Classic Christmas Toffee Recipe
Introduction
Classic Christmas Toffee is a beloved holiday treat that combines rich butter, sweet sugar, smooth chocolate, and crunchy nuts. This simple yet indulgent candy is perfect for gifting or enjoying by the fireside during the festive season.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as almonds or pecans)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sugar and stir continuously as the mixture cooks until it reaches a deep amber color and a temperature of about 290°F (hard crack stage).
- Step 2: Immediately pour the hot toffee onto a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet, spreading it evenly. While still warm, sprinkle the chocolate evenly over the surface. Let it sit for a few minutes until the chocolate softens, then spread it into an even layer.
- Step 3: Sprinkle the chopped nuts on top of the melted chocolate, gently pressing them in. Allow the toffee to cool completely at room temperature until firm, then break into pieces to serve.
Tips & Variations
- For a smoother toffee, use a candy thermometer to monitor the cooking temperature precisely.
- Swap nuts for crushed peppermint candies to add a festive twist.
- Use dark or milk chocolate depending on your preference for sweetness.
- Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to make removal easier.
Storage
Store the toffee in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Keep it away from humidity to prevent it from becoming sticky. If desired, warm slightly before serving to soften the chocolate layer.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
What kind of nuts work best for toffee?
Almonds, pecans, and walnuts are popular choices due to their crunch and flavor, but you can use any nuts you prefer or omit them altogether.
Can I make toffee without a candy thermometer?
While a candy thermometer ensures accuracy, you can test doneness by dropping a small amount of the hot mixture into cold water. If it hardens and cracks easily, the toffee is ready.
PrintClassic Christmas Toffee Recipe
Classic Christmas Toffee is a rich and buttery confection made by cooking sugar and butter to a perfect golden caramel, then topping it with melted chocolate and crunchy nuts. This festive treat combines a crisp, chewy texture with the smoothness of chocolate and the nuttiness of almonds or walnuts, making it an irresistible holiday favorite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 36 pieces 1x
- Category: Candy
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Toffee Base
- 1 cup (227 grams) unsalted butter
- 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
Topping
- 1 cup (170 grams) semisweet or milk chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup (60 grams) chopped nuts (such as almonds or walnuts)
Instructions
- Prepare a Baking Sheet: Line a 9×9 inch baking pan or rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and make removal easy.
- Cook Butter and Sugar: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine 1 cup of unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches the hard crack stage (approximately 300°F or 149°C on a candy thermometer). This usually takes 10-15 minutes. The toffee should be golden brown and very hot.
- Pour Toffee: Immediately pour the hot toffee mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it out evenly with a spatula to an even thickness.
- Add Chocolate: While the toffee is still hot, sprinkle 1 cup of chocolate chips evenly over the surface. Let them sit for a few minutes to melt, then use a spatula to spread the melted chocolate evenly over the top.
- Sprinkle Nuts: Immediately sprinkle 1/2 cup of chopped nuts over the melted chocolate, gently pressing them in to adhere.
- Cool and Set: Allow the toffee to cool completely at room temperature or in the refrigerator until the chocolate and toffee are firm, about 1-2 hours.
- Break Into Pieces: Once set, break the toffee into desired sized pieces and store in an airtight container to maintain crispness.
Notes
- Use a candy thermometer for accuracy to ensure the toffee reaches the hard crack stage.
- Nuts can be substituted with pecans or hazelnuts according to preference.
- Store toffee in a cool, dry place to prevent melting and sticking.
- For a festive touch, add sea salt flakes on top of the nuts before the toffee sets.
Keywords: Christmas toffee, holiday candy, butter toffee, homemade toffee, festive sweets
