Rocky Road Pie

Nothing says indulgence quite like a slice of Rocky Road Pie, where rich chocolate meets the crunch of peanuts and the fluffiness of marshmallows. This dessert is not just a treat for the taste buds; it’s a feast for the eyes with its layered textures and inviting toppings. Perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or simply a cozy night in, this pie is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into the sweet world of Rocky Road Pie and discover how easy it is to create this delightful dessert.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

Rocky Road Pie is an exceptional addition to any dessert repertoire for several reasons. First, it combines beloved flavors and textures, offering a little something for everyone. The crunchy graham cracker crust, the creamy ricotta filling, and the sweet marshmallows create a symphony of taste in every bite. Second, it’s a no-bake recipe, making it incredibly easy to prepare, especially during warmer months or when you want to avoid turning on the oven. Lastly, it’s highly customizable, allowing you to adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs. With all these factors, Rocky Road Pie is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

The Ingredient Lineup

To make this delicious Rocky Road Pie, gather the following ingredients:

• 10 whole sheet chocolate graham crackers – These will form the base of our pie, providing a delightful chocolatey crunch.
• 1/4 cup roasted, salted peanuts – These add a savory crunch that complements the sweetness.
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt – Enhances the flavors of the pie.
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted – Binds the crust together and adds richness.
• 15 ounces whole milk ricotta cheese, at room temperature – Creates a creamy, dreamy filling.
• 8 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped – The star of our show, bringing deep chocolate flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds warmth and depth to the filling.
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt – A touch more for balance in the filling.
• 1 cup mini marshmallows – These fluffy bites add sweetness and texture.
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream – For a luscious whipped topping.
• 1 tablespoon powdered sugar – Sweetens the whipped cream perfectly.
• Chopped peanuts, chopped chocolate, and marshmallows, for sprinkling on top – Finishing touches that make it visually appealing and delicious.

Appliances & Accessories

Before you start creating your Rocky Road Pie, make sure you have the following appliances and accessories on hand:

• Food processor: Ideal for crushing the graham crackers and mixing the crust.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining your filling ingredients.
• 9-inch pie dish: The perfect vessel for your pie.
• Whisk or electric mixer: For whipping the cream to fluffy perfection.
• Spatula: Useful for spreading the filling evenly in the crust.

Method: Rocky Road Pie

Ready to make your Rocky Road Pie? Follow these simple steps for a dessert that will impress your friends and family.

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

In a food processor, pulse the chocolate graham crackers until they are fine crumbs. Transfer the crumbs to a bowl and mix in the roasted, salted peanuts, melted butter, and kosher salt until well combined. The mixture should resemble wet sand.

Step 2: Form the Crust

Press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Use the back of a measuring cup or your fingers to create an even layer. Place the crust in the refrigerator to set while you prepare the filling.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, chopped semisweet chocolate, vanilla extract, and kosher salt. Use a whisk or electric mixer to blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Fold in the Marshmallows

Gently fold in the mini marshmallows into the chocolate ricotta mixture until evenly distributed. Be careful not to crush the marshmallows; we want them to stay fluffy!

Step 5: Fill the Crust

Spoon the filling into the prepared graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Smooth the top for a polished finish. Return the pie to the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours, or until set.

Step 6: Whip the Cream

In a mixing bowl, add the heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar. Using a whisk or electric mixer, whip the cream until soft peaks form. This will create a light and airy topping for your pie.

Step 7: Finish the Pie

Once the pie has set, remove it from the refrigerator. Spread the whipped cream evenly over the top of the pie. For the final touch, sprinkle with chopped peanuts, chocolate, and marshmallows to make it look extra inviting.

Dietary Customizations

If you have specific dietary needs, here are some easy customizations you can make to this Rocky Road Pie:

• Gluten-free: Substitute chocolate graham crackers with gluten-free chocolate cookies or almond meal.
• Dairy-free: Use dairy-free ricotta cheese and whipped coconut cream instead of heavy whipping cream.
• Nut-free: Omit the peanuts and use sunflower seeds for crunch or simply leave them out.
• Lower sugar: Use unsweetened cocoa powder and adjust the amount of powdered sugar in the whipped cream.

Pro Tips & Notes

• For a more intense chocolate flavor, consider using dark chocolate instead of semisweet.
• Make sure the ricotta cheese is at room temperature for smoother blending.
• If you want to make the pie ahead of time, it can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days before serving.
• Feel free to experiment with different toppings like crushed cookies or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.

Best Ways to Store

To keep your Rocky Road Pie fresh and delicious:

• Cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator.
• If you plan to keep it for more than a few days, consider freezing individual slices for a quick treat later.
• To thaw frozen slices, place them in the refrigerator for a few hours before enjoying.

Rocky Road Pie Q&A

Can I use a different filling other than ricotta cheese?

Absolutely! Cream cheese or mascarpone can be great alternatives for a rich and creamy texture.

How can I make this dessert more chocolatey?

Consider adding a layer of chocolate ganache on top of the filling before adding the whipped cream. Simply melt chocolate with cream and pour it over the filling.

Is there a way to make this pie vegan?

Yes! You can use dairy-free alternatives for the ricotta and whipped cream, such as cashew cream or silken tofu blended until smooth.

What can I serve with Rocky Road Pie?

This pie pairs beautifully with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.

For those busy weeknights when you want something sweet without the fuss, consider trying:

That’s a Wrap

Rocky Road Pie is not only a dessert that checks all the boxes for taste and texture, but it’s also a fun recipe to make. Whether you’re sharing it at a gathering or indulging in a quiet evening at home, this pie is bound to bring joy and satisfaction. With its simple preparation and delightful flavors, there’s no reason not to whip up this delicious creation.

So grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and let the sweet adventure begin! Enjoy every bite of your homemade Rocky Road Pie, and don’t forget to share with friends and family – if you can bear to!