June 2 marks this year's National Rocky Road Ice Cream Day, so to celebrate this momentous occasion, sit back, grab your spoon and dig in as you learn about the intriguing set of events that led to the creation of this magical mix and how to create your own creamy dish at home.

The history of the rich dish
Following the devastating stock market crash in 1929, spirits and bank accounts were low as people struggled to forge their way through the next several years. William Dreyer, co-founder of Dreyer's and Edy's brand ice creams, worked with Joseph Edy to develop a dish so delicious, people would be forced to forget the unfortunate incidents of the past. According to Nestle's website, Dreyer combined almonds, marshmallows and chocolate ice cream in an attempt to create the most flavorful and mood-boosting chilled dessert in history.

Traditionally, these are the only three ingredients for Rocky Road ice cream. However, Punchbowl reported that other nations frequently add additional toppings to the mix in order to create an even more diverse dish. For example, in the U.K., the dessert is served with cherries and raisins, while in Australia, it features jam.

Create your own ice cream at home
Seniors should be sure to jump on the opportunity to celebrate this occasion with style. This recipe offers a healthy, low-fat option for seniors - and serves as the ideal dessert to show off at the retirement community. All you need is an ice cream maker, stove and freezer.

Ingredients

• 1 14-oz. can nonfat sweetened condensed milk
• 1 1/2 tsp. unflavored gelatin
• 3 large egg yolks
• 3 cups low-fat milk
• 1 tbsp. water
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 3 oz. unsweetened chocolate chips
• 1 cup small marshmallows
• 1/2 cup chopped almonds

Directions
Start by combining the water and gelatin in the bottom of a bowl. Pour 1 1/2 cups milk, cocoa and 2 oz. chocolate chips into a saucepan, then heat the mixture until it's well blended. In a separate bowl, combine the eggs and condensed milk, gradually whisking in the hot milk mixture. Once they have been mixed, pour back into the saucepan for an additional 3-5 minutes, but be sure it does not boil.

Next, strain the ingredients through a sieve into another bowl, adding the gelatin and remaining milk. Once the ice cream has been thoroughly mixed, stir in the remaining chocolate chips, marshmallows and almonds. Refrigerate for two hours, then pour into your ice cream maker and freeze according to the equipment's directions.