Decadent Toffee with Chocolate and Nut Topping Recipe

Introduction

Rich, buttery, and wonderfully crunchy, homemade toffee is a timeless treat that’s perfect for gifting or indulging yourself. This simple recipe combines caramelized butter and sugar with a luscious chocolate and nut topping. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can create a classic confection that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 cup semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips
• ½ cup chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, salt, and water over medium heat. Stir continuously until the butter melts and the mixture begins to boil.
2. Step 2: Attach a candy thermometer to the pan, making sure it doesn’t touch the bottom. Continue cooking the mixture, stirring occasionally, until it reaches 285°F (hard crack stage). This should take about 10-15 minutes.
3. Step 3: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract carefully. Immediately pour the hot toffee onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
4. Step 4: While the toffee is still warm, sprinkle the chocolate chips over the top. Allow them to sit for a few minutes until they soften, then use a spatula to spread the melted chocolate evenly over the toffee surface.
5. Step 5: Sprinkle the chopped nuts evenly over the melted chocolate. Press them gently to help them adhere.
6. Step 6: Let the toffee cool completely at room temperature until firm. Once set, break it into pieces and enjoy or store as desired.

Tips & Variations

• Use a heavy saucepan and a reliable candy thermometer to accurately reach the correct temperature for perfect toffee texture.
• Swap chocolate chips for white chocolate or dark chocolate according to your preference.
• Try different nuts like hazelnuts or pistachios for unique flavor variations.
• For a silkier finish, spread the chocolate when the toffee is slightly warm but not hot to prevent seizing.

Storage

Store the toffee in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Keep it away from heat and humidity to maintain its crunch. If the toffee softens, you can gently re-crisp it in a low oven (around 250°F) for a few minutes. Avoid refrigerating as it may cause moisture buildup.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

What if my toffee doesn’t harden properly?

If your toffee remains sticky or soft, it may not have reached the hard crack temperature. Return it to the heat and cook a little longer, watching the thermometer closely.

Can I skip the nuts or use other toppings?

Absolutely. Nuts add crunch and flavor, but you can omit them or try toppings like toasted coconut, crushed candies, or sea salt for a different twist.

Decadent Toffee with Chocolate and Nut Topping Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 90 reviews

This classic homemade toffee recipe delivers a perfect balance of buttery sweetness and crunchy nutty toppings. Made with simple ingredients like butter, sugar, and vanilla, this toffee is easy to prepare and topped with rich melted chocolate and crunchy nuts, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion.

• Author: Matteo
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes (including chilling time)
• Yield: Approximately 30 pieces 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Toffee Base

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons water

Topping

• 1 cup semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips
• ½ cup chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds

Instructions

1. Prepare the Toffee Base: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, salt, and water. Cook over medium heat while stirring continuously until the mixture melts and starts to bubble.
2. Cook to the Right Temperature: Continue cooking the mixture, stirring constantly, until it reaches the hard crack stage at about 300°F (150°C) on a candy thermometer. The mixture will thicken and turn a golden amber color.
3. Add Vanilla Extract: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract quickly and carefully.
4. Pour and Set: Immediately pour the hot toffee mixture onto a parchment-lined or silicone mat baking sheet, spreading it out evenly with a spatula to about ¼ inch thickness. Let it cool for a few minutes but while still warm, move to the next step.
5. Add Chocolate Topping: Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the warm toffee surface. Let the chocolate sit for a few minutes until it softens, then spread it evenly over the toffee with a spatula.
6. Add Nut Topping: While the chocolate is still soft, sprinkle the chopped nuts evenly on top, pressing lightly to adhere.
7. Chill and Break: Allow the toffee to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour until completely set. Once set, break the toffee into pieces and store in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

Notes

• Use a candy thermometer to ensure the toffee reaches the perfect hard crack stage for the ideal texture.
• For a different flavor, try substituting the vanilla extract with almond or orange extract.
• Be cautious when working with hot sugar mixtures to avoid burns.
• Store toffee in a cool, dry place for up to two weeks.
• To prevent nuts from burning, add them only after the chocolate has softened, not during heating.

Keywords: toffee, homemade toffee, chocolate nut toffee, buttery candy, easy toffee recipe