Decadent Levain Bakery Rocky Road Cookies in Just 30 Minutes

Last Updated on February 13, 2026 by Leonardo Recipes Team

There s nothing quite like the enchanting smell of freshly baked cookies wafting through the kitchen, and my Levain Bakery Rocky Road Cookies take that experience to a whole new level. As soon as the oven timer dings, you re greeted with a delightful blend of rich chocolate, crunchy cashews, and gooey marshmallows that s impossible to resist. These cookies are the answer to your sweet tooth cravings and can be whipped up in just 30 minutes making them perfect for last-minute gatherings or a cozy evening at home. With a crispy exterior and a soft, indulgent center, they promise to impress everyone from your family to unexpected guests. Get ready to bring some homemade warmth into your life with this decadent recipe that s sure to become a new favorite!

Why are Levain Bakery Rocky Road Cookies a must-try?

Irresistible taste: These cookies combine rich chocolate with crunchy cashews and chewy marshmallows for a flavor explosion.
Quick prep time: Ready in just 30 minutes, they re perfect for spontaneous treats.
Easy to make: Even novice bakers can impress with this simple recipe.
Versatile variations: Customize easily with nut-free or gluten-free options, catering to everyone s preferences.
Crowd-pleaser: Ideal for sharing at gatherings or satisfying family cravings!

Levain Bakery Rocky Road Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Base
Cold Butter (1 cup) Provides richness and texture. Note: Use cut cubes for optimal creaming.
Brown Sugar (1 cup, packed) Adds moisture and depth of flavor. Note: Enhances chewiness.
Granulated Sugar (1/2 cup) Sweetens and contributes to browning.
Large Eggs (2) Binds ingredients and adds moisture.
Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons) Enhances overall flavor.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (3/4 cup) Provides rich chocolate flavor.
Cake Flour (1 cup) Contributes to a delicate texture.
All-Purpose Flour (1 cup) Adds structure.
Cornstarch (2 tablespoons) Helps maintain softness and chewiness.
Baking Soda (1 teaspoon) Acts as a leavening agent to help cookies rise.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon) Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.

For the Mix-Ins
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (1 cup) Adds a melty, chocolaty experience.
Mini Marshmallows (1 cup) Introduces sweetness and chewy texture.
Chopped Cashews (1 cup) Provides crunchy texture and nutty flavor. Note: Substitute with sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.

How to Make Levain Bakery Rocky Road Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 410 °F. This ensures that your cookies will bake perfectly, developing that wonderful crispy exterior while keeping the centers soft and gooey.

2. Cream the cold butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together for 4 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving a delightful texture in your cookies.

3. Add the large eggs and vanilla extract, mixing on medium speed for an additional minute until fully incorporated. This adds moisture and a lovely flavor to the cookie dough.

4. Fold in the cocoa powder, cake flour, all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt until just combined. Be gentle here to keep your cookies tender and avoid overmixing!

5. Stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and chopped cashews until evenly distributed. This will create those delightful pockets of gooeyness and crunch in each bite.

6. Roll the dough into large balls, about 5-6 ounces each, and place them onto a lined baking sheet. You can also decorate the tops with extra chocolate chips and marshmallows for an appealing touch!

7. Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are firm and the centers remain soft. The cookies will continue to set as they cool, so don t worry if they look a little underbaked!

8. Press the edges gently towards the center with a spatula right after removing them from the oven. This will help achieve that perfect bakery-style shape.

9. Let them rest on the baking sheet for 15 minutes to allow the cookies to firm up before transferring them to a cooling rack. This will keep them soft inside!

Optional: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Levain Bakery Rocky Road Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness and delicious gooeyness.

Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to 7 days, keeping them soft and flavorful.

Freezer: Freeze cookie dough balls for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, add an extra 2-3 minutes to the baking time if baking from frozen.

Reheating: To enjoy leftover cookies warm, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350 °F for a few minutes, making those Levain Bakery Rocky Road Cookies feel freshly made again.

Expert Tips for Levain Bakery Rocky Road Cookies

• Chill Your Dough: Keep the cookie dough in the fridge for 15-30 minutes before baking to enhance flavors and prevent excessive spreading.
• Perfectly Creamed Butter: Make sure your cold butter is cut into cubes for easy mixing, ensuring a light and airy texture.
• Mix with Care: Avoid overmixing once you add the dry ingredients. This is key to achieving the tender, chewy consistency of your Levain Bakery Rocky Road Cookies.
• Size Matters: For that iconic bakery-style look, roll your cookie dough into larger balls, about 5-6 ounces each, and leave space between them on the baking sheet.
• Press to Shape: If your cookies spread too much during baking, gently reshape them with a spatula right after they come out of the oven for that perfect thick appearance.

Make Ahead Options

These Levain Bakery Rocky Road Cookies are fantastic for meal prep and can save you valuable time on busy days! You can prepare the cookie dough and form it into balls up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate the pre-formed dough on the baking sheet (cover with plastic wrap to prevent drying). You can also make the dough and freeze the balls for up to 3 months just bake them straight from the freezer, adding an extra couple of minutes to the baking time. When you re ready to indulge, bake the chilled or frozen cookie dough and enjoy just as delicious, gooey cookies with minimal effort. This way, you can treat yourself without the stress of last-minute preparations!

What to Serve with Levain Bakery Rocky Road Cookies?

Bring sweet joy to your table with delightful pairings that enhance every bite of your chocolatey treats.

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing, the creamy richness perfectly balances the cookies gooeyness while adding a refreshing contrast.
  Indulge in the warmth of freshly baked cookies topped with chilled vanilla ice cream for a heavenly experience.

• Drizzled Hot Fudge: Elevate your dessert with decadence! The warm fudge amplifies the chocolate flavors and adds a luxurious touch.
  A drizzle over the cookies transforms them into a gourmet treat that brings smiles to every gathering.

• Fresh Berries: Raspberries or strawberries introduce a vibrant, tart element that cuts through the sweetness of the cookies.
  The refreshing burst of berries complements the rich chocolate, creating a delightful flavor balance that s irresistible.

• Milk: A tall glass of cold milk is a timeless companion, enhancing the cookie s flavors and mellowing sweetness.
  This pairing embraces the nostalgia of childhood treats, making every bite a comforting memory.

• Coffee: A rich cup of coffee deepens the chocolatey notes, creating a sophisticated experience perfect for adults.
  The warmth and slight bitterness of coffee pairs beautifully, enriching the overall dessert experience.

• Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: For a delightful bite-sized treat, these decadent fruits echo the cookie s flavor and texture.
  Each strawberry provides a juicy burst that beautifully complements the rich chocolate cookie for the ultimate indulgence.

• Nutty Biscotti: For a crunchy texture, biscotti adds an exciting contrast to the soft, chewy cookies while enhancing cashew flavors.
  Dipping biscotti into coffee or enjoying it alongside your cookies brings a delightful twist to your dessert spread.

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds lightness and a creamy touch, enhancing the overall dessert experience.
  This sweet, fluffy addition elevates your cookies, making them feel extra special for any occasion.

Levain Bakery Rocky Road Cookies Variations

Feel free to explore and customize these cookies with these exciting variations that will tantalize your taste buds!

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for a cookie that everyone can enjoy without compromising texture.
• Nut-Free: Substitute cashews with sunflower seeds or omit nuts altogether for a purely marshmallow-chocolate delight.
• Vegan: Swap in vegan butter and flax eggs to enjoy these cookies in a plant-based version, proving indulgence can be dairy-free!
• Extra Chocolate: For the true chocolate lovers, replace semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor and a deep cocoa experience.
• Coconut Twist: Add shredded sweetened coconut to the dough for a tropical twist that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
• Spiced Up: Mix in a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne for a subtle spicy kick perfect for surprising your guests!
• Fruit Fusion: Incorporate dried cherries or cranberries for a fruity burst that contrasts beautifully with the chocolates and marshmallows.
• Coffee Infusion: Add a teaspoon of instant coffee granules to the cookie dough this enhances the chocolate flavor and adds an extra layer of richness.

Levain Bakery Rocky Road Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe ingredients for the Levain Bakery Rocky Road Cookies?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, ensure your eggs are fresh check the expiration date to avoid any off-taste. When selecting butter, choose unsalted and keep it chilled but cut into cubes for easier creaming. If using cashews, look for ones that are crunchy and not stale; they should be free of dark spots or unpleasant odors.

How should I store my Levain Bakery Rocky Road Cookies?
You can store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them soft and delicious. If you want to extend their shelf life, they re perfectly fine in the fridge for up to 7 days. Just remember to bring them to room temperature before enjoying for the best texture!

Can I freeze Levain Bakery Rocky Road Cookies?
Yes! Freezing is a great way to save these delectable cookies. Roll the dough into balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze for about 2 hours until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. When you re ready to bake, don t thaw them just bake from frozen, adding an additional 2-3 minutes to the baking time!

What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies end up spreading more than you d like, don t fret! You can gently reshape them with a spatula right after they come out of the oven. Simply press the edges toward the center to achieve that thick, bakery-style appearance. Also, consider chilling your dough for 15-30 minutes before baking next time, which can help control spreading.

Are Levain Bakery Rocky Road Cookies pet-friendly?
It s always best to keep these cookies away from pets. Ingredients like chocolate and nuts can be harmful or toxic to dogs and cats. Ensure that they re safely stored out of reach and enjoy your homemade treats worry-free!

Can I make these cookies gluten-free or nut-free?
Absolutely! To make them gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose and cake flour with a gluten-free flour blend. For a nut-free version, simply replace cashews with sunflower seeds or omit them altogether for a delightful chocolate-marshmallow cookie that everyone can enjoy!