Description
This classic homemade toffee recipe delivers a rich, buttery treat with a perfect crunchy texture, coated with smooth semi-sweet chocolate and sprinkled with chopped nuts. Perfect for gifting or enjoying as a sweet snack, this toffee is made using simple ingredients and a straightforward stovetop method.
Ingredients
Scale
Toffee Base
- 1 cup (226 grams) unsalted butter
- 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) water
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Topping
- 1 cup (170 grams) semi-sweet chocolate
- 1/2 cup (75 grams) chopped nuts (almonds or pecans)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Gather and measure all ingredients carefully to ensure accurate cooking and perfect texture for your toffee.
- Prepare Equipment: Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and set aside your medium saucepan, spatula, and candy thermometer.
- Melt and Combine: In the saucepan over medium heat, combine unsalted butter, granulated sugar, water, and a pinch of salt. Stir gently until the butter melts and the mixture becomes smooth.
- Cook to Temperature: Raise heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil. Avoid stirring directly; instead, use a wet pastry brush to clean sugar crystals off the saucepan sides. Continue cooking until the candy thermometer reads 300°F (150°C), which is the hard crack stage.
- Add Flavor and Pour: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Immediately pour the hot mixture into the lined baking pan, spreading evenly. Let it rest for about 5 minutes to start cooling.
- Set and Store: Allow the toffee to fully cool and set at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours. Once hardened, break into pieces and store in an airtight container for optimal freshness.
Notes
- Use a candy thermometer to accurately monitor the temperature to avoid undercooking or burning the toffee.
- Be cautious when cooking sugar; it becomes extremely hot and can cause burns.
- Let the toffee cool completely before breaking to get clean, crisp pieces.
- Optional: You can melt the semi-sweet chocolate and spread it over the top of the toffee and sprinkle with chopped nuts for added flavor and texture.
- Store toffee in a cool, dry place to prevent melting or stickiness.
