Wednesday, November 18, 2009

English Toffee


This is a classic favorite we have been making for years. The most important thing is to use an accurate candy thermometer or have a solid grip on the cold water test. If it's not brought all the way to 320 degrees, it will be more taffy than toffee and a filling breaker at that!
1# butter - melted
1# sugar (about 2 cups) - granulated
4 oz water
stir together in a medium heavy bottomed saucepan over medium heat until sugar is dissolved. attach a candy thermometer on the side and cook over med heat until mixture registers 310 degrees (the top side of Hard Crack Stage) immediately pour onto a sheetpan fitted with a parchment paper liner... tilt pan slightly to distibute, or smooth carefully with a spatula, work quickly! Let cool about 10 minutes until sugar is hard, but still hot. sprinkle on chocolate chips (we use semi sweet, though Dark or milk would work here, too) It takes about 2 cups. Let sit until chocolate is shiny, about 15 minutes. spread melted chips smooth (an offset spatula works great for this) and sprinkle on finely chopped nuts (we use pecans, but again, you could use walnuts or even slivered almonds) let cool completely. A quick trip to the fridge once it's room temp will help set the chocolate and firm things up. Break into pieces and package as desired. Will keep in an airtight container for 2 months...unless it's at my house!

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