Buttercrunch Toffee (Homemade Heath Bar)
There’s something utterly irresistible about homemade Buttercrunch Toffee. With its rich, buttery flavor and delightful crunch, this treat is reminiscent of the classic Heath Bar but made fresh in your own kitchen. Picture this: a buttery toffee base, topped with a layer of silky chocolate, and sprinkled with crunchy nuts. It’s a sweet, salty, and oh-so-decadent combination that’s perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself!). In this guide, you’ll learn how to create your very own Buttercrunch Toffee, bringing a little bit of homemade joy into your life.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Buttercrunch Toffee (Homemade Heath Bar) recipe is a showstopper for many reasons. First, it captures the essence of the beloved candy bar but in a fresher, more satisfying form. The combination of buttery toffee, rich chocolate, and crunchy nuts creates a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more. Plus, making toffee at home is surprisingly simple! You’ll impress friends and family with your candy-making skills, and the satisfaction of creating this treat from scratch is truly unmatched.
What to Buy
To make this delicious Buttercrunch Toffee, you’ll need a few quality ingredients. Here’s a detailed list:
- 1.5 cups unsalted butter: This will be the base of your toffee, providing that rich, buttery flavor.
- 1.5 cups granulated sugar: Essential for sweetness and that signature crunch.
- 1.5 tablespoons light corn syrup: Helps prevent the sugar from crystallizing.
- 1/4 cup water: Used to dissolve the sugar and create the toffee consistency.
- 10 ounces mini semisweet chocolate chips: I recommend using Ghirardelli for their rich flavor.
- 3/4 cup finely chopped roasted almonds or pecans: I love using Trader Joe’s roasted & salted pecans for an added flavor boost.
- 1 to 2 teaspoons Maldon sea salt flakes: This will elevate the flavors and add the perfect finishing touch.
What’s in the Gear List
Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following tools on hand:
- Heavy-bottomed saucepan: This will help distribute heat evenly and prevent burning.
- Candy thermometer: Essential for monitoring the temperature of your toffee.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring and ensuring everything combines well.
- 9×13 inch baking pan: This is where your toffee will cool and set.
- Parchment paper: Lining your baking pan will make it easier to remove the toffee once cooled.
Buttercrunch Toffee (Homemade Heath Bar): From Prep to Plate
Ready to create your own Buttercrunch Toffee? Follow these simple steps to achieve candy perfection.
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by lining your 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper. This will ensure your toffee easily releases when it’s done cooling. Set it aside for later.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in a Saucepan
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and water. Stir gently until the mixture is combined.
Step 3: Heat the Mixture
Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir the mixture continuously until the butter has completely melted and the sugar has dissolved. It’s important to keep stirring to prevent the sugar from burning.
Step 4: Monitor the Temperature
Attach your candy thermometer to the side of the saucepan, ensuring it doesn’t touch the bottom of the pan. Allow the mixture to come to a boil, but do not stir. Continue cooking until the thermometer reads 300°F (hard crack stage).
Step 5: Pour the Toffee into the Pan
Once it reaches the desired temperature, immediately remove the pan from heat. Carefully pour the hot toffee into your prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly if necessary.
Step 6: Add Chocolate and Nuts
Allow the toffee to cool for about 5 minutes. Then, sprinkle the mini semisweet chocolate chips evenly over the top. Let them sit for a few minutes to soften, and then use a spatula to spread the melted chocolate over the toffee. Sprinkle the finely chopped roasted almonds or pecans on top, followed by the Maldon sea salt flakes.
Step 7: Cool and Set
Let the Buttercrunch Toffee cool completely at room temperature. For quicker results, you can place it in the refrigerator to set. Once cooled, break the toffee into pieces.
Tailor It to Your Diet
Want to customize your Buttercrunch Toffee? Here are some ideas:
- Nut-Free: Skip the nuts or substitute with sunflower seeds for a similar crunch.
- Dark Chocolate Lover: Swap out the semisweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the toffee mixture for a surprising heat.
- Vegan Option: Use a plant-based butter alternative and vegan chocolate chips to create a vegan version of this treat.
Pro Tips & Notes
- Make sure to keep an eye on the temperature as it can go from perfect to burnt very quickly.
- If you don’t have a candy thermometer, you can test the toffee by dropping a small amount into cold water; if it hardens and breaks, it’s ready.
- Be cautious when pouring the hot toffee, as it can be extremely hot and may cause burns.
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to the toffee mixture before pouring it into the pan.
Save for Later: Storage Tips
To keep your Buttercrunch Toffee fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:
- Store the toffee pieces in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
- If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the toffee in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to three months.
- To prevent sticking, you can separate layers of toffee with parchment paper when storing.
FAQ
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but be mindful of the additional salt in the recipe. You may want to reduce the amount of Maldon sea salt flakes you add on top.
Why did my toffee turn out grainy?
Graininess often occurs if the sugar crystallizes. Make sure to stir continuously until the sugar is fully dissolved, and avoid stirring after the mixture starts boiling.
Can I add other toppings to my Buttercrunch Toffee?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with toppings like crushed pretzels, coconut flakes, or even drizzles of white chocolate for a fun twist.
How do I know when my toffee is done cooking?
The toffee is done when it reaches a temperature of 300°F on a candy thermometer, or when it hardens quickly in cold water.
Cook This Next
If you loved making Buttercrunch Toffee, consider trying these delicious recipes next:
- Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Decadent Caramel Brownies
- Creamy Peanut Butter Fudge
- Salted Caramel Truffles
See You at the Table
Creating your own Buttercrunch Toffee (Homemade Heath Bar) is not just about enjoying a sweet treat; it’s about the experience of making something delicious from scratch. Whether you’re whipping this up for a special occasion or just because, you’re sure to delight everyone who takes a bite. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to indulge in this heavenly toffee. Enjoy every crunchy, chocolatey piece, and don’t forget to share (or keep a few for yourself)!
Buttercrunch Toffee (Homemade Heath Bar)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Prepare Your Pan - Line your 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper and set aside.
- Step 2: Combine Ingredients in a Saucepan - In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and water. Stir gently until combined.
- Step 3: Heat the Mixture - Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir continuously until the butter melts and sugar dissolves.
- Step 4: Monitor the Temperature - Attach the candy thermometer and cook until it reaches 300°F (hard crack stage) without stirring.
- Step 5: Pour the Toffee into the Pan - Remove from heat and pour the hot toffee into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread evenly if necessary.
- Step 6: Add Chocolate and Nuts - Cool for 5 minutes, sprinkle chocolate chips over the top, let soften, then spread. Add chopped nuts and sea salt flakes.
- Step 7: Cool and Set - Let cool completely at room temperature or refrigerate to set. Once cool, break into pieces.
Notes
- Keep an eye on the temperature; it can burn quickly.
- If you don’t have a candy thermometer, drop a small amount into cold water to test.
- Be careful pouring hot toffee; it can cause burns.
- Add a splash of vanilla extract for extra flavor.
