Here’s a recipe for classic caramel toffee candy, with step-by-step instructions to ensure a rich, buttery, and chewy treat. This recipe yields about 30-40 bite-sized pieces of caramel toffee.
🍬 Classic Caramel Toffee Candy Recipe
🧈 Ingredients:
Ingredient | Amount |
---|---|
Granulated sugar | 1 cup (200g) |
Light corn syrup | 1/2 cup (120ml) |
Heavy cream (whipping cream) | 1 cup (240ml) |
Unsalted butter | 1/2 cup (1 stick, 113g) |
Brown sugar (light or dark) | 1/2 cup (100g) |
Salt | 1/2 tsp |
Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
Optional toppings or mix-ins:
-
Chopped nuts (almonds, pecans, etc.)
-
Sea salt flakes
-
Chocolate drizzle
🛠️ Equipment:
-
Heavy-bottomed saucepan (2–3 qt size)
-
Candy thermometer (essential for accuracy)
-
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
-
8×8 inch baking pan
-
Parchment paper
-
Knife or candy cutter
🔥 Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the pan
-
Line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal.
-
Lightly grease the parchment with butter or nonstick spray.
2. Melt the ingredients
-
In the saucepan, combine:
-
1 cup sugar
-
1/2 cup brown sugar
-
1/2 cup corn syrup
-
1 cup heavy cream
-
1/2 cup butter
-
1/2 tsp salt
-
-
Place the pan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the butter melts and the mixture is smooth.
3. Cook the toffee
-
Attach your candy thermometer to the side of the pan.
-
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil while stirring.
-
Continue cooking the mixture until it reaches 245°F to 250°F (118°C–121°C) for soft caramels, or 260°F (127°C) for a firmer toffee.
⚠️ Be careful not to let the mixture burn. Stir frequently, especially near the end.
4. Finish with vanilla
-
Once the desired temperature is reached, remove the pan from heat.
-
Immediately stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract (stand back slightly; it may bubble up).
5. Pour and cool
-
Quickly pour the hot mixture into the prepared pan.
-
Do not scrape the bottom of the saucepan—this can introduce grainy bits.
-
Let it cool at room temperature for 30–60 minutes, then refrigerate for 1–2 hours until fully set.
6. Cut into pieces
-
Lift the toffee out using the parchment.
-
Use a sharp knife (lightly oiled or buttered) to cut into small squares or rectangles.
7. Wrap or store
-
Wrap each piece in wax paper or store in an airtight container with parchment layers between layers.
-
Store at room temperature for up to 2 weeks or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
✅ Tips for Success:
-
Don’t rush the cooking—slow and steady heat gives the best texture.
-
Use a reliable candy thermometer to avoid over- or undercooking.
-
For a richer flavor, use dark brown sugar.
-
Add sea salt flakes on top while the candy is still warm for a gourmet twist.
-
Avoid stirring once the caramel is boiling vigorously—this can cause crystallization.