Come sit on the porch with me, as we talk about one of those sweet treasures that evokes a fond sense of nostalgia – melt-in-your-mouth toffee.
This recipe has been lovingly passed down in our family, a Midwest delight that combines simple ingredients into something transcendent.
It brings back memories of family gatherings where the kitchen was filled with warmth, laughter, and the rich scent of caramelizing sugar, providing a sweet finishing touch to bustling dinners.
This toffee is not only a testament to tradition but a delight to all who taste it, evoking the charm of rural life and the simple pleasures.
Perfect for the holidays or a quaint afternoon treat, this fudgy, rich, and dense concoction is bound to become a cherished part of your family’s dessert repertoire.
This toffee is delightful on its own, but it pairs well with a steaming cup of coffee or a robust black tea.
For a bit of contrast, you might enjoy it alongside a serving of fresh fruit, such as crisp apple slices or juicy pears, which help to cut through the richness.
If you’re feeling indulgent, a dollop of freshly whipped cream or even a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream can elevate this treat to new heights.
It also makes a lovely addition to a dessert tray at gatherings, nestled alongside cookies and homemade candies.
Georgia’s Melt-In-Your-Mouth Toffee
Servings: 16 pieces
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup packed light brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup water
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans, optional
Directions
1. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat, then set aside.
2. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, salt, and water.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture reaches 300°F (hard crack stage) on a candy thermometer.
4. Remove the pan from heat and immediately stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Pour the hot toffee mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it evenly with a heat-resistant spatula.
6. Sprinkle the chocolate chips over the hot toffee, letting them sit for a minute until melted.
7. Once the chocolate has melted, spread it evenly over the toffee.
8. If desired, sprinkle chopped nuts over the melted chocolate.
9. Allow the toffee to cool and set for about 2 hours or until the chocolate has hardened.
10. Break into pieces and enjoy!
Variations & Tips
Nut-Free Option: Simply omit the walnuts or pecans for an allergy-friendly version, or replace them with toasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a similar crunch.
Salted Toffee Twist: Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the melted chocolate for a sophisticated sweet-and-salty contrast.
Mocha Flavor: Stir in 1 teaspoon of instant espresso powder with the chocolate chips for a rich mocha variation that pairs beautifully with coffee.
Chocolate Swaps: Try using dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or white chocolate chips for a different flavor profile—or even a mix for a marbled effect.
Festive Flair: Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top while the chocolate is still warm for a holiday-ready version.
Storage Tip: Store the toffee in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. To prevent sticking, layer pieces with wax or parchment paper.
Gift-Worthy Idea: Package pieces in cellophane bags or tins tied with ribbon for a heartfelt homemade gift.
Nutritional Information (per piece)
Calories: 210
Total Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 25mg
Sodium: 55mg
Total Carbohydrates: 22g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 20g
Protein: 1g
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on the exact ingredients and portion sizes used.