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English Butter Toffee recipe

English Butter Toffee

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  • Author: Lisa
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes (includes chill time)
  • Yield: 16 pieces (approx.) 1x
  • Category: Dessert

Description

English Butter Toffee is a buttery, crunchy candy topped with chocolate and nuts. This easy homemade version is perfect for gifts and holiday treats!


Ingredients

Scale

1 cup unsalted butter plus 1 tbsp for greasing

1 cup granulated sugar

¼ tsp table salt

1 tsp vanilla extract

½ tsp butterscotch extract

¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

½ cup chopped toasted nuts (pecans, almonds, or walnuts)

⅛ tsp table salt or a pinch (for topping)


Instructions

  • Line an 8″ or 9″ baking pan with foil, allowing a bit to hang over two sides for easy removal later.
  • Pre​-heat your oven to 350​°F (≈175​°C). Spread the chopped nuts on a baking sheet or foil​lined plate and toast in the oven until you begin to smell them (about 5 minutes). Remove and set aside. Turn off the oven.
  • In a heavy​bottomed large saucepan, combine the 1 cup butter, the sugar and the first amount of salt (¼ tsp). Set over medium-low heat and stir gently until the butter fully melts.
  • Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pan (if you have one). Increase heat to medium​high and cook the mixture, stirring as needed, until it reaches a dark amber colour (approximately 285​°F) — this takes roughly 20–30 minutes.
    Important: The temperature will quickly increase during the last few degrees — keep a close eye.
  • Remove the pan from the heat. Quickly stir in the vanilla extract and the butterscotch extract.
  • Pour the hot toffee mixture into the prepared baking pan. Allow the mixture to rest for about 12 minutes, or until the top begins to set. A good test: gently poke the surface with the tip of a paring knife — the centre will take a little longer to firm.
  • When the surface has set, sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly across the top. Let sit for about 5 minutes until the chips begin to soften and melt. Use a spatula to spread the melted chocolate to form an even layer.
  • Using your fingers, evenly sprinkle the toasted nuts over the melted chocolate, then sprinkle the pinch of salt on top.
  • Chill the pan in the refrigerator for about 1 hour or until firm.
  • Remove from the fridge, use the foil overhang to lift the toffee out of the pan, and break into pieces.

Notes

For best results, use a candy thermometer and work in a dry kitchen. You can swap chocolate or nuts based on preference. Store at room temp or freeze for later.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 piece
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 15 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Protein: 1.5 g