Imagine sinking your teeth into a decadent treat that combines the rich, buttery crunch of toffee with the smooth, indulgent embrace of melted chocolate. These aren't just any ordinary dessert bars - these are Aunt Traci's Toffee Bars, a mouthwatering recipe that has been tantalizing taste buds and creating sweet memories for generations. With just a few simple ingredients and some baking magic, you'll transform basic pantry staples into a dessert so irresistible, your family and friends will be begging for the recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 16 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chopped nuts
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your toffee bars bake evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.
- Prepare a 9x13 inch baking pan by greasing it lightly with butter or lining it with parchment paper. This will help prevent the bars from sticking and make for easier removal once they are baked.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter and 1 cup of brown sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Gradually add in 1 cup of all-purpose flour to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix. The batter should be thick and slightly crumbly.
- Fold in 1 cup of chopped nuts of your choice (such as pecans, walnuts, or almonds) into the batter. This will add a delightful crunch to your toffee bars.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan, using a spatula to smooth the surface. Make sure the batter reaches all corners of the pan for even baking.
- Bake the batter in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and the center is set. Keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking.
- While the base is baking, melt 1 cup of chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
- Once the base is done baking, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the melted chocolate over the top. Use a spatula to spread the chocolate evenly across the surface.
- Allow the chocolate to set for a few minutes, then sprinkle any additional chopped nuts on top if desired, pressing them gently into the melted chocolate.
- Let the bars cool in the pan at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Then, transfer the pan to the refrigerator for an additional 30 minutes to help the chocolate firm up.
- Once the chocolate is set, remove the bars from the pan using the parchment paper (if used) or by carefully lifting them out. Cut into 16 equal bars using a sharp knife.
- Store the toffee bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for longer freshness. Enjoy your delicious Aunt Traci's Toffee Bars!
Tips
- Use room temperature butter for the smoothest, most even mixture when creaming with brown sugar.
- Don't overmix the flour - a few crumbles in the batter will ensure a tender texture.
- For extra flavor, try toasting your nuts before adding them to the batter.
- Use high-quality chocolate chips for the most luxurious topping.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to get clean, crisp edges.
- For a gourmet twist, try using different nut varieties or adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the chocolate.
- These bars freeze wonderfully - wrap them tightly and enjoy for up to 3 months!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 40mg
