Looking for a treat that’s rich, buttery, and packed with crunchy goodness? Say hello to Butter Toffee with Pecans — a timeless candy that’s perfect for holiday gifts, dessert tables, or simply treating yourself.
With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, this homemade toffee is the kind of recipe you’ll come back to year after year.
⭐ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple ingredients, easy steps
- A crowd-pleasing dessert or edible gift
- Crunchy, buttery, and chocolatey in every bite
- Keeps well and makes a stunning presentation
🥣 Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this magical toffee, you’ll need:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped pecans (toasted if desired)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: Extra chopped pecans for topping
👩🍳 How to Make Butter Toffee with Pecans
Step 1: Prep Your Pan
Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Leave some overhang on the edges to make it easy to lift out later.
Step 2: Cook the Toffee Base
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine butter, sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Stir continuously until the mixture begins to boil.
Step 3: Let It Caramelize
Once it starts boiling, stop stirring. Let it cook for 5–7 minutes, or until it turns a deep golden brown. If using a candy thermometer, aim for 300°F — the “hard crack” stage.
Step 4: Add Flavor and Nuts
Remove from heat and immediately stir in the vanilla extract and chopped pecans.
Step 5: Pour and Set
Quickly pour the hot mixture into your lined baking pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. Let it cool for about 5–10 minutes.
Step 6: Add Chocolate
While still warm, sprinkle chocolate chips evenly over the top. Wait a few minutes for them to melt, then spread the chocolate into a smooth layer.
Step 7: Garnish (Optional)
Sprinkle additional chopped pecans over the melted chocolate if desired.
Step 8: Cool and Break
Let the toffee cool completely at room temperature (or refrigerate to speed things up). Once firm, lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper and break it into irregular pieces.
🧠 Helpful Tips for Success
- Use high-quality butter for the best flavor.
- Toast the pecans beforehand to enhance their nuttiness.
- Don’t stir the sugar once it starts boiling — this ensures a smooth, glossy toffee.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
🥜 Is Butter Toffee with Pecans Healthy?
Let’s be honest — this is an indulgent treat. But that doesn’t mean it can’t have some nutritional upsides:
- Pecans are full of healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants.
- But like all candies, sugar and butter make it rich — so enjoy it in moderation.
