Rocky Road Sundae from Swensen's features rich chocolate ice cream layered with crunchy toasted almonds, fluffy marshmallows, and a drizzle of smooth chocolate sauce, topped with whipped cream and a bright cherry, delivering a delightful blend of creamy, nutty, and sweet textures.
Equipments
- Ice cream scoop
- Sundae glass or bowl
- Spoon
- Small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl (for chocolate sauce, if warming)
- Whisk or electric mixer (for whipped cream, if homemade)
- Measuring spoons
- Serving spoon
- Cherry pitter (optional, if using fresh cherries)
Ingredients
- Chocolate ice cream
- Toasted almonds
- Marshmallows
- Chocolate sauce
- Whipped cream
- Maraschino cherry
To achieve the perfect Rocky Road Sundae, ensure you use high-quality chocolate ice cream as the base to capture the rich, creamy flavor. Freshly toasted almonds provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts well with the soft marshmallows, so toast them lightly to enhance their aroma without burning. Smooth chocolate sauce can be warmed gently in a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl to achieve the ideal drizzle consistency. Whipped cream should be freshly made using a whisk or mixer for a light, airy texture, while maraschino cherries add a bright, sweet finish on top. Your homemade Rocky Road Sundae from Swensen's copycat menu will deliver the same delightful blend of creamy, nutty, and sweet textures found in the original dessert.
Instructions
- **Instructions:**
- Scoop chocolate ice cream into a sundae glass or bowl.
- Sprinkle toasted almonds over the ice cream.
- Add marshmallows on top of the almonds and ice cream.
- Drizzle chocolate sauce over the ice cream, almonds, and marshmallows.
- Top with a generous swirl of whipped cream.
- Place a maraschino cherry on top of the whipped cream.
- Serve immediately with a spoon.
Substitution
Rocky Road Sundae from Swensen's copycat menu combines chocolate ice cream, toasted almonds, marshmallows, chocolate sauce, whipped cream, and a maraschino cherry for a classic indulgence. If you don't have toasted almonds, substitute with other nuts like pecans or walnuts for a similar crunch. In case marshmallows are unavailable, mini marshmallow bits or a drizzle of marshmallow fluff can provide the desired sweetness and texture. Your homemade chocolate sauce can be easily replaced with store-bought syrup to save time without sacrificing flavor. When using fresh cherries, a cherry pitter makes preparation easier but can be skipped if necessary.
Tips
Ensure the toasted almonds are cooled completely before adding to the sundae to maintain their crunchiness. When drizzling the chocolate sauce, warm it gently in a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl to achieve a smooth, pourable consistency that won't harden too quickly. If making whipped cream from scratch, chill your mixing bowl and whisk or beaters beforehand for better volume and texture. Your sundae is best served immediately to enjoy the contrast between cold ice cream and warm sauce without the marshmallows melting too much.
Nutritions
A Rocky Road Sundae from Swensen's contains approximately 350-450 calories per serving, primarily from saturated fats and sugars found in chocolate ice cream, whipped cream, and chocolate sauce. The toasted almonds contribute healthy fats, protein, and fiber, while marshmallows add extra sugar but minimal nutrients. Your intake of calcium and antioxidants benefits slightly from the dairy content and almonds. Moderation is key to enjoy this rich dessert without excess calorie or sugar consumption.
Storage
To preserve your Rocky Road Sundae freshness, store leftover components separately to avoid sogginess; keep chocolate ice cream tightly sealed in the freezer while toasted almonds and marshmallows remain best in an airtight container at room temperature. Chocolate sauce can be refrigerated in a sealed jar and gently reheated in a microwave-safe bowl or saucepan before use. Whipped cream should be consumed freshly made or stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours to maintain its texture.
Variation or Alternatives
Swap toasted almonds for chopped pecans or hazelnuts to vary the nutty crunch while keeping the texture contrast. Use mini marshmallows or homemade marshmallow fluff if you prefer a softer, creamier sweetness in your Rocky Road Sundae. Warm the chocolate sauce slightly in a microwave-safe bowl for a silkier drizzle, or try adding a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder for a subtle spicy twist. You can replace maraschino cherry with fresh cherries or a berry compote to add a natural tartness that balances the rich chocolate flavors.
Allergies
Rocky Road Sundae from Swensen's contains common allergens such as almonds and dairy, which may trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Marshmallows might contain gelatin, potentially causing issues for those with pork or beef allergies or dietary restrictions. If you have nut or dairy allergies, avoid this dessert or consult with the restaurant before ordering to ensure your safety.
Why this recipe?
Swensen's Rocky Road Sundae features a rich combination of chocolate ice cream, marshmallows, and crunchy nuts that creates a perfect balance of creamy, chewy, and crunchy textures. The sundae's unique flavor profile and high-quality ingredients make it a memorable dessert choice that appeals to a wide range of palates. Making a copycat version allows you to recreate this indulgent experience at home, ensuring freshness and personalized topping options. Your homemade Rocky Road Sundae delivers the nostalgic satisfaction of Swensen's classic treat without breaking the bank.