Description
Indulge in homemade toffee featuring a rich buttery base, topped with smooth chocolate and crunchy nuts. This festive treat is perfect for holiday gatherings or as a delightful gift for friends and family.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)
- 1/2 cup crushed candy canes (optional, for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (for sprinkling on top)
Instructions
- Start by gathering all your ingredients and tools. You’ll need a heavy-bottomed saucepan, a wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula, a candy thermometer, and a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- In the saucepan, combine the butter, granulated sugar, water, and salt. Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir the mixture gently until the butter has melted and the sugar has dissolved. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
- Once the mixture is bubbling, attach the candy thermometer to the side of the saucepan. Make sure the tip of the thermometer is submerged in the mixture but not touching the bottom of the pan.
- Continue to cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until it reaches a temperature of 300°F (hard crack stage). This process usually takes about 10-15 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning, and adjust the heat as necessary.
- When the toffee reaches 300°F, remove it from the heat immediately. Stir in the vanilla extract carefully, as it may bubble up. Be cautious!
- Quickly pour the hot toffee mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, but work quickly as the toffee will start to set.
- Allow the toffee to cool at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. You want it to be firm but not completely hardened before adding the chocolate.
- While the toffee is cooling, place the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave the chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until it’s completely melted and smooth. This usually takes about 1-2 minutes total.
- Once the chocolate is melted, pour it over the cooled toffee. Use a spatula to spread the chocolate evenly across the surface of the toffee.
- Sprinkle the chopped nuts evenly over the melted chocolate. If you’re using crushed candy canes, sprinkle them on top as well for a festive touch.
- Finally, sprinkle a little sea salt over the top to enhance the flavors. This step is optional but highly recommended!
- Let the toffee set at room temperature for about 1-2 hours, or until the chocolate is completely hardened. If you’re in a hurry, you can place it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to speed up the process.
- Once the chocolate is set, use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter to break the toffee into pieces. You can make them as big or as small as you like!
- Store the toffee treats in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay fresh for about 2 weeks, but I doubt they’ll last that long!
- These classic Christmas toffee treats make for a delightful gift. You can package them in festive tins or boxes to share with friends and family during the holiday season.
- Enjoy your homemade toffee treats with a cup of hot cocoa or coffee. They’re perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in!
Notes
- Make sure to use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent the toffee from burning.
- Keep a close eye on the temperature as it approaches 300°F. It can go from perfect to burnt very quickly!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes