Why You’ll Love This Toffee

• Incredibly easy to make — just 6 ingredients and no fancy equipment.
• Delightfully crunchy texture with a buttery finish.
• Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or edible gifts.
• Only 20 minutes of active prep — sweet rewards in minimal time!

Ingredients and Their Role

• 1 cup coarsely chopped pecans – Adds a nutty crunch and rich flavor to balance the sweetness.
• 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks) – Forms the base of the toffee; use high-quality butter for best results.
• 1 cup granulated sugar – Caramelizes with butter to create that signature toffee crunch.
• ½ tsp kosher salt – Enhances and balances the sweetness.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract – Adds depth and warmth to the toffee flavor.
• 1 cup milk chocolate chips – Melts over the warm toffee for a silky chocolate layer.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare your pan: Line a 9-inch square baking dish with parchment paper and lightly spray with cooking spray.
2. Layer the pecans: Spread chopped pecans evenly across the bottom of the prepared dish.
3. Cook the toffee base: In a heavy-bottomed 3-quart saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add sugar and salt, stirring frequently until the sugar dissolves.
4. Boil to hard crack stage: Allow the mixture to boil, stirring gently and evenly. Watch closely and use a candy thermometer — the toffee is ready at 290°F to 300°F (hard crack stage).
5. Flavor with vanilla: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
6. Pour and spread: Carefully pour the hot toffee over the pecans in an even layer. Do not spread or disturb it once poured.
7. Add chocolate chips: Immediately sprinkle the milk chocolate chips over the hot toffee.
8. Cover and melt: Place foil over the pan and let sit for 5 minutes. Then remove the foil and gently spread the melted chocolate over the toffee with a spatula.
9. Cool completely: Let the toffee cool at room temperature until firm (or refrigerate to speed up the process).
10. Break into pieces: Once set, lift the toffee out of the pan using the parchment paper and break into bite-sized shards.

Pro Tips for Perfect Toffee

• Use a reliable candy thermometer – Temperature is everything when making toffee. Too low, and it’s chewy; too high, and it’s burnt.
• Stir gently and consistently – Prevents separation of the butter and sugar.
• Choose fresh, high-quality ingredients – Real butter and quality vanilla make a noticeable difference.
• Line the pan well – Parchment paper ensures easy cleanup and lifting.

Serving Suggestions

• Gift it: Package in festive tins or cellophane bags for holiday gifts.
• Crush it: Use crumbled toffee as an ice cream topping or mix into brownie batter.
• Pair it: Serve alongside coffee, hot chocolate, or a dessert platter.

Why This Recipe Is a Fan Favorite

This recipe has earned a loyal following because it delivers consistent results every time. The balance of sweet, salty, nutty, and chocolatey flavors is absolutely irresistible. It’s a nostalgic treat for many and a new favorite for those who try it for the first time.