There’s nothing quite like homemade ice cream, especially when it’s packed with rich flavors and delightful textures like the classic Rocky Road. Using a Cuisinart ice cream maker, you can bring this nostalgic favorite straight to your kitchen with ease.
Whether you’re an experienced home chef or a beginner eager to try your hand at frozen treats, this recipe delivers creamy, dreamy ice cream loaded with chocolate, marshmallows, and crunchy nuts. The best part?
You get to customize it to your liking and enjoy a truly indulgent dessert that beats store-bought versions any day.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through multiple recipes for Rocky Road ice cream using your Cuisinart ice cream maker—each with unique twists on the classic. From traditional versions to vegan adaptations, and even adult-inspired flavors, there’s something here for everyone.
So grab your ingredients and ice cream maker, and let’s get started on creating your next favorite frozen treat!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Rocky Road is a timeless ice cream flavor that combines smooth chocolate ice cream with fluffy marshmallows and crunchy nuts. This recipe is designed to be simple yet flexible, allowing you to create a perfectly balanced dessert with minimal fuss.
The Cuisinart ice cream maker makes the process quick and easy, churning your mixture into creamy perfection in about 25-30 minutes.
Why choose this recipe?
- Uses real ingredients for a rich and authentic flavor
- Easy-to-follow steps for beginners and pros alike
- Customizable with various mix-ins and substitutions
- Multiple recipes included, catering to different dietary preferences
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks
- Optional: 1 tablespoon bourbon or coffee extract for adult variations
Equipment
- Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker (or equivalent model)
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Freezer-safe container with lid
Instructions
- Prepare the base: In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract until the sugar and cocoa are fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
- Chill the mixture: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results. Chilling ensures a richer, creamier ice cream texture.
- Set up your ice cream maker: Ensure your Cuisinart ice cream maker bowl is frozen solid (usually overnight). Assemble the machine according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Churn the ice cream: Pour the chilled mixture into the ice cream maker and turn it on. Let it churn for about 20 minutes until it thickens to a soft-serve consistency.
- Add mix-ins: During the last 5 minutes of churning, add the mini marshmallows, chopped nuts, and chocolate chips. Allow them to incorporate evenly without over-churning.
- Freeze to set: Transfer the soft ice cream to a freezer-safe container. Cover with a lid or plastic wrap and freeze for at least 4 hours to firm up fully.
- Serve and enjoy: Scoop your homemade Rocky Road ice cream into bowls or cones and enjoy the perfect blend of chocolate, marshmallows, and nuts!
Tips & Variations
“For an extra creamy texture, try adding a tablespoon of corn syrup to the base mixture before chilling.”
Tips:
- Always ensure your ice cream maker bowl is fully frozen; this is key for proper churning.
- Do not add mix-ins too early in the process—they can sink or break down if added too soon.
- Use fresh nuts and mini marshmallows for the best texture and flavor.
Variations:
- Vegan Rocky Road: Substitute coconut milk and coconut cream for dairy, use dairy-free chocolate chips, and vegan marshmallows.
- Adult Version: Add a tablespoon of bourbon or coffee liqueur for a boozy twist.
- Nut-Free: Replace walnuts with toasted sunflower seeds or omit nuts altogether for allergy-friendly ice cream.
- Peanut Butter Rocky Road: Swirl in ½ cup of creamy peanut butter during the final minutes of churning.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (½ cup) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 |
| Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 11g |
| Cholesterol | 70mg |
| Carbohydrates | 26g |
| Sugar | 22g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fiber | 2g |
Serving Suggestions
Rocky Road ice cream is delicious on its own, but you can also elevate your dessert experience with some creative serving ideas:
- Serve alongside warm brownies or chocolate cake for a decadent dessert combo.
- Top with a drizzle of hot fudge sauce or caramel for extra indulgence.
- Pair with fresh berries or sliced bananas to add a refreshing contrast.
- Use as a filling for ice cream sandwiches with chocolate cookies.
- Sprinkle extra chopped nuts or mini marshmallows on top for added texture.
Conclusion
Making Rocky Road ice cream with your Cuisinart ice cream maker is a fun and rewarding way to enjoy a beloved classic right at home. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can craft a creamy, flavorful frozen treat packed with chocolate, marshmallows, and crunchy nuts.
Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or explore some of the tasty variations, you’ll love the homemade touch and the satisfaction that comes from creating your own ice cream masterpiece.
Don’t forget, homemade ice cream is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in your freezer for up to two weeks. Experiment with different mix-ins or try pairing it with some of our other dessert recipes like Classic Chocolate Cake, Homemade Brownies, or Easy Fruit Sorbet to keep your dessert game strong all year round.
Happy churning and bon appétit!
📖 Recipe Card: Rocky Road Ice Cream
Description: A rich and creamy homemade rocky road ice cream made with chocolate, marshmallows, and almonds. Perfectly crafted using the Cuisinart ice cream maker for a smooth texture.
Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT10M
Total Time: PT30M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1/2 cup chopped almonds
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- In a saucepan, whisk together milk, sugar, and cocoa powder over medium heat until sugar dissolves.
- Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream and vanilla extract; chill mixture for 2 hours.
- Pour chilled mixture into the Cuisinart ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer instructions.
- In the last 5 minutes of churning, add mini marshmallows, chopped almonds, and chocolate chips.
- Transfer ice cream to a container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
- Scoop and enjoy your homemade rocky road ice cream!
Nutrition: Calories: 320 | Protein: 5g | Fat: 22g | Carbs: 28g
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