Classic English Toffee Recipe
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Classic English Toffee Recipe
English toffee is a buttery, crunchy treat with a sweet caramelized flavor, often topped with chocolate and nuts. This recipe is perfect for gifting or enjoying as a homemade dessert.
Ingredients (Makes about 1 pound):
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (60ml) water
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup (175g) semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup (75g) chopped almonds, pecans, or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Baking Tray:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Set aside.
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Melt the Butter:
- In a medium, heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sugar, water, and salt, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula.
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Cook the Toffee:
- Continue stirring as the mixture boils. It will start to thicken and turn a golden amber color. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature; it should reach 300°F (149°C), known as the "hard crack stage." This takes about 10-15 minutes.
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Add Vanilla:
- Once the toffee reaches the right temperature, remove it from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Be cautious as it may bubble.
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Pour and Spread:
- Quickly pour the hot toffee onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread it evenly with a spatula.
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Add Chocolate:
- While the toffee is still hot, sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the surface. Let them sit for a minute to melt, then use a spatula to spread the melted chocolate into a smooth layer.
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Top with Nuts:
- Sprinkle the chopped nuts over the chocolate layer, pressing lightly to adhere. Skip this step if you prefer nut-free toffee.
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Cool and Break:
- Allow the toffee to cool completely at room temperature or in the refrigerator until it sets. Once hardened, break it into pieces with your hands or a knife.
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Store:
- Store the toffee in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Tips and Variations:
- Temperature Accuracy: A candy thermometer is essential to ensure the toffee reaches the correct stage.
- Nut-Free Option: Simply skip the nuts, or sprinkle sea salt for a sweet-and-salty variation.
- Dark Chocolate Twist: Substitute semi-sweet chocolate with dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Gift Idea: Wrap pieces of toffee in wax paper or place them in decorative tins for a festive treat.
Would you like alternative flavor suggestions or tips for troubleshooting toffee-making?
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