Honeycomb Toffee | Cinder Toffee Recipe
Description
Honeycomb Toffee, also known by several other names such as Angel Food, Hokey Pokey, Sponge Toffee, or Sea Mist Candy, is a delightful treat that combines a crispy, crunchy texture with a light and airy interior. With its brittle crust that breaks easily, this simple candy is a perfect gift idea or a fun treat to enjoy bite after bite. Its surprisingly easy preparation and irresistible texture make it an ideal addition to any dessert platter, and it pairs wonderfully with a variety of beverages.
Cuisine
Indian
Course
Dessert
Diet
Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cane sugar | 1 cup |
| Corn syrup (or golden syrup) | 4 tablespoons |
| Water | 3 tablespoons |
| Baking soda | 1-1/2 teaspoons |
Preparation Time
10 minutes
Cooking Time
10 minutes
Instructions
To prepare Honeycomb Toffee (or Cinder Toffee), you’ll need to have all your ingredients prepped and ready, as this is a quick recipe that requires some fast action. Start by greasing a sheet of parchment paper and lining a baking pan with it. This will prevent the candy from sticking and ensure easy removal once it’s ready.
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Prepare the Sugar Mixture: In a large saucepan, combine the cane sugar, corn syrup (or golden syrup), and water. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely, ensuring all the ingredients are evenly mixed.
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Melt the Sugar: Place the saucepan over high heat. Allow the sugar mixture to melt, but avoid stirring at this stage. You can gently swirl the pan occasionally to make sure the sugar doesn’t stick to the sides of the pan. Keep a close eye on the mixture as it heats up.
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Monitor the Temperature: Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature of the sugar mixture. Once it reaches 300°F (approximately 4 minutes and 50 seconds), remove the saucepan from the heat immediately. This temperature is crucial for achieving the perfect crunchy texture of the toffee.
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Add the Baking Soda: Here’s where the magic happens! Quickly add the baking soda to the hot sugar mixture, and whisk vigorously with a wooden spoon for about 30 turns. The mixture will start to bubble up dramatically, almost tripling in volume. You’ll notice the color turning a beautiful amber as the baking soda reacts with the sugar.
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Set the Toffee: Pour the bubbly, foamy mixture onto your prepared baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spread it out gently, but don’t touch it too much. Let it set at room temperature for about 2 hours to harden and cool completely.
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Break the Toffee: Once your toffee has set, it’s time to break it into pieces. You can do this by using a kitchen hammer or a heavy spoon to crack the brittle into bite-sized chunks.
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Storage and Serving: Store the broken honeycomb toffee in an airtight jar to keep it fresh. Be sure to keep it away from moisture to prevent it from becoming sticky. Serve it as a snack on its own, or dip the pieces in warm chocolate ganache for an indulgent treat.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains sugar and corn syrup, which are both common sweeteners. It does not contain dairy, nuts, or gluten, making it suitable for those following a vegetarian or gluten-free diet. However, if you plan to dip the toffee in chocolate ganache, be mindful of potential allergens in the chocolate, such as dairy.
Dietary Preferences
- Vegetarian: Yes, this recipe is entirely vegetarian, as it contains no animal-derived products.
- Gluten-Free: The ingredients in this recipe do not contain gluten, making it a safe treat for those with gluten sensitivities. However, check that the syrup used does not contain any hidden gluten.
- Vegan-Friendly Option: If you wish to make this recipe vegan, simply ensure that the chocolate ganache used for dipping is dairy-free.
Tips & Advice
- Temperature Accuracy: It’s essential to reach the correct temperature of 300°F. If you don’t have a candy thermometer, it’s best to invest in one, as it will help ensure the toffee achieves the correct texture. If the temperature is too low, the toffee may not harden properly.
- Baking Soda Reaction: Once you add the baking soda, work quickly! The toffee will bubble and rise quickly, so it’s important to whisk vigorously to avoid lumps and to ensure the mixture is properly aerated.
- Creative Variations: For an extra touch, you can dip the toffee pieces in melted chocolate, or sprinkle them with a pinch of sea salt to add a contrast of flavors.
- Gift Idea: Honeycomb toffee makes a lovely homemade gift. Wrap pieces in cellophane bags or boxes for a charming and delicious present.
Conclusion
Honeycomb Toffee, with its crisp, crunchy texture and airy interior, is a simple yet incredibly satisfying treat that’s perfect for sharing, gifting, or indulging in a moment of sweet bliss. The process is quick, and the ingredients are easy to find, making it a great option for both beginners and seasoned candy makers. With just a few ingredients and some careful attention to temperature, you can create this delightful treat in no time. Whether you enjoy it on its own or paired with a warm beverage, this Cinder Toffee will undoubtedly satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you coming back for more. Enjoy!
