British Dessert

Maltesers Rocky Road Recipe

A playful British spin on classic rocky road, loaded with crisp malt balls, chocolate, and marshmallows for a sweet, shareable treat.

From the first stir of the melted chocolate to the moment you break into the set tray, this Maltesers rocky road feels like a little party in your kitchen, with a crisp snap and pockets of sweet malt and marshmallow that make every bite irresistible.

I love making this when I need an impressive yet simple dessert to bring to a gathering or to stash in the cupboard for movie nights and cozy evenings at home.

As someone who grew up with biscuit tins and chocolate boxes, this British-inspired version instantly feels familiar and comforting, and you will love how the malt balls stay delightfully crunchy in every forkful.

Recipe at a Glance

⏱Prep Time20 mins

🔥Cook Time10 mins

🕐Total Time35 mins plus setting

🍰Servings16 pieces

🇺🇸CuisineBritish

🔢Calories~260 per piece

Ingredients

2 cups malt balls (about 200 g)

1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows or small marshmallow halves (about 120 g)

1 cup dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate (170 g)

1/2 cup milk chocolate chips or chopped milk chocolate (90 g)

1/4 cup unsalted butter, roughly chopped (60 g)

1 1/2 cups rice crisps or corn flakes (about 35 g)

1/2 cup roasted salted peanuts, roughly chopped (70 g)

Substitutions & Variations

★Swap malt balls for toasted malted milk tablets broken into chunks.

★Use white chocolate or milk chocolate instead of dark for a milder sweetness.

★Replace rice crisps with corn flakes or puffed wheat for a lighter crunch.

★Substitute chopped hazelnuts or almonds if you prefer a richer, nutty bite.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1

Prep the pan and ingredients

Line a 20 x 30 cm rectangular pan or a 20 cm loose-bottomed cake pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the paper. Measure out all your ingredients so everything is ready to combine quickly.

2

Melt the chocolate and butter

In a heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water, melt the dark and milk chocolate with the butter, stirring gently, until smooth and glossy. Remove from the heat and let it cool slightly so it is thick but still flowing.

3

Toast the malt balls lightly

Spread the malt balls in a dry skillet over medium-low heat for 2 to 3 minutes, tossing gently, until they feel slightly warm and fragrant. This helps them stay crunchy in the rocky road.

4

Combine dry ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, stir together the toasted malt balls, roughly chopped peanuts, and rice crisps until evenly distributed.

5

Add the marshmallows

Scatter the mini marshmallows or marshmallow halves over the dry mixture and give a gentle stir so they are evenly scattered.

6

Coat with chocolate

Pour the warm chocolate mixture over the dry ingredients and, using a silicone spatula or wooden spoon, fold everything together until each piece is lightly coated with chocolate and the mixture looks evenly marbled.

7

Press into the pan

Tip the mixture into the prepared pan and press firmly and evenly with the back of the spatula or a small bowl, making sure the top is flat and compact for clean pieces.

8

Let it set

Allow the rocky road to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until completely firm.

9

Cut into pieces

Lift the slab out using the parchment overhang and cut into 16 equal rectangles or bite-sized squares, wiping the knife with hot water and drying between cuts for neat edges.

10

Store and serve

Line the stored pieces between parchment paper in an airtight container and keep at cool room temperature or in the fridge for up to one week.

Pro Baker Tips

✓Do not overheat the chocolate or it may seize; stir frequently and remove from heat as soon as it is smooth.

✓If the mixture feels loose after mixing, chill it for 10 minutes, then press again into the pan for a firmer set.

✓Garnish each piece with a tiny pinch of edible glitter or a drizzle of white chocolate for a festive presentation.

Storage & Serving Notes

◆Store in an airtight container at cool room temperature for up to 5 days or in the fridge for up to 10 days.

◆If the chocolate softens in warm weather, gently reset in the fridge for 15 to 20 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Maltesers rocky road pieces as a playful dessert or a thoughtful gift that brings a smile with every bite.

›Pair with a cup of English tea or a glass of dessert wine for an indulgent finish to dinner.

›Pack a couple of pieces in a small box for a sweet treat at movie night or work.

›Arrange on a festive platter with colorful berries and extra malt balls for a striking dessert table centerpiece.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular marshmallow creme instead of mini marshmallows?

You can, but the texture will be softer and more sticky. If using marshmallow creme, add just 2 to 3 tablespoons to avoid making the mixture too wet, and consider chilling the set piece a little longer.

How do I keep the malt balls crunchy in the rocky road?

Lightly toast the malt balls before mixing, and fold them in at the last moment before pressing into the pan so they do not sit in the warm chocolate too long.

Can I freeze this rocky road?

Yes, you can freeze it for up to one month. Wrap it tightly in parchment and then foil, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and cut while still cool for clean edges.

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Go Make It!

This Maltesers rocky road recipe is a joyful, crowd-pleasing dessert that feels both indulgent and easy, perfect for sharing with friends and family on any bright or cozy day.