Chewy Toffee Almond Bars

Chewy Toffee Almond Bars Recipe from England

Region / culture: England | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 36 bars

Introduction

Chewy Toffee Almond Bars are a delicious and indulgent treat that combines the rich flavors of toffee, almonds, and coconut in a chewy and satisfying bar. These bars are perfect for a sweet snack or dessert, and are sure to be a hit with friends and family.

History

The recipe for Chewy Toffee Almond Bars has been a favorite for many years, with its origins dating back to traditional toffee and almond desserts. The combination of buttery toffee, crunchy almonds, and sweet coconut creates a unique and irresistible flavor profile that has stood the test of time.

Ingredients

1 cup (2 sticks) softened butter
0.5 cup sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
1.75 cups (10 oz or 283 g) package of SKOR english toffee Bits or HEATH BITS ’O BRICKLE almond Toffee Bits
0.75 cup light corn syrup
1 cup sliced almonds, divided
0.75 cup MOUNDS sweetened coconut flakes, divided

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Grease the sides of a 13x9x2 inch baking pan.
In a mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar until fluffy.
Gradually add the flour, beating until well blended.
Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan.
Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until the edges are lightly browned.
Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan, combine the toffee bits and corn syrup.
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the toffee is melted (about 10 to 12 minutes).
Stir in 0.5 cup of almonds and 0.5 cup of coconut.
Spread the toffee mixture to within 0.25 inch of the edges of the crust.
Sprinkle the remaining 0.5 cup of almonds and remaining 0.25 cup of coconut over the top.
Bake for an additional 15 minutes or until bubbly.
Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Cut into bars.
Makes about 36 bars.

Variations

Substitute pecans or walnuts for the almonds.
Add chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over the top for a decadent twist.
Use different flavored toffee bits for a unique flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to grease the baking pan well to prevent the bars from sticking.

- Press the dough evenly into the pan to ensure even baking.

- Watch the toffee mixture carefully while cooking to prevent burning.

- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to ensure clean and neat slices.

Serving Suggestions

Chewy Toffee Almond Bars are perfect for serving as a dessert or snack with a cup of coffee or tea.

Cooking Techniques

Beating the butter and sugar until fluffy helps create a light and tender crust.

- Cooking the toffee mixture slowly and stirring constantly ensures a smooth and creamy texture.

- Sprinkling the almonds and coconut over the top adds a crunchy and flavorful topping.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use margarine or shortening instead of butter.

- Substitute honey or maple syrup for the corn syrup.

- Use shredded coconut instead of sweetened coconut flakes.

Make Ahead Tips

Chewy Toffee Almond Bars can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to a week.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the bars on a decorative platter and sprinkle with powdered sugar for a festive touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Chewy Toffee Almond Bars with a glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store Chewy Toffee Almond Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To reheat, place in the microwave for a few seconds until warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chewy Toffee Almond Bars contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chewy Toffee Almond Bars contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Chewy Toffee Almond Bars contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Chewy Toffee Almond Bars contains approximately 2 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Chewy Toffee Almond Bars are a good source of calcium, iron, and vitamin E.

Alergens

Chewy Toffee Almond Bars contain dairy, nuts, and gluten.

Summary

Chewy Toffee Almond Bars are a delicious treat that is relatively high in carbohydrates and fats, but also provides some protein and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Chewy Toffee Almond Bars are a delightful and indulgent treat that combines the rich flavors of toffee, almonds, and coconut in a chewy and satisfying bar. Perfect for a sweet snack or dessert, these bars are sure to be a hit with friends and family.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory like a beautiful piece of artwork. It was a sunny day in the early summer of 1965, and I had decided to visit an old friend who lived in a quaint little village on the outskirts of town. As soon as I walked into her cozy kitchen, I was greeted by the most amazing aroma of freshly baked goodies.

My friend, Mrs. Jenkins, was busy bustling about the kitchen, pulling out trays of delicious looking treats from the oven. She had a warm smile on her face as she saw me and beckoned me over to the kitchen counter.

"Darling, you simply must try these Chewy Toffee Almond Bars," she exclaimed, holding out a plate of golden brown squares that were oozing with caramel and studded with crunchy almonds. "They are simply divine."

I took a bite of one of the bars and was immediately transported to a world of pure bliss. The chewy texture of the toffee, the crunch of the almonds, and the rich caramel flavor all melded together in perfect harmony. I knew right then and there that I had to have the recipe.

Mrs. Jenkins saw the look of delight on my face and chuckled. "I got this recipe from my dear friend Martha, who lives in a small town up north. She's a master baker and has been kind enough to share some of her most cherished recipes with me."

I begged Mrs. Jenkins to share the recipe with me, and she obliged with a twinkle in her eye. As she recited the ingredients and instructions, I furiously scribbled them down in my trusty old recipe notebook. I couldn't wait to get home and try my hand at making these delectable bars.

The next day, I gathered all the necessary ingredients and set to work in my own kitchen. The house filled with the heavenly scent of caramel and almonds as the bars baked in the oven. When they were finally done, I couldn't wait to sink my teeth into one.

The first bite took me back to Mrs. Jenkins' kitchen, where I had first tasted these amazing Chewy Toffee Almond Bars. The combination of sweet toffee, crunchy almonds, and gooey caramel was simply irresistible. I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own collection.

Over the years, I have made these Chewy Toffee Almond Bars countless times, sharing them with friends and family who have all raved about how delicious they are. Each time I make them, I am reminded of that sunny day in Mrs. Jenkins' kitchen and the joy of discovering a new and wonderful recipe.

I have since passed this recipe down to my own children and grandchildren, who have all fallen in love with these Chewy Toffee Almond Bars. It warms my heart to see them enjoying something that has brought me so much joy over the years.

As I sit here now, surrounded by my family and the delicious aroma of freshly baked treats, I can't help but feel grateful for the serendipitous moment that led me to discover this recipe. It is a reminder of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories. And for that, I am truly thankful.