Classic Christmas Toffee Recipe
Introduction
Classic Christmas Toffee is a delightful holiday treat that combines rich butter, sweet sugar, smooth chocolate, and crunchy nuts. It’s simple to make and perfect for sharing during the festive season.
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup chocolate (chopped or chips)
- 1 cup nuts (such as almonds or pecans, chopped)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the sugar and stir constantly until the mixture reaches a deep golden brown color and a toffee consistency.
- Step 2: Pour the hot toffee onto a lined baking sheet, spreading it evenly. Immediately sprinkle the chocolate evenly over the surface. Let it sit for a few minutes to melt, then spread the chocolate smoothly over the toffee. Finally, sprinkle the chopped nuts on top and gently press them into the chocolate. Allow the toffee to cool completely before breaking into pieces.
Tips & Variations
- Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature and ensure your toffee reaches about 300°F (150°C) for the perfect crunch.
- Try using dark chocolate for a richer flavor or add a pinch of sea salt over the nuts for a sweet and salty twist.
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 for a few minutes.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use different types of nuts?
Yes, feel free to use walnuts, hazelnuts, or even pistachios depending on your preference. Toasting the nuts beforehand enhances their flavor.
What if my toffee doesn’t harden properly?
This usually means the toffee didn’t reach the correct temperature. Make sure to cook it until it’s a deep amber color and use a candy thermometer for accuracy. If it remains soft, you can try reheating it to the proper temperature carefully.
PrintClassic Christmas Toffee Recipe
Classic Christmas Toffee is a beloved holiday treat featuring a rich, buttery base cooked to a perfect caramel stage, topped with melted chocolate and crunchy nuts for a delightful combination of flavors and textures. This simple yet elegant dessert is perfect for festive gatherings and gift-giving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 40 pieces 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Toffee Base
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
Topping
- 1 cup (170g) semisweet or dark chocolate chips
- 1 cup (120g) chopped nuts (such as almonds or pecans)
Instructions
- Prepare the Toffee Base: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the granulated sugar and stir constantly to combine.
- Cook to Caramel Stage: Continue stirring the butter and sugar mixture over medium heat until it reaches 300°F (hard crack stage) on a candy thermometer. The mixture should turn a deep golden brown color. Be careful to stir continuously to prevent burning.
- Pour Mixture: Immediately pour the hot toffee mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or silicon mat, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Add Chocolate Topping: While the toffee is still hot, sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the surface. Let them sit for a few minutes until melted, then spread the melted chocolate evenly over the toffee using a spatula.
- Sprinkle Nuts: Immediately sprinkle the chopped nuts evenly over the melted chocolate layer, pressing lightly to ensure they stick.
- Cool and Set: Allow the toffee to cool at room temperature until fully set, about 1 to 2 hours. For faster setting, you can refrigerate it for about 30 minutes.
- Break and Serve: Once firm, break the toffee into small pieces. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Notes
- Use a candy thermometer for accuracy when cooking the toffee to avoid burning.
- Substitute nuts with your preference or omit for a nut-free version.
- Can be made ahead and stored for up to two weeks.
- Ensure the pan is heavy-bottomed to distribute heat evenly during cooking.
Keywords: christmas toffee, holiday dessert, classic toffee recipe, buttery toffee, chocolate nuts toffee
