What a wonderful gift to humanity is Rocky Road confectionary. And proudly Australian I might add. The earliest reference I can find to it dates from 1933. The following appeared in an advertisement from the Myer’s store, in Adelaide.
Rocky Roads – Delicious Combination of Chocolate, Cocoanut and Marshmallow. Usually 2/6 At Myer’s 1/6 lb. (The Advertiser. Aug 24 1933)
A couple of important ingredients were missing at that early stage, but more about that later.
My partner and I have been using Rocky Road clusters to help us through the trauma of moving house. Not that healthy I know, but sometimes you just don’t care. 😎
Of course you cannot write about Rocky Road without mentioning the Darrell Lea company and their iconic Rocklea Road. It was first produced in 1935, and is said to have been invented by Harry Lea as a gift for his wife Esther.
Peanuts were added to give a satisfying crunch. However, I would argue that there is still something missing. See those little red ‘jewels’ in the following photo from Wikipedia? They are pieces of chewy raspberry lollies, and are the secret of the true, Aussie style Rocky Road.
Here is a very simple recipe for a home-made version.
MAKE YOUR OWN ROCKY ROAD
INGREDIENTS – 1 kg milk chocolate, 2 packets marshmallows (roughly chopped), 1 packet soft raspberry lollies (chopped), 1 cup crushed peanuts, 1 cup shredded coconut.
METHOD – Melt chocolate, stir through marshmallows, raspberry lollies, nuts and coconut. Pour into a baking tray lined with baking paper, Refrigerate for 15 minutes or until chocolate has set.
Please note that some recipes suggest using glace cherries, but that would be absolutely dreadful. Raspberry lollies give a little tang that so perfectly complements the sweetness of chocolate and marshmallow.
The best choice when making Rocky Road.
Whoever came up with the idea for this confectionary, thanks for the pleasure you continue to give so many, but especially me. ❤️ 😍
FOR MORE ON THE HISTORY OF ROCKY ROAD, CLICK HERE.
