Give the gift of food this Christmas with these chewy salted toffees. You will need a sugar thermometer for this recipe.

What you need to know before you start

You’ll need a sugar thermometer when making this recipe. This takes the guesswork out of cooking sugar to allow for precise results, but you can do without. Instead, you’ll need to cook your sugar until a ‘soft ball’ stage. Have a small spoon and glass of cold water ready and check the temperature by taking a small amount of sugar and dropping it into the cold water. The sugar is ready when it forms a soft, pliable ball, which doesn't hold its shape and slowly flattens like a pancake when you take it out of the water. The telltale sign that you’re close to this stage is the shape of the bubbles. The best way to avoid overheating your sugar is to heat your sugar over medium-low heat and keep an eye on it. If you do choose to purchase a sugar thermometer, keep it in your drawer and use it for other baking dishes and techniques like spun sugar and custard tarts. 

Start this recipe at least 2 hours before you’re ready to serve as it needs time to set and cool. You’ll also need some other basic equipment. such as a rubber spatula, a saucepan and a square cake pan. 

Why is this the best salted toffees recipe for Christmas?

This impressive sweet treat is perfect for the festive season. The chewy and soft texture from the sweet toffee paired with the saltiness from the smoked sea salt combine to create a luxe dessert that’s great for gift giving (or for keeping all to yourself). It’s an inexpensive way to treat your friends and family this Christmas. 

This homemade salted caramel toffee is a great base recipe for you to make your own. Jazz it up with a layer of chocolate, pretzel pieces and pistachios, or use the toffee mixture in cookies or the centre of brownies for added indulgence. 

What can go wrong with making toffee?

There are a number of common toffee-making mistakes that you should be aware of. The most common one is the separation of the butter and sugar, leaving an oily finish. This can happen if the temperature is set too high, causing the toffee to heat too quickly, or from over-stirring the mixture. 

If you overcook the mixture past the soft ball stage, the final texture once cooled will be harder and brittle.

What ingredients you’ll need 

Caster sugar: The fine grains of caster sugar help to dissolve more easily compared to other sugars. This results in quicker and a more even caramelisation. 

Thickened cream: Thickened cream adds a rich, creamy texture to create a luscious finish. 

Sweetened condensed milk: The richness, creaminess and sweetness of condensed milk adds a flavourful base to offset the saltiness from the sea salt. 

Liquid glucose: Also sometimes referred to as glucose syrup, liquid glucose is used to stop the toffee from crystallising, which can lead to a gritty texture.  

Unsalted butter: Butter is a crucial ingredient in making toffee. It imparts a rich and creamy flavour to create a smooth texture. 

Smoked sea salt flakes: Sea salt balances the richness and sweetness of the other ingredients. It’s added both in the toffee mixture and sprinkled on top to add a beautiful visual finish. We choose smoked salt for an extra depth of flavour. 

How to make chewy salted toffees

When making salted toffees from scratch, it’s important to follow our step-by-step guide for best results. Be sure to use a sugar thermometer for exact results. Once the sugars have dissolved (this should take roughly 5-7 minutes over a low heat), increase the temperature to high and stir constantly until a sugar thermometer hits 118°C. 

The consistency should be smooth and the colours should be a rich caramel hue. Pour the toffee into a pan and be sure to set it aside for two hours at room temperature. Storing it in the fridge can prevent the toffee from becoming brittle. 

How to store and serve salted toffees as edible Christmas gifts

We recommend wrapping each piece of toffee in baking paper and storing in an airtight container at room temperature. This should last for up to 1 week. 

If you’re making these as edible gifts, use mini carton boxes, pouches or plastic packaging to wrap portions of toffee. Secure with twine and adorn each box or bag with a gift tag and a bow for that extra-special touch.

If you love our salted toffees recipe, try this 

In the giving mood? Package up our homemade Christmas salted toffees alongside our other fantastic edible gift ideas:

• Chocolate peppermint fudge
• Caramel pretzel truffles
• Fruit mince