Toffee bark is the holiday treat that always disappears first from the cookie platter. With its buttery crunch, rich chocolate layer, and a sprinkling of festive toppings, this treat feels both nostalgic and luxurious. It’s perfect for gifting, snacking, or bringing to your next holiday gathering.
This irresistible Christmas toffee bark combines simple ingredients in a way that delivers maximum flavor. It’s a no-fuss, oven-free recipe that sets quickly, making it ideal for busy holiday schedules. Whether you’re wrapping it up as edible gifts or sneaking a piece after dinner, this bark hits all the sweet notes.
What Kind of Chocolate Should I Use?
Use a high-quality semi-sweet or dark chocolate for the best results. Chocolate chips work in a pinch, but bars or melting wafers will give you a smoother finish. For a flavor twist, try white chocolate or even a layer of peanut butter chips beneath the chocolate.
Ingredients for the Irresistible Christmas Toffee Bark
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (or almonds)
- 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies or holiday sprinkles (optional)
How To Make the Irresistible Christmas Toffee Bark
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will keep the toffee from sticking and make it easier to break later.
Step 2: Make the Toffee
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine butter, sugar, and salt. Stir constantly as the butter melts and the sugar dissolves. Once it starts bubbling, continue stirring until it reaches a golden caramel color (about 10 minutes or 300°F on a candy thermometer).
Step 3: Spread and Set
Quickly pour the hot toffee onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it out with a spatula to about 1/4-inch thick. Let it sit for 1-2 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Chocolate
Sprinkle chocolate chips over the hot toffee. Let them sit for a minute to soften, then spread the melted chocolate evenly with a spatula.
Step 5: Top and Cool
Sprinkle chopped nuts and any festive toppings over the melted chocolate. Let the bark cool at room temperature for several hours or refrigerate for faster setting.
Step 6: Break Into Pieces
Once fully set, break the bark into bite-sized pieces using your hands or a sharp knife.
How to Serve and Store Christmas Toffee Bark
Serve it on a festive holiday platter or package it in cellophane bags tied with ribbon for homemade gifts. Store the bark in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks or freeze it for longer storage.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to set?
Usually, it sets in about 2 hours at room temperature, or 30 minutes in the fridge.
Can I use brown sugar instead of white?
Yes, brown sugar adds a deeper molasses flavor. Just keep an eye on the color so it doesn’t overcook.
What if I don’t have a candy thermometer?
Look for a deep golden color and a nutty aroma; that’s usually a good sign it’s ready.
Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but omit the extra salt in the recipe.
Is this gluten-free?
Yes! Just make sure any toppings you use are certified gluten-free.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Use a larger baking sheet or two to keep the toffee layer thin.
Want More Holiday Treat Ideas?
If you love this irresistible Christmas toffee bark, you’ll enjoy these festive favorites:
- Peppermint Bark Recipe for a cool minty crunch.
- Irresistible Pecan Pie Bites for bite-sized indulgence.
- Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake for a rich, fruity twist.
- Sopapilla Cheesecake Bars for a cinnamon-sugar layered delight.
- Cinnamon Donut Bread for a cozy treat with morning coffee.
Save This Pin + Share Your Results
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest holiday treats board so you can find it again in a snap.
And I’d love to hear how yours turned out! Did you stick to the classic or switch up the toppings? Add a sprinkle of sea salt or go all-out peppermint?
Comment below and let’s keep the sweet ideas flowing. For more easy and festive desserts, follow me on Pinterest: Nina Dishes
Irresistible Christmas Toffee Bark
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 20 pieces
Description
A festive holiday treat with a buttery toffee base, rich chocolate topping, and crunchy, colorful toppings. Quick to make, easy to store, and perfect for gifting.
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter
1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies or holiday sprinkles
Instructions
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. In a saucepan, melt butter with sugar and salt over medium heat. Stir constantly.
3. Continue stirring until mixture reaches a golden caramel color or 300°F.
4. Pour the hot toffee onto the baking sheet and spread it evenly to 1/4 inch thick.
5. Let sit for 1–2 minutes, then sprinkle chocolate chips over the hot toffee.
6. Once chips soften, spread into a smooth layer.
7. Sprinkle with chopped nuts and crushed candies or sprinkles.
8. Cool completely at room temperature or in the fridge.
9. Break into bite-sized pieces and serve or store.
Notes
Use a candy thermometer for accuracy to avoid burnt toffee.
Customize toppings with sea salt, dried fruit, or crushed cookies.
Store in layers separated by parchment to prevent sticking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Christmas bark, holiday candy, chocolate toffee
