English Toffee is a classic treat that’s perfect for any occasion, especially during the holidays. This delicious candy features buttery caramel, rich chocolate, and crunchy nuts, making it an irresistible dessert. Whether you’re gifting it to friends or enjoying it at home, this homemade English toffee recipe will surely impress everyone who tries it. Let’s dive into the world of this traditional English caramel delight!
Why You’ll Love This English Toffee
This English toffee recipe is a wonderful addition to your dessert repertoire. Here are a few reasons to love it:
- Simple ingredients that are easy to find.
- Perfect for gifting during the holiday season.
- A delightful combination of crunchy and creamy textures.
- Customizable with your favorite nuts, like pecans or almonds.
- Can be made in large batches for parties or events.
- It’s a traditional English toffee that evokes childhood memories.
This homemade English toffee recipe not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also offers a delightful cooking experience. Plus, with its vegetarian-friendly ingredients, everyone can enjoy this amazing treat!
Ingredients for English Toffee
Gather these items:
- 1 cup (130g) pecans
- 1 1/2 cups (340g) or 3 sticks unsalted butter
- 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons light corn syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 10 –12 ounces semisweet chocolate (chopped or about 2 cups chocolate chips)
How to Make English Toffee Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Place the pecans in a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Toast them without oil, stirring frequently, until they begin to brown lightly and emit a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and let cool completely before chopping coarsely.
- Step 2: Line a 9 x 13-inch baking pan with aluminum foil, ensuring it covers the bottom and sides completely. Sprinkle half of the chopped pecans evenly across the base of the pan. Reserve the remaining pecans for the topping.
- Step 3: In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the butter, sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pan, ensuring the tip is submerged in the mixture but does not touch the bottom.
- Step 4: Place the pan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the butter has melted. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture becomes golden brown.
- Step 5: Allow the temperature to reach between 295°F and 305°F (hard crack stage). This process typically takes 10 to 15 minutes.
- Step 6: Carefully pour the hot toffee mixture over the pecans in the prepared pan. Spread evenly with a heatproof spatula. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any trapped air bubbles.
- Step 7: Allow the toffee to cool for 2–3 minutes. Sprinkle the chopped chocolate evenly over the warm toffee. Let it sit for another 2–3 minutes until the chocolate begins to soften, then spread it smoothly with an offset spatula or the back of a spoon.
- Step 8: Sprinkle the remaining chopped pecans over the melted chocolate. Press lightly to ensure they adhere to the surface.
- Step 9: Let the toffee cool completely at room temperature for approximately 1 hour. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least another hour or overnight until firm.
- Step 10: Once the toffee is fully set, lift it from the pan using the foil. Peel the foil from the bottom and break the toffee into irregular pieces using your hands or a sharp knife.
- Step 11: Store the toffee in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 months, layering parchment paper between pieces to prevent sticking.
Pro Tips for the Perfect English Toffee
Keep these in mind:
- Use a candy thermometer for accurate temperature measurement.
- Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
- Don’t rush the cooking process; allow the mixture to reach the hard crack stage.
- Feel free to experiment with different nuts or chocolate types for a unique flavor.
Best Ways to Serve English Toffee
Here are some delightful serving ideas:
- Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
- Use as a topping for ice cream or yogurt to add crunch and sweetness.
- Package in decorative boxes for English toffee for gifts that friends and family will love.
How to Store and Reheat English Toffee
To store your homemade English toffee, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will keep it fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before indulging.
Frequently Asked Questions About English Toffee
What’s the secret to perfect English Toffee?
The secret to perfect English toffee lies in reaching the right temperature and using high-quality ingredients. Make sure to monitor the temperature closely and allow the mixture to reach the hard crack stage for that ideal crunch.
Can I make English Toffee ahead of time?
Yes, you can make English toffee ahead of time. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 months, making it an excellent choice for holiday prep or special occasions.
How do I avoid common mistakes with English Toffee?
To avoid common mistakes, ensure that you use a candy thermometer to check the temperature accurately. Also, stir the mixture continuously to prevent burning, and don’t skip the cooling time before adding the chocolate.
Variations of English Toffee You Can Try
Consider these delicious variations:
- Chocolate-covered English toffee: Dip pieces in melted chocolate for a richer flavor.
- English toffee with nuts: Experiment with different nuts, like almonds or walnuts, for varied textures.
- Butter toffee: For a creamier taste, replace half the butter with cream.
- Easy English toffee recipe: Use pre-chopped nuts and chocolate chips for a quicker version.
Enjoy making and sharing this delightful English toffee with friends and family!
For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes section!
If you’re interested in trying other delightful desserts, consider making blueberry blondies or creamy spinach mushroom shrimp!
For more information on candy making, you can visit the National Confectioners Association.
Print
English Toffee: 10 Steps to Perfect Homemade Delight
- Total Time: 90 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 2 pounds 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This classic English Toffee features buttery caramel topped with rich chocolate and toasted pecans. A crunchy, sweet treat perfect for gifting or enjoying at home during the holidays.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (130g) pecans
- 1 1/2 cups (340g) or 3 sticks unsalted butter
- 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons light corn syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 10 –12 ounces semisweet chocolate (chopped or about 2 cups chocolate chips)
Instructions
- Place the pecans in a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Toast them without oil, stirring frequently, until they begin to brown lightly and emit a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and let cool completely before chopping coarsely.
- Line a 9 x 13-inch baking pan with aluminum foil, ensuring it covers the bottom and sides completely. Sprinkle half of the chopped pecans evenly across the base of the pan. Reserve the remaining pecans for the topping.
- In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the butter, sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pan, ensuring the tip is submerged in the mixture but does not touch the bottom.
- Place the pan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the butter has melted. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture becomes golden brown.
- Allow the temperature to reach between 295°F and 305°F (hard crack stage). This process typically takes 10 to 15 minutes.
- Carefully pour the hot toffee mixture over the pecans in the prepared pan. Spread evenly with a heatproof spatula. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any trapped air bubbles.
- Allow the toffee to cool for 2–3 minutes. Sprinkle the chopped chocolate evenly over the warm toffee. Let it sit for another 2–3 minutes until the chocolate begins to soften, then spread it smoothly with an offset spatula or the back of a spoon.
- Sprinkle the remaining chopped pecans over the melted chocolate. Press lightly to ensure they adhere to the surface.
- Let the toffee cool completely at room temperature for approximately 1 hour. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least another hour or overnight until firm.
- Once the toffee is fully set, lift it from the pan using the foil. Peel the foil from the bottom and break the toffee into irregular pieces using your hands or a sharp knife.
- Store the toffee in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 months, layering parchment paper between pieces to prevent sticking.
Notes
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: British
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
