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This churro toffee transforms the beloved cinnamon-sugar Mexican treat into a crunchy, buttery confection that disappears within minutes at every gathering. The combination of rich toffee base with white chocolate and that signature cinnamon sugar topping creates an irresistible dessert that tastes exactly like the real thing.
I first made this churro toffee after visiting Disneyland where they sell something similar. My version quickly became our family's most requested treat for movie nights and holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
- Unsalted butter: Provides the rich base for our toffee, use high quality for best flavor
- Granulated sugar: Creates the perfect caramelization and sweetness
- Kosher salt: Enhances all flavors and balances the sweetness
- Vanilla extract: Adds depth and warmth
- Ghirardelli White Chocolate Wafers: Melt beautifully, look for real cocoa butter in the ingredients
- Cinnamon sugar blend: The signature churro flavor, use a 2:1 ratio of sugar to cinnamon
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Your Workspace:
- Line a 15×10-inch baking sheet with parchment paper ensuring it extends over the edges for easy removal later. Have your ingredients measured and ready as toffee making moves quickly once started.
- Create The Toffee Base:
- Combine butter, sugar, and salt in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously with a wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula. Watch as the butter melts completely and the mixture begins to boil. Keep stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Monitor The Color Change:
- Continue stirring as the mixture bubbles and changes color. This is the most critical step. You're looking for that perfect raw almond color which indicates the sugar has caramelized properly. This typically takes 5-8 minutes depending on your stove. Remove from heat immediately when you reach this color.
- Add Vanilla And Pour:
- Quickly stir in the vanilla extract which will cause a momentary sizzle and release amazing aroma. Immediately pour the hot toffee onto your prepared baking sheet. Work fast as the mixture begins hardening quickly.
- Spread And Level:
- Use an offset spatula to spread the toffee to your desired thickness. For thinner, crispier toffee spread it out more. For chunkier pieces keep it somewhat thicker. Either way works beautifully.
- Add White Chocolate Layer:
- Place Ghirardelli white chocolate wafers in a microwave-safe bowl and heat for one minute. Stir until completely smooth and melted. Pour this over your still-warm toffee and use your spatula to spread it evenly across the surface.
- Apply Cinnamon Sugar:
- While the white chocolate is still warm, generously sprinkle your cinnamon sugar mixture across the entire surface. The warmth of the chocolate will help it adhere perfectly creating that authentic churro flavor.
- Allow To Set:
- Let your toffee cool completely at room temperature until the chocolate has hardened. This typically takes 1-2 hours depending on your kitchen temperature. Patience produces perfect results.
- Break And Enjoy:
- Once fully set, break the toffee into irregular pieces using your hands or a knife. The rustic appearance is part of its charm.
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The secret to perfect toffee is constant stirring. I learned this from my grandmother who made toffee every Christmas. She would tell me stories about how her mother taught her the technique while I stood at the stove learning to recognize that perfect caramel color.
Storage Tips
Your churro toffee will stay fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. While refrigeration isn't necessary, it can extend freshness in warmer climates. The toffee actually develops a deeper flavor after a day or two of resting.
Troubleshooting Guide
If your toffee turns out grainy, it likely crystallized during cooking. This happens when sugar crystals form. Next time, avoid scraping down the sides of the pan and maintain steady heat throughout. If your white chocolate seizes, try adding a teaspoon of vegetable oil and reheating gently. The toffee is done when it reaches that raw almond color rather than a specific temperature making this recipe accessible for novice candy makers.
Creative Variations
Consider adding a layer of dark chocolate between the toffee and white chocolate for a more complex flavor profile. For a nutty version, sprinkle chopped toasted almonds or pecans onto the toffee before pouring the white chocolate. During fall, try adding a pinch of pumpkin pie spice to your cinnamon sugar mixture for a seasonal twist. The versatility of this recipe makes it perfect for customizing to your taste preferences.
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This churro toffee is an impressive treat that's simple enough for novice candy makers but indulgent enough to wow your loved ones. Enjoy every crunchy, cinnamon-kissed bite!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I avoid burning the toffee?
Keep stirring constantly and watch the color change. Remove from heat when it reaches a light caramel or raw almond color.
- → Can I use dark chocolate instead of white chocolate?
Yes, dark chocolate works well as a substitute and adds a rich, bittersweet flavor to the toffee.
- → What’s the best way to achieve smooth melted chocolate?
Microwave the chocolate wafers in short bursts, stirring frequently, to ensure a smooth and even consistency.
- → How can I store churro toffee?
Store the toffee in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks to maintain its freshness and crunch.
- → Can I adjust the cinnamon sugar ratio?
Absolutely! Feel free to increase or decrease the cinnamon sugar blend to match your preference for sweetness and spice.