Salted Dark Chocolate Almond Toffee
This homemade Salted Dark Chocolate Almond Toffee is a delightful treat that combines rich, buttery toffee with the crunch of toasted almonds and decadent dark chocolate. Whether you are preparing for a holiday gathering or just want something sweet at home, this toffee will impress everyone. It’s perfect for sharing, gifting, or simply indulging in yourself!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of salted dark chocolate and crunchy almonds creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and minimal fuss, you can create gourmet candy right in your kitchen.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect as a dessert, snack, or gift for friends and family during special occasions.
- Customizable Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite nuts or even sprinkle some spice to make it uniquely yours.
- Impressive Presentation: The glossy finish of the chocolate and the beautiful almond topping make this toffee visually stunning.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making Salted Dark Chocolate Almond Toffee, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Candy thermometer
- Heavy-duty saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Silicone baking mat or parchment paper
- Baking sheet
- Food processor (optional)
Importance of Each Tool
- Candy thermometer: Ensures accurate temperature readings for perfect toffee consistency.
- Heavy-duty saucepan: Provides even heat distribution for melting ingredients without burning.
Ingredients
This homemade salted dark chocolate almond toffee is completely over the top in the best way possible. Covered in rich salted dark chocolate, each sweet buttery bite is filled with crunchy toasted almonds.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups (340g; 12 ounces) whole unsalted almonds
– 1 cup (230g; 8 ounces) unsalted butter, cubed
– 1/2 cup (120ml; 4 ounces) warm water
– 1 cup (199g; 7 ounces) granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon light corn syrup
– 8 ounces (224g) dark chocolate, finely chopped
– coarse sea salt or flaky sea salt, for sprinkling on top
How to Make Salted Dark Chocolate Almond Toffee
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 300°F (149°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Step 2: Toast the Almonds
- Spread the whole almonds onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 15 minutes, stirring twice during this time.
- Remove from the oven and allow them to cool. Set aside one cup of whole almonds and finely chop the remaining cup.
Step 3: Prepare the Jelly Roll Pan
Line a 12×17-inch jelly roll pan with either parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Step 4: Melt the Butter
In a heavy-duty saucepan over medium heat, melt the cubed butter. Stir occasionally with a wooden spoon until fully melted.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Once melted:
1. Add warm water, granulated sugar, salt, and corn syrup into the saucepan.
2. Stir constantly until the sugar dissolves completely.
3. Brush down the sides of the pan with a water-moistened pastry brush.
Step 6: Monitor Temperature
Attach a candy thermometer without letting it touch the bottom of the pan. Bring mixture to a boil while stirring occasionally.
Step 7: Add Almonds
When boiling begins:
1. Stop stirring.
2. At about 265°F (129°C), stir in one cup of toasted whole almonds.
3. If mixture separates, remove thermometer and stir vigorously until combined again.
Step 8: Cook Until Soft Crack Stage
Continue cooking until it reaches about 290°F (143°C).
Step 9: Pour into Pan
Turn off heat and carefully pour the hot toffee onto your prepared jelly roll pan. Smooth it into an even layer and let cool for about five minutes.
Step 10: Add Chocolate
Sprinkle half of your chopped dark chocolate on top:
1. Allow it to soften from heat before spreading into an even layer.
2. Top with half of your crushed almonds and press down gently.
Step 11: Refrigerate
Refrigerate for about 20 minutes until set.
Step 12: Final Touches
Once set:
1. Flip over so you can peel off from silicone mat easily.
2. Melt remaining chopped chocolate in microwave in short bursts until smooth.
3. Spread over set toffee and top with remaining crushed almonds while pressing gently.
4. Finish by sprinkling coarse sea salt on top.
Step 13: Chill Again
Refrigerate again for another 20 minutes until fully set before slicing into pieces as desired.
Enjoy your homemade Salted Dark Chocolate Almond Toffee!
How to Serve Salted Dark Chocolate Almond Toffee
Serving salted dark chocolate almond toffee is an opportunity to impress guests with a delightful treat that combines sweet and savory flavors. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your toffee experience.
With Coffee or Espresso
- Pairing with a rich cup of coffee or espresso will balance the sweetness of the toffee, enhancing its flavors.
As a Dessert Platter
- Arrange the toffee on a dessert platter alongside other sweets like cookies, brownies, or fruit for a colorful and inviting display.
In Gift Boxes
- Package pieces of toffee in decorative boxes or jars as thoughtful gifts for holidays or special occasions.
Topped on Ice Cream
- Crumble the toffee over vanilla or chocolate ice cream for an extra crunch and flavor boost in your dessert.
With Cheese and Charcuterie
- Add the toffee to a cheese board. Its sweet and salty profile complements various cheeses and cured meats beautifully.
As Party Favors
- Wrap individual pieces in cellophane tied with ribbons. These make excellent party favors for birthdays or weddings.
How to Perfect Salted Dark Chocolate Almond Toffee
Making perfect salted dark chocolate almond toffee requires attention and care. Follow these tips for the best results.
- Use high-quality chocolate: Opt for good quality dark chocolate as it enhances the overall taste of your toffee.
- Monitor temperature closely: Use a reliable candy thermometer; precise temperatures are crucial for achieving the right texture.
- Toast almonds well: Toasting brings out deeper flavors in almonds, which add richness to your toffee.
- Stir gently during cooking: Avoid vigorous stirring once boiling begins to prevent crystallization.
- Cool completely before cutting: Allow the toffee to set thoroughly; this ensures clean cuts and prevents crumbling.
- Store properly: Keep the finished product in an airtight container at room temperature for lasting freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Salted Dark Chocolate Almond Toffee
Pairing side dishes with salted dark chocolate almond toffee can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some excellent options.
- Cheesecake Bites: Small, creamy bites of cheesecake complement the crunchy toffee perfectly.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of fresh fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the sweet richness of the toffee.
- Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: These decadent treats enhance chocolate flavors and provide a juicy texture.
- Mini Cupcakes: Offer small cupcakes with various frostings, allowing guests variety alongside their toffee.
- Nut Mix: A simple nut mix can echo the almond flavor while adding different textures and tastes.
- Pecan Pie Bars: The caramel notes in pecan pie bars work harmoniously with the richness of the chocolate almond toffee.
- Caramel Popcorn: Sweet and salty caramel popcorn adds fun crunchiness that pairs nicely with your homemade treat.
- Ice Cream Sundae Bar: Set up an ice cream sundae bar where guests can customize their desserts with toppings including pieces of your delicious toffee.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making salted dark chocolate almond toffee can be tricky. Here are some common pitfalls to steer clear of.
- Using unsalted butter: Always use unsalted butter for control over salt levels. This ensures your toffee isn’t overly salty.
- Overcooking the mixture: Monitor the temperature closely. Cooking past the soft crack stage can lead to hard toffee instead of a chewy texture.
- Skipping the toasting step: Toasting almonds enhances their flavor. Never skip this step for a richer taste in your toffee.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision is key in candy making. Use a kitchen scale for consistent results and avoid guessing measurements.
- Ignoring cooling time: Allow the toffee to cool properly before slicing. Cutting too early can result in uneven pieces that crumble.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store salted dark chocolate almond toffee in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.
Freezing Salted Dark Chocolate Almond Toffee
- Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag.
- You can freeze the toffee for up to 3 months.
Reheating Salted Dark Chocolate Almond Toffee
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C) and warm the toffee on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on low power for short intervals (10 seconds), checking frequently until slightly warm.
- Stovetop: Place a piece of parchment paper over medium heat, warm briefly until slightly softened.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common queries related to salted dark chocolate almond toffee.
Can I use different nuts in salted dark chocolate almond toffee?
Yes, you can substitute or mix other nuts like pecans or walnuts. Just ensure they are toasted for optimal flavor.
What type of chocolate is best for this recipe?
For the richest flavor, use high-quality dark chocolate with at least 60% cocoa content. This enhances both taste and texture.
How do I know when my candy reaches the right temperature?
Using a candy thermometer is essential. Aim for soft crack stage at 290°F (143°C) for perfect consistency.
Can I make salted dark chocolate almond toffee ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it days or weeks in advance, storing it correctly as mentioned above.
Final Thoughts
This salted dark chocolate almond toffee offers an irresistible combination of sweet and salty flavors that will delight any palate. Feel free to customize by adding spices or using different types of nuts and chocolates. Give it a try; it’s perfect for sharing or indulging all by yourself!
Salted Dark Chocolate Almond Toffee
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful experience of homemade Salted Dark Chocolate Almond Toffee, a perfect blend of buttery toffee, crunchy toasted almonds, and rich dark chocolate. This delectable confection makes for an exquisite dessert or a thoughtful gift during holiday gatherings and special occasions. The balance of sweet and salty flavors will impress anyone who takes a bite, making it an irresistible treat for sharing or enjoying on your own.
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole unsalted almonds
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon light corn syrup
- 8 ounces dark chocolate
- Coarse sea salt for finishing
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 300°F (149°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Toast the almonds for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally; cool and chop half.
- In a heavy-duty saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add warm water, sugar, salt, and corn syrup; stir until sugar dissolves.
- Attach a candy thermometer and bring the mixture to a boil without stirring.
- When boiling, add whole toasted almonds at about 265°F (129°C). Cook until reaching soft crack stage at 290°F (143°C).
- Pour into a lined jelly roll pan; cool slightly before adding melted dark chocolate and remaining chopped almonds on top.
- Refrigerate until set, then slice into pieces.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ounce (28g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
