mini marshmallows.
For an extra touch, consider topping your rocky road ice cream with additional marshmallows or chopped nuts. You can also serve it in a homemade ice cream cone for an exceptional treat!
Whichever way you indulge, this rocky road ice cream is bound to satisfy!
