Description
This irresistible Southern Pecan Toffee recipe combines rich, buttery toffee with crunchy pecan halves for a sweet and nutty treat you’ll crave again and again. Perfectly caramelized toffee is poured over toasted pecans, cooled until crisp, and optionally finished with a drizzle of melted chocolate for an extra layer of indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
Toffee Base
- 2 sticks Unsalted butter (1 cup)
- 2 cups Granulated sugar
- â…“ cup Light corn syrup
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
- 1 tsp Kosher salt
Nuts
- 1 lb Pecan halves
Instructions
- Prepare the baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring it covers the entire surface. Spread the pecan halves in a single layer on the sheet for even toffee coverage.
- Melt the butter: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the unsalted butter and let it melt completely, ensuring it does not brown.
- Combine the ingredients: Once the butter has melted, stir in the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, vanilla extract, and kosher salt. Mix well and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Cook to desired color: Allow the mixture to bubble and cook for about 12 to 15 minutes, stirring frequently, until it reaches a medium brown caramel color indicating toffee formation.
- Pour over pecans: Carefully pour the hot toffee mixture evenly over the prepared pecans on the baking sheet. Use a spatula to smooth and distribute the toffee thoroughly.
- Cool and set: Let the toffee cool at room temperature undisturbed until it hardens and becomes crunchy, about 30 to 45 minutes.
- Break into pieces: Once completely cooled, break the toffee into bite-sized pieces. Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Optional Chocolate Drizzle: For extra indulgence, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled toffee pieces before serving.
Notes
- Use a candy thermometer for precise temperature control; the toffee should reach around 300°F (hard crack stage).
- Ensure even layering of pecans for optimal toffee coverage and consistent texture.
- Store toffee in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
- Optionally, toast pecans lightly before using to enhance their flavor.
- Drizzling with dark or semi-sweet chocolate pairs beautifully and adds a complementary flavor.
