Rocky Mountain Chocolate Chews

Rocky Mountain Chocolate Chews are a delightful confection that combines the chewiness of marshmallows with the rich, deep flavor of semi-sweet chocolate and the earthy crunch of nuts. Originating from the mountainous regions of the United States, these treats are reminiscent of the rugged yet beautiful landscapes they are named after. Perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth, these chews offer a harmony of textures and flavors.

Ingredients

• Unsalted Butter - 1/2 cup
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips - 2 cups
• Mini Marshmallows - 4 cups
• Chopped Nuts (such as pecans or walnuts) - 1 cup
• Vanilla Extract - 1 teaspoon

Each of these ingredients contributes to the unique taste and texture of the chocolate chews. It’s important to choose high-quality semi-sweet chocolate chips for a rich flavor, and mini marshmallows for the perfect chewy texture.

Preparation

Before you begin, make sure to gather all your ingredients and tools. This recipe requires a baking sheet, a saucepan, and a mixing spoon. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, while cooking and setting can take up to an entire hour.

Step 1: Melting the Ingredients

In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat. Slowly add the semi-sweet chocolate chips, stirring constantly until both the butter and chocolate have completely melted and combined into a smooth mixture.

Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. This will add a subtle aromatic flavor to the chocolate mix.

Step 2: Creating the Chew Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, add the mini marshmallows and chopped nuts. Carefully pour the melted chocolate mixture over the marshmallows and nuts.

Using a wooden spoon or spatula, gently fold the mixture until every piece of the mini marshmallows and chopped nuts is coated with the chocolate mixture. Be careful not to overmix, as the marshmallows can become too melted.

Step 3: Setting the Chews

Prepare your baking sheet by lining it with wax paper or parchment paper. Spoon the mixture onto the sheet in heaping tablespoons, leaving enough space between each to spread slightly.

Allow the chocolate chews to set for at least an hour. You can place them in the refrigerator to speed up this process, though they set nicely at room temperature as well.

Enjoying Rocky Mountain Chocolate Chews

Once the chews have completely set, they are ready to enjoy! These treats pair excellently with a glass of milk or a warm cup of coffee. Their rugged texture and comforting flavors make them perfect for sharing during mountain hikes, family gatherings, or quiet nights in with a movie.

Store the remaining chews in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. They can keep at room temperature for up to two weeks, but we doubt they’ll last that long once the family gets a taste!

Rocky Mountain Chocolate Chews are more than just a dessert; they're a nostalgic treat that evokes the spirit of adventure and the love of sweets shared among friends and family.