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Classic Christmas Toffee Recipe

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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