Caramel Toffee Recipe

Caramel toffee recipe, with its rich, buttery flavor and soft, chewy texture, is a beloved treat enjoyed worldwide. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday, a gift, or simply to satisfy a craving, caramel toffee is a fantastic and surprisingly simple recipe that’s sure to impress. This guide will take you through the steps, history, and techniques needed to make delicious caramel toffee at home.

Brief History:

Caramel toffee originated in the early 19th century, especially in Britain, where toffee became popular as a result of affordable sugar availability. With its simple ingredients, toffee quickly became a household favorite, especially during festive seasons. The modern-day caramel toffee is a variation that combines the rich, smooth notes of caramel with the satisfying chewiness of toffee, giving it a delightful balance of flavor and texture.

Caramel Toffee Recipe

Pinklady

Caramel toffee originated in the early 19th century, especially in Britain, where toffee became popular as a result of affordable sugar availability. With its simple ingredients, toffee quickly became a household favorite, especially during festive seasons.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Course Snack

Cuisine British

Servings 16 Pieces

Calories 95 kcal

Equipment

• Heavy-bottomed saucepan
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Candy thermometer
• Baking dish (8x8 inches)
• Parchment paper
• Sharp knife for cutting

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 1/2 cup (120ml) light corn syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

See also  Oatmeal Cookie Recipe

Instructions

 

• Prepare the Baking Dish

  Line your 8x8 baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring it covers the bottom and sides. This will prevent the toffee from sticking, making it easy to remove once it’s set.
• Combine Ingredients

  In the heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the butter, sugar, heavy cream, and corn syrup over medium heat. Stir gently until the butter is melted and the sugar is fully dissolved. This process should take about 5 minutes.
• Bring to a Boil

  Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil. Continue stirring gently to prevent the mixture from sticking to the pan. Attach your candy thermometer to the pan, ensuring it’s submerged in the liquid but not touching the bottom.
• Heat to 245°F (118°C)

  Allow the mixture to cook until it reaches 245°F (118°C), which is the "firm ball stage." This temperature gives toffee its chewy texture. This process takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Be patient and avoid rushing by increasing the heat, as it can lead to uneven cooking or burning.
• Add Vanilla and Salt

  Once the desired temperature is reached, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt. Be cautious, as the mixture may bubble up slightly when the vanilla is added.
• Pour and Set

  Pour the hot caramel toffee mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Allow the mixture to cool and set at room temperature for about 1 hour.
• Cut and Serve

  Once the toffee has cooled and set, lift it out of the dish using the parchment paper. Cut it into squares or rectangles with a sharp knife. For a classic look, you can wrap each piece in wax paper.

Video

Keyword Caramel Toffee Recipe

Similar Recipes:

– Salted Caramel Fudge: A softer, melt-in-your-mouth treat with a hint of salt.
– Butterscotch Toffee: Slightly different in flavor, with brown sugar giving it a deeper taste.
– Peanut Brittle: A crunchy treat with peanuts, great for those who prefer a firmer texture.
– English Toffee: A classic British version with a harder consistency and often topped with chocolate and nuts.

Frequently Asked Questions About Caramel Toffee Recipe:

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, you can use salted butter, but omit the additional salt in the recipe.

2. How do I prevent my toffee from sticking to the pan?

Using parchment paper is key. It helps lift the toffee out easily once it sets.

3. Why is a candy thermometer necessary?

Precise temperature is crucial for achieving the right texture, so a thermometer ensures accuracy.

4. Can I make caramel toffee without corn syrup?

Yes, you can substitute it with honey or glucose syrup, though the texture may vary slightly.

5. What should I do if my toffee is too hard?

This can occur if it’s overcooked. Next time, remove it from the heat a few degrees lower than 245°F.

6. How long will caramel toffee last?

It stays fresh for up to 2 weeks if stored in an airtight container at room temperature.

7. Can I add nuts or chocolate to my toffee?

Absolutely! Add chopped nuts or drizzle melted chocolate over the toffee before it sets for added flavor.

8. Why did my toffee crystallize?

Stirring too much during cooking can cause crystallization. Stir gently only at the beginning.

9. Is caramel toffee gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

10. Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can double the ingredients but use a larger pan to ensure even cooking.

Conclusion:

Caramel toffee is an indulgent, delightful treat perfect for any occasion. With a few basic ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create a homemade toffee that rivals any store-bought version. Try it for a festive treat, or make a batch to share with friends and family!

YouTube Video Credits:
Hebbars Kitchen