The Not-So-Naughty Rocky Road

My son loves rocky road… or is it actually the adults who sneak most of it? I'm not sure!Either way, this is my as-healthy-as-possible version of rocky road—so you can enjoy it without too much guilt. It’s crunchy, chewy, chocolatey, and totally addictive. One bite, and you'll be coming back for more. And trust me, you will want more. It's that good. Irresistibly delicious and a total crowd-pleaser.

Makes around 8–10 pieces, depending on how generous you are with the knife!

Ingredients:

• 200 g wholemeal digestive biscuits

• 130 g butter

• 200 g dark chocolate (70% cocoa)

• A squirt of honey or maple syrup

• 150 g mix of the following: walnut pieces, hazelnuts, salted peanuts, raisins, and dried cranberries

• 2 of your favourite biscuits, chopped into small pieces (coconut chocolate or orange biscuits work beautifully)

Method:

1. Line an approx. 18 cm tin with baking paper.

2. Crush the digestives in a freezer bag using a rolling pin — or a fist, if you're like my son practicing his Taekwondo moves!

3. Melt the butter, chocolate, and honey together in a saucepan over very low heat. Stir gently until it becomes a smooth, shiny brown mixture.

4. While that melts, prepare the rest of the ingredients. Once the chocolate mix is ready, remove it from the heat and combine everything together in the pan.

5. Pour the mixture into your lined tin, pressing it down well and spreading it into the corners.

6. Chill in the fridge for at least 3 hours until firm.

7. When ready to eat, remove from the tin, peel off the baking paper, and place on a cutting board. Slice into as many pieces as you like using a sharp knife — the size is totally up to you!

Serving Tips

• Serve straight from the fridge for the perfect firm, fudgy bite.

• For a softer texture, let it sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before serving.

• Cut into mini squares for party platters or kids’ lunchboxes.

• Add a dusting of cocoa powder or powdered sugar for a pretty finish.

• For a grown-up twist, serve with a drizzle of orange liqueur or a dollop of Greek yogurt on the side.

Tips & Tricks:

Keep your Rocky Road in the fridge, stored in an airtight container. It stays fresh for up to 7 days — though it rarely lasts that long!

You can also freeze it: slice it first, wrap the pieces individually in baking paper or cling film, and pop them in a freezer-safe container or bag. To enjoy from frozen, let a piece thaw for about 20–30 minutes at room temperature.

I really hope this little gem of Not-So-Naughty Rocky Road brings big smiles to you and your favourite snack thieves. Because who said indulgence can’t wear a halo?

Happy Cooking!