Recipe: Classic English Toffee

1 cup unsalted butter (the real stuff! Oh, and you can use salted, just omit the added salt)

1 cup sugar (the real stuff!)

1/8 tsp salt (optional)

2 tsp water

1 tsp vanilla

salted nuts (optional), chopped

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Melt butter on low heat, then add sugar and water. Using a candy thermometer, cook mixture on med-low until candy reaches 300 degrees (hard crack), occasionally giving the mix a stir. While you are waiting for the candy to reach this temperature, sprinkle a piece of parchment with the salted mixed nuts. Measure out chocolate chips and have them ready to sprinkle onto the hot toffee.

When toffee mix reaches 300, pour over nuts. Sprinkle surface with chocolate chips and let sit for about five minutes. With a spatula, smooth the chips as if frosting the toffee. Let toffee cool completely.

Note: There are so many variations of this classic toffee recipe. Please try them all. Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top. Use white chocolate instead of semi-sweet, sliced almonds instead of salted nuts. . . The possibilities are endless.

Question4U: What holiday recipe is a must-make in your household?

Happy Holidays!

S. Dionne Moore