Chewy Toffee Bites Recipe
Introduction
Chewy Toffee Bites are a delightful treat combining rich caramelized sugar, buttery toffee, and a touch of chocolate and pecans. These bite-sized sweets are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or gifting to friends and family.
Ingredients
- 2 cups (400 g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (2 sticks) cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 cup mini semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup coarsely chopped toasted pecans
- Flaky sea salt
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat, evenly sprinkle 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Cook, stirring occasionally, until sugar is melted, about 1 minute. Repeat with the remaining sugar, adding 1/4 cup at a time until the sugar is completely melted. The sugar should turn a deep amber brown, and an instant-read or candy thermometer should read 275° to 280° F.
- Step 2: Remove the pot from heat. Whisking constantly, add 2 cubes of cold butter at a time, allowing each addition to melt fully before adding more.
- Step 3: Divide the toffee evenly among 30 compartments of standard-size silicone ice cube molds, about 1 tablespoon per compartment. Sprinkle approximately 2 teaspoons of mini chocolate chips over each toffee portion and let them sit until melted, about 2 minutes.
- Step 4: Using the back of a 1/2 teaspoon measuring spoon, spread the melted chocolate in an even layer over the toffee. Immediately top with toasted pecans and a pinch of flaky sea salt.
- Step 5: Refrigerate the molds until the toffee bites are set, for at least 30 minutes and up to 1 hour. Once firm, pop the bites out of the molds and enjoy.
Tips & Variations
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure the sugar reaches the correct temperature for perfect toffee texture.
- Swap pecans for almonds or walnuts for different nutty flavors.
- Add a sprinkle of cayenne or cinnamon to the chocolate layer for a spicy twist.
- Make sure the butter is cold to help create a smooth, glossy toffee.
Storage
Store the toffee bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. To maintain crispness, keep them away from moisture. If preferred, store in the refrigerator to extend freshness up to one month. Let them come to room temperature before eating to enjoy the chewy texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of mini ones?
Yes, regular chocolate chips can be used, but they may take longer to melt and spread. Mini chips are preferable for quick, even melting.
What if I don’t have silicone ice cube molds?
You can use a parchment-lined baking sheet or a shallow pan instead. Pour the toffee mixture evenly and score into squares once slightly cooled, then add chocolate and toppings as directed.
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Chewy Toffee Bites Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 30 toffee bites 1x
Description
Chewy Toffee Bites are a delightful homemade treat featuring rich, buttery toffee topped with melted semisweet chocolate chips, toasted pecans, and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. These bite-sized confections combine the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and nutty flavors with a satisfying chewy texture, ideal for indulgent snacking or gift-giving.
Ingredients
Toffee Base
- 2 cups (400 g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (2 sticks) cold unsalted butter, cubed
Toppings
- 1 cup mini semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup coarsely chopped toasted pecans
- Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling
Instructions
- Caramelize Sugar: In a medium Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat, evenly sprinkle 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Cook, stirring occasionally, until sugar is melted and begins to turn amber, about 1 minute. Repeat this process by adding the remaining sugar in 1/4 cup increments, letting each batch melt completely. The sugar should achieve a deep amber color with a temperature between 275° and 280°F on a candy thermometer.
- Incorporate Butter: Remove the pot from heat. Whisk in the cold cubed butter two pieces at a time, allowing each addition to melt fully before adding more. This process creates a smooth, rich toffee base.
- Portion Toffee: Spoon the hot toffee evenly into the 30 compartments of silicone ice cube molds, using approximately 1 tablespoon per compartment.
- Add Chocolate Layer: Immediately sprinkle about 2 teaspoons of mini semisweet chocolate chips over each portion. Let them sit for 2 minutes to melt.
- Spread Chocolate: Using the back of a 1/2 teaspoon measuring spoon, spread the melted chocolate evenly over the toffee in each mold.
- Top and Season: Sprinkle coarsely chopped toasted pecans and a pinch of flaky sea salt on each chocolate layer to enhance flavor and texture.
- Set the Bites: Refrigerate the molds for at least 30 minutes and up to 1 hour until the toffee bites are fully set and firm.
Notes
- Carefully monitor the sugar while melting—it can burn quickly once it reaches the amber stage.
- Using cold unsalted butter helps achieve the right chewy texture in the toffee.
- Silicone ice cube molds are ideal for easy removal and uniform bite sizes.
- Feel free to substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if preferred.
- Store the finished toffee bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or refrigerate to extend freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: toffee bites, chewy toffee, homemade candy, chocolate toffee, pecan toffee, easy dessert, holiday treats
