I think that English Toffee is the easiest candy ever to make. It's very impressive to give, even though you can make it in less than a half hour.
Just out of curiosity I tried a couple no thermometer recipes I saw on Pinterest. They were disasters, the whole lot of them. Seriously the only way to guarantee a delicious batch is to use a thermometer.
It's simple and takes the guesswork out of it.
English Toffee
Ingredients
1 cup salted butter ( no substitutions please)
1 cup white sugar
1 tsp real vanilla
1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1/4 cup toasted sliced almonds or toasted pecan pieces
Before you start place a sheet of foil on a baking sheet and butter it lightly. Get your nuts and chocolate ready to go. You will have no time to go looking for stuff once the candy sets.
Use a heavy bottomed saucepan and a whisk or wooden spoon. I have used silicone spatulas for stirring also. I hear now and again that you should only use a wooden spoon but I have had success with most utensils. If you use a plastic spoon make sure it won't melt or you will get yucky plastic streaked candy.(yep learned that the hard way....)
Melt the butter over medium high heat. Everyones stove is different so watching your candy from start to finish is critical. Add the sugar and vanilla. Boil your candy until it reaches 290 degrees on a good candy thermometer. That will take anywhere from 4 to 6 minutes depending on the heat. Stir constantly or it WILL scorch. It should start turning a beautiful light tan colour just before its done.
Once its reached temperature pour it out onto your buttered foil.
After a minute or so sprinkle your chocolate chips on top of the toffee. After it melts a bit spread the chocolate smooth with the back of a spoon or a spatula. Sprinkle your nuts on top. Let it cool completely.
Break into pieces and enjoy!
