3 Ingredient Toffee

If you’re looking for a dangerously easy, melt-in-your-mouth kind of treat, let me introduce you to the magic that is 3 Ingredient Toffee. Yep—only three ingredients, but the flavor? Buttery, rich, perfectly sweet, and just the right amount of crunch. It’s one of those recipes that feels fancy (like something you’d find in a cute tin during the holidays), but it’s secretly super simple and quick to make. Whether you’re gifting it, snacking on it straight from the fridge, or sneaking pieces after dinner, trust me—you’re gonna be hooked.

Why You’ll Love 3 Ingredient Toffee

Unbelievably Simple: Three ingredients and less than 20 minutes of active time. That’s it.
Perfectly Crunchy & Buttery: The texture is crisp but melts in your mouth, with deep caramel flavor and a snap you’ll love.
Great for Gifting: Wrap it up in little bags or tins and you’ve got a homemade gift that everyone will rave about.
Endlessly Customizable: Want to top it with chocolate or nuts? Go wild! But it’s amazing just as it is.
Impressively Addictive: You’ve been warned—one bite turns into five real quick.

Ingredients in 3 Ingredient Toffee

It’s almost shocking how these three pantry staples create such a decadent treat.

Butter: Unsalted and rich, it forms the base of the toffee and gives it that deep, golden flavor.
Granulated Sugar: Melts into a gorgeous caramel that crisps up perfectly when cooled.
Saltine Crackers or Graham Crackers: Yep, this is the secret! They form a crispy base and soak up that sweet, buttery goodness.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are listed in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Preheat Your Oven: Set it to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and spray lightly with nonstick spray.
Layer the Crackers: Arrange saltines (or graham crackers) in a single layer to cover the pan completely.
Make the Toffee Base: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and sugar together. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly, and let it bubble for 3–4 minutes until thick and golden.
Pour and Spread: Immediately pour the hot toffee mixture over the crackers, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
Bake: Pop it in the oven for 5–7 minutes. The toffee will bubble up—this is where the magic happens.
Cool Completely: Let it cool at room temperature until set, or speed it up in the fridge.
Break Into Pieces: Once hardened, break the toffee into shards and try not to eat it all in one sitting.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 16 pieces
Calories: 140
Total Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 95mg
Total Carbohydrates: 17g
Sugars: 14g
Protein: 0.5g
Calcium: 2% DV
Iron: 2% DV

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Cool Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve 3 Ingredient Toffee

Classic Treat Plate: Add to a holiday dessert spread alongside cookies and fudge.
With Coffee or Tea: That sweet-salty crunch pairs beautifully with a warm drink.
Gift It: Wrap in wax paper and pop into a cute tin or bag with a ribbon.
Crumbled on Ice Cream: Break it into smaller pieces and sprinkle over vanilla or chocolate ice cream.
Snack On It Straight Up: Honestly, no enhancements needed—it’s that good.

Additional Tips

Stir Constantly: While the butter and sugar boil, keep stirring to prevent burning.
Use a Candy Thermometer (Optional): If you want to be precise, cook the toffee mixture to 300°F (hard crack stage).
Top It Off: While it’s hot, sprinkle chocolate chips or chopped nuts on top. Let the chips melt, then spread for a chocolaty layer.
Let It Cool Fully: Be patient—if it’s not fully cooled, it won’t snap cleanly.
Store Smart: Keep in an airtight container at room temp or in the fridge for longer freshness.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?
A1: You can! It adds a deeper molasses flavor and a slightly softer texture.

Q2: Do I have to use saltines?
A2: Not at all—graham crackers, Ritz, or even matzo all work great.

Q3: Can I add chocolate?
A3: Yes! Sprinkle chocolate chips over the hot toffee after baking, let melt, then spread.

Q4: How long does it last?
A4: Up to 2 weeks in an airtight container—though it rarely lasts that long!

Q5: Can I freeze it?
A5: Absolutely. Wrap tightly and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Q6: Why didn’t my toffee harden?
A6: It may not have cooked long enough. Make sure it reaches a boil and thickens properly.

Q7: Can I double the recipe?
A7: Yes, just use a larger pan or two baking sheets.

Q8: Can I make this dairy-free?
A8: Try using plant-based butter, but results may vary slightly in texture.

Q9: Is this safe for kids to make?
A9: It’s a fun recipe for kids to help with, but an adult should handle the hot sugar mixture.

Q10: Can I add sea salt on top?
A10: Yes! A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top adds an amazing sweet-savory finish.

Conclusion

This 3 Ingredient Toffee is proof that simple is spectacular. With just a few basics and hardly any time, you can create a buttery, crunchy treat that’s perfect for any occasion—or no occasion at all. It’s sweet, satisfying, and the kind of snack that makes you feel like a total kitchen rockstar without even trying. So grab that butter and sugar, and let’s make toffee magic happen.

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