Vegan Toffee Chocolate Bars

This homemade vegan toffee is rich sweet and buttery yet made with simple plant-based swaps. It is perfect for gifting during the holidays or just for treating yourself to a nostalgic candy moment minus the dairy.

I whipped this up for a holiday cookie swap last year and it was the first plate to disappear. Now my sister asks for a batch every December and I cannot say no.

Ingredients

• Sugar or erythritol: gives classic sweetness and that authentic toffee snap Opt for organic cane sugar if possible for best texture
• Plant based butter: ensures a melt-in-your-mouth buttery taste Look for stick-style vegan butter for best results
• Water: helps the sugar dissolve evenly and aids in caramelization
• Salt: balances the sweetness and highlights the butterscotch flavor Use sea salt for more flavor
• Pure vanilla extract (optional): adds a hint of warmth and rounds out the flavors Pure vanilla is worth the splurge if you have it
• Chocolate chips (optional): create that classic toffee bar finish Use a dairy-free chocolate you love eating straight from the bag
• Chopped walnuts or pretzels or toppings of choice: add crunch and balance the toffee Choose fresh nuts for best flavor or try flaky salt for a modern twist

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Pan:

Line either a sheet pan or an eight inch square pan with parchment paper pressing it into the corners This prevents sticking and makes it easy to remove the toffee later

Make the Toffee Base:

Combine sugar salt water and plant based butter in a heavy bottomed saucepan Set the pan over low to medium heat and stir gently with a heatproof spatula The sugar and butter should melt together smoothly

Cook to Caramelization:

Continue stirring constantly as the mixture begins to bubble and thicken The color should shift to a golden brown after about eight to ten minutes If you have a candy thermometer wait until it reaches three hundred degrees Fahrenheit or one hundred forty nine degrees Celsius

Add Vanilla and Pour:

Turn off the heat and stir in vanilla extract if using Pour the hot toffee mixture into your prepared pan Immediately smooth it into an even layer using a spatula because it sets quickly

Top with Chocolate and Add Crunch:

If using chocolate chips sprinkle them evenly over the toffee while it is hot Let sit until melted then spread the chocolate into a smooth layer Add your choice of toppings like walnuts or pretzels pressing in gently

Set and Break:

Let the toffee cool at room temperature until fully set This usually takes about two hours but overnight is even better Once hardened break into bite-size bars or shards

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My favorite part is using walnuts as my family always did My grandmother used to press them into the top with her knuckle and now I do too Just smelling this candy as it sets brings back memories of her kitchen during the holidays

Storage Tips

Store vegan toffee in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks For longer storage keep it in the freezer where it can last for a couple of months It is important to keep toffee dry as humidity will make it sticky

Ingredient Substitutions

Coconut oil can stand in for vegan butter in a pinch but the flavor will be different Maple syrup is not a good substitute for sugar here as toffee relies on granulated sugar to reach the right hardness Gluten free pretzels make great toppings if needed

Serving Suggestions

Wrap toffee pieces in wax paper for easy gifting Pair with coffee or tea for a sweet pick me up I also love chopping it up and stirring it into vegan ice cream or sprinkling it over brownies

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Vegan Toffee Traditions

Toffee has long been a classic treat at winter celebrations in the UK and US This plant based version can be enjoyed by everyone at your table whether vegan or not My mom used to hide a batch away just for herself and I always understood why

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use other plant-based butters?

Yes, any store-bought or homemade vegan butter can be used. Choose one with a rich flavor for best results.

→ How do I stop the toffee from separating?

Stir constantly over gentle heat, making sure not to rush the process, which helps maintain a smooth consistency.

→ What toppings pair well with vegan toffee?

Chopped walnuts, pretzels, pecans, or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt all add great texture and taste.

→ How should the finished bars be stored?

Keep your toffee in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze for extended freshness.

→ Can I make toffee without a candy thermometer?

Yes, watch for a golden brown color and thickening texture. A candy thermometer simply provides extra precision.