Name: Salted Dark Chocolate Almond Toffee Recipe
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 2 h
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups whole unsalted almonds; 1 cup unsalted butter; ½ cup warm water; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp light corn syrup; 8 oz dark chocolate; sea salt

Indulge in the decadent harmony of sweet and salty with this salted dark chocolate almond toffee recipe. This treat is a delightful mix of crunchy almonds covered in rich, buttery toffee, layered with dark chocolate, and sprinkled with a dash of sea salt for the ultimate dessert experience.

Photos of Salted Dark Chocolate Almond Toffee Recipe

Most of the ingredients in this recipe are common pantry staples. However, you might need to keep an eye out for a couple of items. Firstly, you need high-quality dark chocolate, which can significantly influence the taste of the toffee. Secondly, ensure to get hold of sea salt which provides the characteristic 'salted' touch to this dessert, transforming it from ordinary to spectacular.

Ingredients for Salted Dark Chocolate Almond Toffee

Unsalted almonds: These nuts form the core of the toffee and provide a delightful crunch in every bite.

Unsalted butter: Used in the toffee base, it gives the dessert a rich, buttery flavor.

Warm water: Helps in dissolving the sugar and achieving the right consistency of the toffee.

Granulated sugar: Sweetens the toffee and contributes to its hard, crackling texture.

Salt: Enhances and balances the sweetness of the toffee.

Light corn syrup: Prevents crystallization of sugar, ensuring a smooth and creamy toffee.

Dark chocolate: A bitter-sweet layer that beautifully contrasts the sweet toffee and salty almonds.

Sea salt: The finishing touch that elevates the dessert by adding a potent salty kick.

One reader, Brod Newby says:

This salted dark chocolate almond toffee recipe is a game-changer! The combination of rich dark chocolate, crunchy almonds, and a hint of sea salt creates a heavenly treat. The recipe is easy to follow, and the end result is absolutely divine. I highly recommend it for anyone with a sweet tooth!

Brod Newby

Techniques Required for Making Salted Dark Chocolate Almond Toffee

How to toast almonds: Spread the almonds onto a baking sheet and bake at 300°F for 15 minutes, stirring them around twice during that time. Allow them to cool before using.

How to melt butter: Melt the cubed butter over medium heat in a 3-quart heavy-duty saucepan, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon until fully melted.

How to dissolve sugar: Stir the water, sugar, salt, and corn syrup in the melted butter until the sugar dissolves, then brush down the sides of the pan with a water-moistened pastry brush.

How to use a candy thermometer: Attach a candy thermometer to the pan, ensuring it does not touch the bottom of the pan. Monitor the temperature as the mixture cooks.

How to add almonds to toffee: At 265°F, stir in the 1 cup of toasted whole almonds. If the mixture separates, remove the candy thermometer and stir vigorously until it comes back together.

How to spread chocolate: Sprinkle half of the chopped chocolate on top of the toffee and allow it to soften and melt from the heat of the toffee. Then, spread the melted chocolate into a thin, even layer.

How to set chocolate: Refrigerate the toffee for 20 minutes to set the chocolate after spreading it.

How to melt remaining chocolate: Melt the remaining chopped chocolate in the microwave, in 10-second spurts, stirring after each until completely smooth.

How to set toffee: Refrigerate the toffee again for about 20 minutes to set the final layer of chocolate.

How to slice toffee: Once set, slice the toffee with a sharp knife or break it into pieces as large or small as desired.

How To Make Salted Dark Chocolate Almond Toffee

Each bite of this salted dark chocolate almond toffee is filled with intense dark chocolate flavor as well as the buttery taste of toasted almonds.

Preparation: 40 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Refrigerate Time: 50 minutes

Total: 2 hours

Serves:

Ingredients

2cupswhole unsalted almonds,(340 grams; 12 ounces)
1cupunsalted butter,(230 grams; 8 ounces), cubed
½cupwarm water,(120 milliliter; 4 ounces)
1cupgranulated sugar,(199 grams, 7 ounces)
1tspsalt
1tsplight corn syrup
8ozdark chocolate,(224 grams), finely chopped
sea salt,for sprinkling on top

Instructions

Preheat oven to 300 degrees F (149 degrees C) degrees. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Spread the almonds onto the sheet and bake for 15 minutes, stirring them around twice during that time. Remove from the oven, allow to cool, and set 1 cup aside.
Chop up the other cup of almonds nice and fine. Or pulse in a food processor a few times to break them up. These will go on top of the dark chocolate.
Line a 12×17-inch jelly roll pan with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper. Set aside.
Melt the cubed butter over medium heat in a 3-quart heavy-duty saucepan. Stir occasionally for about every 2 minutes with a wooden spoon as it melts.
Once melted, add the water, sugar, salt, and corn syrup. Stir constantly until the sugar dissolves, then brush down the sides of the pan with a water-moistened pastry brush.
Attach a candy thermometer to the pan. Do not let it touch the bottom of the pan.
Once dissolved, stir occasionally as you bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, stop stirring. Rapid bubbles, a thicker consistency, as well as a slightly darker color form around 235 degrees F (113 degrees C).
At 265 degrees F, stir in the 1 cup of toasted whole almonds. The mixture may separate when you add the nuts. If it does, temporarily remove the candy thermometer and stir vigorously until it all comes back together.
Carefully reattach the thermometer and brush off any candy on the side of the pan with the pastry brush. Cook and stir the candy until it reaches 290 degrees F.
Turn off the stove, remove the pan from the heat, and pour the toffee out onto the prepared jelly roll pan. Smooth into an even layer.
The toffee should be thick and not spread all the way to the edges of the jelly roll pan. Allow the toffee to cool for 5 minutes. Sprinkle half of the chopped chocolate on top.
Allow the chocolate to soften and melt from the heat of the toffee, then spread the melted chocolate into a thin, even layer.
Sprinkle half of the crushed almonds onto the wet chocolate and press down gently with the back of a spatula to adhere them. Refrigerate for 20 minutes to set the chocolate.
Once set, flip the toffee over as a whole. Melt the remaining chopped chocolate in the microwave, in 10-second spurts, stirring after each until completely smooth.
Spread over the toffee and top with remaining chopped almonds, pressing down gently with the back of a spatula to adhere them. Sprinkle the top with sea salt.
Refrigerate toffee again to set the chocolate for about 20 minutes. Once set, slice with a sharp knife or break into pieces, as large or small as you want.

Nutrition

Calories: 1358.47kcal
Fat: 105.90g
Saturated Fat: 45.75g
Trans Fat: 1.89g
Monounsaturated Fat: 41.74g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 11.25g
Carbohydrates: 92.82g
Fiber: 15.12g
Sugar: 68.01g
Protein: 20.02g
Cholesterol: 123.71mg
Sodium: 619.39mg
Calcium: 249.34mg
Potassium: 944.25mg
Iron: 9.44mg
Vitamin A: 389.30µg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Salted Dark Chocolate Almond Toffee

When making toffee, it's crucial to have a candy thermometer on hand. This tool ensures that the sugar mixture reaches the correct temperature for the perfect toffee consistency. If the mixture is not heated enough, the toffee may be too soft; if it's heated too much, it can become too hard and brittle. Also, remember to stir the mixture occasionally to prevent it from burning. When adding the almonds, stir vigorously to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the toffee.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Recipe

Preparation: Gather all ingredients and equipment before starting. This will help streamline the cooking process and prevent any last-minute scrambling.

Organization: Measure out and prepare all ingredients in advance to avoid any interruptions while cooking.

Multi-tasking: While the toffee is cooling, you can melt the chocolate to save time and make the process more efficient.

Chilling: Utilize the refrigerator to speed up the setting process for the toffee and chocolate layers.

Cutting: Use a sharp knife to slice the toffee into pieces, ensuring clean and precise cuts for a professional presentation.

Storage: Store the toffee in an airtight container to maintain its freshness and flavor for an extended period.

Substitute Ingredients For Salted Dark Chocolate Almond Toffee Recipe

unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can provide a similar richness and flavor to the toffee while also adding a hint of coconut flavor.
granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a healthier alternative with a slightly caramel-like flavor, adding depth to the toffee.
light corn syrup - Substitute with honey: Honey can be used as a natural sweetener and can add a subtle floral note to the toffee.
dark chocolate - Substitute with cocoa powder and coconut oil: A mixture of cocoa powder and coconut oil can be used to create a rich, chocolatey coating for the toffee.
sea salt - Substitute with Himalayan pink salt: Himalayan pink salt can provide a similar salty flavor and a touch of visual appeal to the toffee.

Essential Tools for Making Salted Dark Chocolate Almond Toffee

Oven: Preheat to 300 degrees F (149 degrees C) for toasting the almonds.
Baking sheet: Use to toast the almonds and to cool them.
Parchment paper or silicone baking mat: Line the baking sheet to prevent sticking.
Wooden spoon: Use to stir the toffee mixture while melting the butter.
3-quart heavy-duty saucepan: Melt the butter and cook the toffee mixture.
Candy thermometer: Attach to the pan to monitor the temperature of the toffee mixture.
Jelly roll pan: Line with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper to pour and cool the toffee.
Pastry brush: Use to brush down the sides of the pan with water to prevent crystallization.
Microwave: Use to melt the chocolate in 10-second spurts.
Sharp knife: Use to slice the toffee once the chocolate is set.

Storing and Freezing Your Homemade Toffee

Allow the toffee to cool completely before storing. If the toffee is still warm, it may stick together or become soggy.
Store the toffee in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
For longer storage, place the toffee in an airtight container or freezer bag and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
If freezing, thaw the toffee in the refrigerator overnight before bringing it to room temperature. This will help prevent condensation from forming on the chocolate and making it sticky.
To maintain the best texture and flavor, store the toffee in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and strong odors.
If the toffee becomes too hard or sticky over time, you can refresh it by placing it in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 3-5 minutes, then letting it cool completely before storing again.

Interesting Trivia About Salted Dark Chocolate Almond Toffee

Almonds are a great source of healthy fats, fiber, protein, magnesium, and vitamin E.

Is Making Salted Dark Chocolate Almond Toffee at Home Cost-Effective?

This salted dark chocolate almond toffee recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The use of almonds and dark chocolate may be slightly pricey, but the yield is substantial. The toffee's rich flavor and the indulgent combination of sweet and salty make it a delightful treat. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its taste and versatility. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20, making it a reasonable option for a special homemade dessert.

Is This Decadent Treat Healthy or Unhealthy?

This salted dark chocolate almond toffee recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:

The recipe is high in saturated fat due to the significant amount of butter used. Consuming too much saturated fat can increase the risk of heart disease and other health issues.
The toffee contains a large amount of sugar, which can contribute to weight gain, diabetes, and other metabolic disorders when consumed in excess.
Dark chocolate, while rich in antioxidants, is still high in calories and should be consumed in moderation.

However, there are some positive aspects to this recipe:

Almonds are a good source of healthy fats, protein, fiber, and various nutrients like vitamin E and magnesium.
Dark chocolate, when consumed in moderation, can provide some health benefits due to its antioxidant content.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of butter used in the toffee, or replace some of it with a healthier alternative like coconut oil.
Decrease the amount of sugar in the recipe, or experiment with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
Use a higher percentage of dark chocolate (70% or above) to increase the antioxidant content and reduce the sugar and fat content.
Increase the proportion of almonds to toffee and chocolate, as they are the healthiest component of the recipe.
Enjoy this treat in moderation, as part of a balanced diet, rather than consuming large quantities regularly.

Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Toffee Treat

As a culinary expert, I find this salted dark chocolate almond toffee recipe to be a delightful combination of sweet and salty flavors, with a satisfying crunch from the almonds. The detailed instructions ensure a successful outcome, and the addition of sea salt adds a sophisticated touch. The use of dark chocolate complements the toffee beautifully, creating a rich and indulgent treat. This recipe is sure to impress and is perfect for gifting or serving at special occasions.

Enhance Your Salted Dark Chocolate Almond Toffee Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of roasted garlic, perfect for balancing the sweetness of the toffee.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Tender asparagus grilled to perfection and topped with a zesty lemon zest, providing a refreshing contrast to the rich dark chocolate toffee.

Candied Bacon: Savory and sweet candied bacon, adding a delightful crunch and smoky flavor to complement the salted dark chocolate almond toffee.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love This Toffee

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: This creamy tomato basil soup is the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in. The combination of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy texture will warm you up from the inside out.

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Grilled lemon herb chicken is a light and flavorful dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue. The zesty lemon and aromatic herbs create a delicious marinade for the juicy chicken breasts.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Mango coconut chia pudding is a refreshing and healthy dessert option. The sweet mango and creamy coconut milk pair perfectly with the nutritious chia seeds, creating a delicious and guilt-free treat.

Appetizers and Main Dishes to Serve with Salted Dark Chocolate Almond Toffee

Appetizers:

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Combine creamy spinach and artichoke with a blend of cheeses for a rich and savory appetizer that pairs perfectly with crispy tortilla chips or warm bread.

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a flavorful filling using a mixture of breadcrumbs, herbs, and cheese to stuff into tender mushroom caps, then bake until golden and delicious.

Main Courses:

Grilled Salmon: Marinate the salmon in a zesty citrus and herb mixture for a burst of flavor. Grill to perfection and serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a healthy and satisfying meal.

Beef Stir Fry: Tender strips of beef stir-fried with colorful bell peppers and onions in a savory sauce. Serve over a bed of fluffy white rice for a delicious and filling dinner option.

Why trust this Salted Dark Chocolate Almond Toffee Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a perfect balance of flavors and textures, ensuring a delightful experience for your taste buds. The combination of dark chocolate, almonds, and a hint of sea salt creates a harmonious blend that will satisfy any sweet cravings. The detailed instructions and precise temperatures ensure a successful outcome, while the use of high-quality ingredients promises a delectable result. Trust in the expertise and passion behind this recipe to create a decadent and irresistible toffee that will impress even the most discerning palates.

Have you tried making this Salted Dark Chocolate Almond Toffee Recipe? Head over to the Baking and Desserts forum section to share your experience, ask questions, and discuss tips and tricks with fellow baking enthusiasts.

FAQ:

How long does it take to make salted dark chocolate almond toffee?

The entire process takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, including preparation, cooking, and cooling time.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, you can use salted butter, but you may want to reduce the amount of additional salt added to the toffee to balance the saltiness.

How should I store the salted dark chocolate almond toffee?

Store the toffee in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If the weather is warm, you can store it in the refrigerator to prevent the chocolate from melting.

Can I use milk or white chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk or white chocolate if you prefer. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.

Can I skip the step of toasting the almonds?

Toasting the almonds enhances their flavor, but if you're short on time, you can skip this step. However, toasting the almonds adds a delicious nutty flavor to the toffee.