Rocky Road is an ice cream that’s made with a blend of chocolate ice cream, marshmallows, and nuts. It’s a delicious treat that’s been enjoyed for over 100 years now and is considered by many culinary food experts to be a revolutionary ice cream flavor because it deviated from the traditional three ice cream flavors: vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry. It’s also an ice cream that has earned its own holiday, a holiday called National Rocky Road Day, which is celebrated on June 2nd every year.

The History of Rocky Road Ice Cream

Rocky Road ice cream was first invented by William Dreyer of Oakland, California in 1929. He created the ice cream by cutting up marshmallows and walnuts using his wife’s sewing scissors. His partner, Joseph Edy, then began to make the ice cream using that mixture of ingredients—although toasted almonds would later be swapped in place of the walnuts.

An alternative story about the invention of Rocky Road ice cream states that William Dreyer based his recipe on an ice cream flavor invented by his friend, George Farren at Fenton’s Creamery. Regardless of who invented Rocky Road, one thing is for sure: it’s a delicious treat that’s still enjoyed to this day.

Amazing Facts About Rocky Road Ice Cream

Have you ever wondered where Rocky Road ice cream got its name, or when it became popular? Well, if you have, then you’re in luck because we did a deep dive on this ice cream and have come back here to report what we’ve found. The below facts are perfect for anyone to casually toss around as they celebrate National Rocky Road Day.

• Rocky Road Ice Cream is named after an Australian method of preserving sweets and nuts by mixing all of the ingredients together for long trips.
• Although Dreyer, Fenton, or Edy are credited with inventing Rocky Road Ice Cream, the first recipe for it appeared in the 1920 edition of Rigby’s Reliable Candy Teacher.
• The first Rocky Road recipe used honey crème whip, broken almond macaroons, whole pecans, and walnuts, all placed on chocolate ice cream with a cherry.

Observing National Rocky Road Day

National Rocky Road Day can be observed by treating yourself to Rocky Road ice cream. This can be in a bowl or served in ice cream cones—it’s your call. While you’re enjoying this tasty ice cream, be sure to use the hashtag #NationalRockyRoadDay on your social media accounts.