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 foillined 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 heavybottomed 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 mediumhigh 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