Delicious Homemade English Toffee with Almonds

English toffee is a beloved classic candy with a rich, buttery base and a satisfying crunch. Topped with smooth chocolate and almonds, it’s a delightful treat that’s perfect for special occasions, gifting, or simply indulging at home. Here’s how to make this sweet treat step-by-step!


Introduction

Making homemade English toffee might seem intimidating, but it’s surprisingly easy with just a few simple ingredients. This recipe combines the luxurious caramel flavor of toffee with the creaminess of melted chocolate and the nutty crunch of almonds. Perfect for holiday gifts, parties, or as an anytime treat, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.


Ingredients

Toffee Base:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Toppings:

  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup chopped almonds (plus extra for topping)

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Sheet

  1. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
  2. Lightly grease it with cooking spray or a thin layer of butter to prevent sticking.
  3. Set it aside for later.

Step 2: Cook the Toffee

  1. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine butter, sugar, water, and salt.
  2. Heat over medium heat, stirring continuously with a heat-resistant spatula or wooden spoon to ensure the mixture doesn’t burn.
  3. As the mixture boils, it will gradually change color. Cook it until it reaches a golden-brown hue or an internal temperature of 300°F (hard crack stage) on a candy thermometer. This process typically takes about 10-15 minutes.

Step 3: Add Vanilla

  1. Once the desired color and temperature are achieved, remove the saucepan from heat.
  2. Stir in the vanilla extract. Be careful as the mixture may bubble up slightly.

Step 4: Spread the Toffee

  1. Pour the hot toffee immediately onto the prepared baking sheet.
  2. Use a spatula to spread it out into an even layer, working quickly before it hardens.

Step 5: Add Chocolate

  1. While the toffee is still hot, sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly across its surface.
  2. Allow the chocolate to sit for about 1-2 minutes to melt from the residual heat.
  3. Once softened, use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the melted chocolate into an even layer over the toffee.

Step 6: Sprinkle Almonds

  1. Scatter the chopped almonds generously over the melted chocolate.
  2. Gently press the almonds into the chocolate to ensure they stick.

Step 7: Cool and Break

  1. Let the toffee cool completely at room temperature. This can take about 1 hour, or speed up the process by placing it in the refrigerator.
  2. Once fully hardened, break the toffee into irregular bite-sized pieces using your hands or a knife.

Cooking Notes

  • Candy Thermometer: Using a thermometer ensures the toffee reaches the correct consistency and prevents overcooking.
  • Stirring: Keep stirring while cooking to prevent crystallization or uneven cooking.
  • Storage: Store toffee in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer freshness.

Serving Suggestions

  1. Serve English toffee as a dessert alongside tea or coffee for an afternoon pick-me-up.
  2. Package pieces in decorative tins or jars for an elegant homemade gift.
  3. Add toffee chunks to a charcuterie board for a sweet contrast to savory items.

Tips

  1. Use Quality Butter: The rich flavor of butter is key to this recipe; use unsalted, high-quality butter for the best results.
  2. Experiment with Nuts: Swap almonds for pecans, walnuts, or hazelnuts to create new flavor variations.
  3. Double the Recipe: This toffee is addictive! Make extra to share or freeze for later.
  4. Drizzle with White Chocolate: For a decorative touch, drizzle melted white chocolate over the cooled toffee before breaking it into pieces.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes


Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 200
  • Protein: 2g
  • Sodium: 50mg

Conclusion

Homemade English toffee with almonds is a delightful combination of rich, buttery flavor and irresistible texture. It’s a versatile treat that’s simple to make yet luxurious enough to impress. Whether you enjoy it as a personal indulgence or share it as a gift, this recipe is bound to spread smiles.

Print
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Delicious Homemade English Toffee with Almonds


  • Author: Imili Johnson
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

Scale
  • Toffee Base:

    • 1 cup unsalted butter
    • 1 cup granulated sugar
    • 1/4 cup water
    • 1/4 teaspoon salt
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

    Toppings:

    • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
    • 1/2 cup chopped almonds (plus extra for topping)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Sheet

  1. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
  2. Lightly grease it with cooking spray or a thin layer of butter to prevent sticking.
  3. Set it aside for later.

Step 2: Cook the Toffee

  1. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine butter, sugar, water, and salt.
  2. Heat over medium heat, stirring continuously with a heat-resistant spatula or wooden spoon to ensure the mixture doesn’t burn.
  3. As the mixture boils, it will gradually change color. Cook it until it reaches a golden-brown hue or an internal temperature of 300°F (hard crack stage) on a candy thermometer. This process typically takes about 10-15 minutes.

Step 3: Add Vanilla

  1. Once the desired color and temperature are achieved, remove the saucepan from heat.
  2. Stir in the vanilla extract. Be careful as the mixture may bubble up slightly.

Step 4: Spread the Toffee

  1. Pour the hot toffee immediately onto the prepared baking sheet.
  2. Use a spatula to spread it out into an even layer, working quickly before it hardens.

Step 5: Add Chocolate

  1. While the toffee is still hot, sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly across its surface.
  2. Allow the chocolate to sit for about 1-2 minutes to melt from the residual heat.
  3. Once softened, use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the melted chocolate into an even layer over the toffee.

Step 6: Sprinkle Almonds

  1. Scatter the chopped almonds generously over the melted chocolate.
  2. Gently press the almonds into the chocolate to ensure they stick.

Step 7: Cool and Break

  1. Let the toffee cool completely at room temperature. This can take about 1 hour, or speed up the process by placing it in the refrigerator.
  2. Once fully hardened, break the toffee into irregular bite-sized pieces using your hands or a knife.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes

Nutrition

  • Calories: 200
  • Sodium: 50mg
  • Protein: 2g