Classic English Toffee with Chocolate & Nuts

This is a traditional, buttery English toffee with a deep caramel flavor, topped with melted chocolate and finely chopped nuts. It snaps cleanly once set, yet melts smoothly on the tongue. Perfect for holiday trays, gifting, or a simple old-fashioned treat made with just a handful of ingredients.

Yield

About 1 pound toffee

Ingredients

Toffee Base

1 cup unsalted butter
1 cup granulated sugar
3 tablespoons water
¼ teaspoon salt

Topping

1½ cups chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark)
½–¾ cup finely chopped nuts (almonds, pecans, or walnuts)

Instructions

Prepare the Pan

Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Set aside.

Make the Toffee

In a heavy-bottom saucepan, combine butter, sugar, water, and salt.
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the butter melts and the mixture comes together.

Continue cooking and stirring as the mixture bubbles and thickens. Watch closely as it turns from pale golden to a deep amber color. This takes about 10–15 minutes.

When the toffee reaches a rich caramel color (or 300°F on a candy thermometer), immediately remove from heat.

Pour and Top

Quickly pour the hot toffee onto the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly with a spatula.

Sprinkle chocolate chips over the hot toffee. Let sit 1–2 minutes until softened, then spread the melted chocolate evenly over the surface.

Immediately sprinkle with chopped nuts, pressing them gently into the chocolate.

Set and Break

Allow to cool completely at room temperature, or refrigerate for faster setting.

Once fully firm, break into irregular pieces.

Toffee Tips

• Stir constantly to prevent scorching
• Use a light-colored pan to better judge caramel color
• Remove from heat as soon as the toffee reaches deep amber to avoid bitterness
• Chop nuts finely so they adhere well to the chocolate

Storage

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or refrigerate for longer storage. Keep layers separated with parchment paper.

Nutritional Information (per piece, approx.)

Calories 170, Protein 2g, Fat 12g, Carbs 15g, Fiber 1g, Sugars 13g, Sodium 85mg