Aunt Rose’s Fantastic Butter Toffee

This classic butter toffee recipe turns simple ingredients such as butter, sugar and almonds into a glossy, caramelized treat that’s both crunchy and rich. Whether you’re packaging it up for a special gift or making it to share with family, homemade toffee makes an impression. This toffee is a candy that’s just as decadent as anything you’d find in a fancy confectionery store.

Butter Toffee Ingredients

• Almonds: Toasting the almonds deepens their nutty flavor and adds a satisfying crunch to the toffee. They provide texture and a rich contrast to the sweetness of the chocolate and sugar.
• Milk chocolate: Milk chocolate creates a creamy and sweet coating that complements the buttery richness of the toffee. It also helps to bind the almonds to the candy, ensuring that each bite has a balanced mix of flavors.
• Butter: Melting the butter with sugar and water forms the base of the toffee, contributing to its rich, smooth texture. If you want to go the extra mile, try using homemade butter.
• Sugar: As it cooks with the butter and water, the sugar caramelizes, creating the classic toffee flavor with its deep, caramel notes. It also provides the necessary structure and hardness once cooled.
• Cold water: The water helps dissolve the sugar evenly and ensures a smooth mixture. It also slows down the caramelization process, allowing for better control over the toffee’s final texture.

Directions    

Step 1: Prepare the almonds and chocolate

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spread the almonds in a single layer on a shallow baking pan and toast them in the oven until golden brown, 5 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even browning. Once toasted, allow the almonds to cool completely. Meanwhile, pulse the milk chocolate in a food processor until finely ground, taking care not to overprocess it. Transfer the ground chocolate to a bowl and set aside. Next, pulse the cooled almonds in the food processor until coarsely chopped. 

Step 2: Assemble the toffee base

Grease a 15x10x1-inch pan. Evenly sprinkle 1 cup of chopped almonds over the bottom of the prepared pan, followed by 1 cup of the chocolate. In a heavy saucepan, combine the cubed butter, sugar and cold water. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture reaches 290°F on a candy thermometer (soft-crack stage). The mixture should be bubbling and thickened.

Step 3: Complete the toffee and let it set

Immediately pour the hot toffee mixture over the almonds and chocolate in the prepared pan, spreading it out quickly and evenly to cover the entire surface. While the toffee is still hot, sprinkle the remaining ground chocolate and chopped almonds evenly over the top. Place the pan in the refrigerator to allow the toffee to cool and set completely. Once set, break the toffee into pieces and store them in an airtight container.

Butter Toffee Variations   

• Add coarse sea salt: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the top of the toffee after adding the chocolate and almonds. The salt will enhance the sweetness and add a sophisticated flavor contrast.
• Use dark chocolate: Substitute dark chocolate for the milk chocolate for a richer, slightly more bitter flavor that pairs well with the sweet toffee.
• Make it fruity: Mix in finely chopped dried cranberries or cherries with the almonds before sprinkling over the toffee for a sweet and tart contrast.
• Spice it up: Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the sugar and butter mixture before cooking for a subtle spiced flavor.
• Go nuts: Replace the almonds with a different type of nut, such as pecans, hazelnuts or pistachios, to change the flavor profile while keeping the same crunchy texture.

How to Store Butter Toffee

To keep your butter toffee fresh and delicious, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. This prevents the toffee from absorbing moisture, which can make it sticky. If you live in a warm climate, you can also store it in the refrigerator to ensure that it stays firm and crisp.

How long does butter toffee last?

Butter toffee can last for up to two weeks when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. If kept in the refrigerator, it can stay fresh for up to a month. 

Can you freeze butter toffee?

Yes, you can freeze butter toffee to extend its shelf life to up to three months. Simply place the toffee pieces in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then store them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let the toffee thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

Can you make butter toffee ahead of time?

Yes, butter toffee is a great make-ahead treat. You can prepare it days or even weeks in advance, and it will still taste fresh and delicious when you’re ready to serve it. Just be sure to store it properly in an airtight container to maintain its crisp texture.

Butter Toffee Tips    

What is the best type of sugar to use in butter toffee?

The best type of sugar to use in butter toffee is granulated white sugar. It melts smoothly and caramelizes evenly, creating the classic rich, golden-brown color and deep caramel flavor that defines traditional butter toffee. Using granulated sugar ensures that the toffee achieves the right texture and consistency. You won’t get the same results with other types of sugar.

Can I add flavor extracts to butter toffee?

Yes, you can add flavor extracts to butter toffee for a customized taste. Popular options include homemade vanilla extract, almond extract, or even a hint of coffee extract. To avoid altering the texture, add the extract after the toffee has reached the desired temperature and has been removed from the heat. Stir in the extract quickly to evenly distribute the flavor before pouring the toffee into the pan.

What’s the best way to clean a pot after making butter toffee?

Cleaning a pot after making butter toffee can be tricky because of the sticky, hardened sugar. The easiest way to clean it is to fill the pot with water and bring it to a boil on the stove. The heat will dissolve the sugar, making it easy to scrub away any residue. After boiling, let the pot cool slightly, then wash it with warm, soapy water.

How can I make butter toffee without a candy thermometer?

If you don’t have a candy thermometer, you can use the cold water test to determine when your toffee is ready. After cooking the toffee mixture for several minutes, drop a small amount into a glass of cold water. If the toffee forms a hard, brittle thread that snaps easily, it has reached the soft-crack stage and is ready to be poured into the pan. This method requires careful attention, but it can be a reliable alternative to using a thermometer.