Name: Better Than Anything Toffee Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 2 h 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup coarsely chopped pecans; 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup milk chocolate chips

This Better Than Anything Toffee recipe delivers a delightful combination of rich, buttery toffee layered with crunchy pecans and smooth milk chocolate. It's a simple yet indulgent treat that's perfect for gifting or satisfying a sweet tooth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I find this toffee recipe incredibly easy to remember and prepare, thanks to its straightforward ingredient list. The harmonious blend of sweet and salty flavors, coupled with a satisfying crunch, makes it a crowd-pleaser. Whether I'm making it for holiday gifts or a personal treat, it never fails to impress.

Ingredients

(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup coarsely chopped pecans
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
1 cup granulated sugar
½ teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup milk chocolate chips

Directions

I start by spraying a 9-inch square baking dish with cooking spray and lining it with parchment paper.
Then, I spread the chopped pecans in a single layer over the parchment.
In a heavy-bottomed 3-quart saucepan, I combine the butter, sugar, and salt.
I bring the mixture to a boil over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to dissolve the sugar.
Once boiling, I continue to stir occasionally until the candy reaches 290°F to 300°F on a candy thermometer, known as the "hard crack" stage.
I remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Carefully, I pour the hot mixture over the chopped pecans in the prepared dish.
I let the candy sit undisturbed for a few minutes before sprinkling the chocolate chips on top.
I cover the dish with foil and let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the chocolate to soften.
After removing the foil, I gently spread the melted chocolate into an even layer.
I place the dish in the refrigerator and let the toffee cool completely, which takes at least 2 hours.
Once set, I lift the parchment out of the dish and place the toffee on a cutting board.
Using a knife, I break the toffee into smaller pieces.
I store the toffee in an airtight container in a cool place.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 24 pieces of toffee. The preparation time is about 20 minutes, and I allow at least 2 hours for the toffee to cool and set completely.

Variations

I enjoy customizing this toffee by substituting the pecans with other nuts like almonds or walnuts. For a different flavor profile, I sometimes use semisweet or dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate. Adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before the chocolate sets can also enhance the flavor.

Storage/Reheating

I store the toffee in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. To maintain its crisp texture, I keep it in a cool, dry place away from heat and humidity. If the environment is particularly warm, I refrigerate the toffee to prevent melting.

FAQs

What if I don't have a candy thermometer?

While a candy thermometer ensures accuracy, I can test the toffee's readiness by dropping a small amount into cold water. If it hardens immediately and breaks easily, it's at the "hard crack" stage.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but I reduce or omit the added kosher salt to prevent the toffee from becoming too salty.

How do I prevent the toffee from separating?

I make sure to stir the mixture consistently and evenly during cooking and avoid sudden temperature changes to maintain a smooth texture.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. I use a larger baking dish and ensure even spreading to maintain consistent thickness.

Is it necessary to refrigerate the toffee?

Refrigeration helps the toffee set faster, but if I have time, I let it cool at room temperature. However, in warmer climates, refrigeration prevents the chocolate from melting.

Conclusion

This Better Than Anything Toffee recipe is a delightful treat that's both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Its rich, buttery flavor combined with crunchy nuts and smooth chocolate makes it a favorite in my household. Whether I'm preparing it for a special occasion or simply indulging myself, this toffee never disappoints.

Better Than Anything Toffee Recipe

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Author: Sue
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
Yield: 24 pieces
Category: Dessert
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Better Than Anything Toffee is a rich, buttery treat topped with crunchy pecans and smooth milk chocolate—perfect for gifts or indulgent snacking.

Ingredients

1 cup coarsely chopped pecans
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
1 cup granulated sugar
½ teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup milk chocolate chips

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Instructions

Spray a 9-inch square baking dish with cooking spray and line with parchment paper.
Spread chopped pecans in a single layer over the parchment.
In a heavy-bottomed 3-quart saucepan, combine butter, sugar, and salt.
Bring to a boil over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until sugar dissolves.
Continue boiling and stirring occasionally until the mixture reaches 290°F to 300°F (hard crack stage).
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
Carefully pour the hot toffee mixture over the pecans in the baking dish.
Let it sit undisturbed for a few minutes, then sprinkle chocolate chips on top.
Cover with foil and let sit for 5 minutes to soften chocolate.
Remove foil and spread melted chocolate evenly.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until fully set.
Lift parchment out, place toffee on a cutting board, and break into pieces with a knife.
Store in an airtight container in a cool place.