There's something about old-fashioned toffee that takes you back to a simpler time, where every bite wraps you in the warmth of home. Perhaps that's why I cherish this Best Toffee Ever recipe. It's one that's been in my family for years, passed down through generations and always conjured up during family gatherings, especially during the holidays or for special celebrations. Toffee is a classic treat, and making it from scratch is an act of love that's all about the joy of sharing. Whether you're looking to create new traditions or simply want to spoil your loved ones with a homemade delight, this toffee is sure to make hearts a little lighter and smiles a little wider.
This heavenly toffee can stand on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a cup of hot coffee or tea, providing a perfect balance to the rich sweetness. For those with a truly decadent palate, serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat. During the holidays, pieces of this toffee nestled in a festive tin make delightful gifts that show the personal touch of your kitchen.
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Best Toffee Ever
Servings: 10-12 servings, depending on the size of pieces
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), plus extra for greasing the pan
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon light corn syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup roasted almonds, chopped (or nut of choice)
- Optional: sea salt for sprinkling
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon light corn syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup roasted almonds, chopped (or nut of choice)
- Optional: sea salt for sprinkling
Directions:
1. Grease a sheet pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a heavy bottomed saucepan over medium heat, combine butter, sugar, water, corn syrup, and salt. Using a wooden spoon, continuously stir the mixture.
3. Cook the mixture until it reaches 300℉ (150℃) on a candy thermometer, the 'hard crack' stage. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes. Remove from heat immediately to avoid burning.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract quickly.
5. Carefully pour the hot mixture onto the prepared pan and spread it into an even layer.
6. Let it cool for a few minutes, then sprinkle chocolate chips evenly over the toffee while it's still hot. After a minute or so, when they've softened, spread the melted chocolate over the toffee with a spatula.
7. Sprinkle the chopped almonds over the chocolate. If desired, add a sprinkle of sea salt for a salty-sweet flavor profile.
8. Allow the toffee to cool completely. Once it's set, break it into pieces.
9. Store the toffee in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
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Variations & Tips:
- For the chocolate lovers, consider using dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet for an intense cocoa flavor.
- If there's a nut allergy in the family, omit the almonds and sprinkle toffee with a pinch of cinnamon or drizzle with white chocolate for a nut-free version.
- For a smoother toffee texture, be sure the sugar is fully dissolved before the mixture starts to boil. Keep a close eye on the temperature, as candy-making can be a bit finicky.
- A silicone baking mat can also be used instead of greased parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Making candy is a great opportunity to involve older kids in the kitchen under close supervision. They can learn about the different stages of sugar and the importance of precise measurements and timing.
- Enjoy this labor of love, and don't forget to share a piece or two with a neighbor or friend. After all, it's these small gestures that create fond memories and sweeten our days.
- If there's a nut allergy in the family, omit the almonds and sprinkle toffee with a pinch of cinnamon or drizzle with white chocolate for a nut-free version.
- For a smoother toffee texture, be sure the sugar is fully dissolved before the mixture starts to boil. Keep a close eye on the temperature, as candy-making can be a bit finicky.
- A silicone baking mat can also be used instead of greased parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Making candy is a great opportunity to involve older kids in the kitchen under close supervision. They can learn about the different stages of sugar and the importance of precise measurements and timing.
- Enjoy this labor of love, and don't forget to share a piece or two with a neighbor or friend. After all, it's these small gestures that create fond memories and sweeten our days.