Homemade English Toffee

Instructions

1. Prepare Your Pan

  1. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  2. Sprinkle the chopped nuts evenly on the pan (optional, you can also sprinkle them later).

2. Make the Toffee

  1. In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine butter, sugar, water, and salt.
  2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves.
  3. Continue cooking without stirring too much once it starts boiling, until the mixture reaches 300°F (149°C) on a candy thermometer (hard crack stage).
    • If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small amount in cold water; it should harden and crack easily.

3. Add Vanilla

  • Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract carefully (the mixture may bubble).

4. Pour and Spread

  1. Quickly pour the hot toffee into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
  2. Sprinkle the chopped chocolate over the hot toffee immediately. Let it sit for 1–2 minutes to melt.

5. Spread Chocolate & Add Nuts

  1. Use a spatula to spread the melted chocolate evenly over the toffee.
  2. Sprinkle chopped nuts over the top while the chocolate is still soft.

6. Cool and Break

  1. Let the toffee cool completely at room temperature (or in the fridge for faster setting).
  2. Once firm, break into pieces and store in an airtight container.

Tips:

  • Use a heavy-bottomed pan to prevent burning.
  • Stir gently once the mixture starts boiling; vigorous stirring can cause sugar crystals.
  • For extra flavor, you can sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of the chocolate before it sets.

If you want, I can also give a microwave version that’s faster and easier, perfect for small batches without a candy thermometer.

Do you want me to share that microwave version too?

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