Classic Christmas Toffee Recipe

Introduction

Classic Christmas Toffee is a timeless holiday treat combining buttery caramel, crunchy nuts, and rich chocolate. This easy-to-make confection is perfect for gifting or enjoying with family during festive gatherings.

Ingredients

• 1 cup chopped pecans or almonds
• 1 cup granulated sugar (200 grams)
• 1 cup butter (226 grams)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup water (60 ml)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• Chocolate chips (amount as desired for topping)
• Additional chopped pecans for garnish
• Flaked sea salt (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare the baking dish by lining a 9×9 inch pan with parchment paper. Spread 1 cup of chopped pecans evenly on the bottom to form the nutty base for the toffee.
2. Step 2: In a pot over medium heat, combine butter, sugar, water, and salt. Stir frequently until the mixture melts and begins to bubble.
3. Step 3: Attach a candy thermometer and cook the mixture, stirring occasionally, until it reaches 300°F (hard crack stage). Remove from heat and stir in vanilla thoroughly.
4. Step 4: Pour the hot caramel over the pecans in the baking dish, spreading evenly. Let cool for 2 minutes, then sprinkle chocolate chips over the caramel. Cover to trap heat and melt the chocolate.
5. Step 5: After about 4 minutes, uncover and gently swirl the melted chocolate with a knife or spatula. Sprinkle additional chopped pecans and, if desired, flaked sea salt on top. Let cool completely for about 4 hours or refrigerate to speed up setting.
6. Step 6: Once set, lift the toffee out using the parchment paper. Cut into pieces or break apart by hand. Serve and enjoy your homemade toffee.

Tips & Variations

• Use almonds instead of pecans if preferred or a mix of both for extra crunch.
• For a richer flavor, try using salted butter and omit the added salt.
• If you don’t have a candy thermometer, test for the hard crack stage by dropping a small amount of caramel into cold water—if it hardens and cracks, it’s ready.
• Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or cayenne pepper to the caramel for a spicy twist.

Storage

Store the toffee in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. To keep it fresh longer, refrigerate. Before serving, let refrigerated toffee come to room temperature for the best texture. Avoid storing in humid environments to prevent stickiness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a microwave to melt the caramel?

Melting caramel on the stove with constant monitoring is recommended to achieve the correct temperature and texture. Using a microwave may cause uneven heating or burning.

What can I substitute for chocolate chips?

You can use chopped chocolate bars or candy melts as a topping. White chocolate or dark chocolate both work well and offer different flavor profiles.

Classic Christmas Toffee Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 79 reviews

Classic Christmas Toffee is a rich, buttery confection featuring a crunchy pecan base topped with golden caramel and melted chocolate. This easy-to-make treat combines the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and nutty flavors, making it a festive favorite for the holiday season. Finished with chopped pecans and optional flaked sea salt, it offers delightful texture and a visually appealing swirl of chocolate.

• Author: Naya
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 4 hours 35 minutes
• Yield: About 36 pieces 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Base and Toppings

• 1 cup chopped pecans or almonds
• Chocolate chips (about 1 to 1 1/2 cups)
• Additional chopped pecans for garnish (about 1/4 cup)
• Flaked sea salt (optional, about 1/2 teaspoon)

Caramel Mixture

• 1 cup granulated sugar (200 grams)
• 1 cup butter (226 grams), cut into pieces
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup water (60 ml)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Prepare the Baking Dish and Pecans: Line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Spread 1 cup of chopped pecans evenly at the bottom to form the toffee’s nutty base.
2. Make the Caramel Mixture: In a medium pot, combine butter, granulated sugar, water, and salt. Set over medium heat and stir frequently until the mixture melts and begins bubbling. Attach a candy thermometer to monitor temperature.
3. Cook the Caramel: Continue heating and occasionally stirring until the mixture reaches the hard crack stage at 300°F (149°C). Remove from heat promptly and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla for flavor enhancement.
4. Assemble the Toffee: Pour the hot caramel evenly over the pecans in the dish. Let it cool for 2 minutes, then sprinkle chocolate chips generously over the warm caramel. Cover the dish with foil or a baking sheet to trap heat and help the chocolate melt.
5. Finish and Chill the Toffee: After about 4 minutes, uncover and swirl the melted chocolate with a knife or spatula to create an attractive pattern. Sprinkle chopped pecans and optional flaked sea salt on top. Allow the toffee to cool completely at room temperature for 4 hours or refrigerate to speed solidification.
6. Cut and Serve the Toffee: Once fully set, lift the toffee out using the parchment paper. Cut into desired-sized pieces or break apart manually. Serve as a festive homemade treat and enjoy!

Notes

• Use a reliable candy thermometer to ensure reaching the correct temperature (300°F) for proper toffee texture.
• If you prefer a different nut, almonds work well as a substitute for pecans.
• Ensure the caramel is poured immediately after reaching temperature to prevent premature hardening.
• Store toffee in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks or refrigerated for longer freshness.
• Optional flaked sea salt adds a nice contrast to the sweetness but can be omitted for a pure sweet flavor.

Keywords: Christmas toffee, holiday candy, homemade toffee, caramel toffee, pecan toffee, festive dessert