Craving a sweet, buttery treat that will transport your taste buds to the rolling green hills of Scotland? Look no further than this divine Scottish Toffee recipe inspired by the cozy charm of the Scottish countryside. Rich, indulgent, and oh-so-delicious, this toffee makes for the perfect homemade gift or a delightful treat to enjoy with a cup of tea. Follow along with our step-by-step instructions to create this delectable confection in your own kitchen.
**Scottish Toffee**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup chopped toasted nuts (such as almonds or walnuts)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare Your Pan**: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside. Make sure the parchment paper overhangs the sides for easy removal once the toffee sets.
2. **Melt the Butter**: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent the butter from burning.
3. **Add Sugar and Water**: Once the butter has melted, add the granulated sugar, water, and salt to the saucepan. Stir the mixture continuously until the sugar has dissolved.
4. **Cook the Toffee**: Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the saucepan and allow the mixture to come to a boil. Cook the toffee until it reaches 300°F (150°C), stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
5. **Add Vanilla Extract**: Once the toffee reaches the desired temperature, remove the saucepan from the heat and carefully stir in the vanilla extract. The mixture will sizzle, so be cautious.
6. **Pour and Spread**: Immediately pour the hot toffee onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread the toffee into an even layer while it is still hot.
7. **Add Chocolate Chips**: Sprinkle the semisweet chocolate chips evenly over the hot toffee. Let them sit for a few minutes to soften before spreading them into a smooth and glossy layer over the toffee.
8. **Top with Nuts**: Scatter the chopped toasted nuts over the melted chocolate, gently pressing them into the surface to ensure they stick.
9. **Cool and Set**: Allow the toffee to cool completely at room temperature until the chocolate has hardened and the toffee is set. For quicker setting, you can place the baking sheet in the refrigerator.
10. **Break into Pieces**: Once the toffee has set, lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper overhangs. Break the toffee into bite-sized pieces using your hands or a sharp knife.
11. **Serve and Enjoy**: Indulge in the sweet, buttery goodness of your homemade Scottish Toffee. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
Capture the essence of Scotland with every bite of this delightful Scottish Toffee. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself, this recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite in your household. Experiment with different nut combinations or even sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the chocolate for a gourmet twist. Have fun crafting this delectable confection and savor the taste of a homemade treat straight from the heart of Scotland.
