Honeycomb Toffee Crunch

Honeycomb Toffee Crunch, also known as cinder toffee or sponge candy, is a deliciously airy and crunchy confection that boasts a caramelized sweetness and unique honeycomb texture. Perfect as a sweet treat or as a delightful homemade gift, this candy requires only a handful of ingredients and minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this treat is perfect for spontaneous cravings.

• Minimal Ingredients: Requires just a few basic ingredients found in most kitchens.

• Impressive Texture: Delightfully crisp and airy, the distinctive texture sets it apart from regular candy.

• Versatile Use: Delicious on its own, crushed over ice cream, or dipped in chocolate for extra indulgence.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Granulated sugar

• Golden syrup or honey

• Baking soda

• Water

Directions

1. Prepare the Tray: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

2. Combine Ingredients: In a heavy-bottom saucepan, combine sugar, golden syrup (or honey), and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring gently until sugar dissolves completely.

3. Cook the Syrup: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then continue cooking without stirring until it reaches a golden amber color or approximately 300°F (150°C) on a candy thermometer.

4. Add Baking Soda: Immediately remove from heat, quickly stir in baking soda, and mix vigorously. The mixture will rapidly expand and become foamy.

5. Pour and Set: Immediately pour the foamy mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Avoid spreading or touching to maintain air bubbles. Let cool completely until hardened.

6. Break into Pieces: Once cooled, break the honeycomb into bite-sized pieces.

Servings and timing

• Servings: Approximately 8 servings

• Preparation Time: 5 minutes

• Cooking Time: 10 minutes

• Cooling Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate-Dipped: Dip cooled honeycomb pieces into melted dark, milk, or white chocolate.

• Salted Toffee: Sprinkle sea salt immediately after pouring the mixture onto the baking sheet for a sweet and salty flavor.

• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts such as almonds or pecans onto the toffee before it sets.

• Vanilla Flavor: Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract right after adding baking soda for extra fragrance.

storage/reheating

Storage:

Store the honeycomb toffee in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Avoid exposure to moisture as it softens quickly.

Reheating:

Honeycomb toffee does not reheat well due to its texture. It’s best enjoyed freshly made or at room temperature.

FAQs

What is Honeycomb Toffee made of?

Honeycomb toffee typically consists of sugar, golden syrup or honey, baking soda, and water.

Why did my honeycomb turn chewy instead of crunchy?

Moisture or improper cooking temperature usually results in a chewy texture. Ensure your syrup reaches the correct temperature (300°F/150°C) and avoid humidity when cooling.

Can I use honey instead of golden syrup?

Yes, honey can substitute golden syrup, but it will slightly change the flavor and color, giving it a richer taste.

How do I prevent my honeycomb from collapsing?

Ensure quick and thorough mixing of baking soda and immediate pouring onto the tray without disturbing the mixture after pouring.

How long does homemade honeycomb last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, honeycomb lasts up to one week at room temperature.

Can I freeze honeycomb toffee?

It’s not recommended as freezing often causes it to lose its crispness upon thawing.

Is it necessary to use a candy thermometer?

A candy thermometer is highly recommended to achieve consistent results, although you can visually gauge when the syrup turns amber.

What can I do with leftover honeycomb?

Crush it as a topping for ice cream, cakes, cupcakes, or blend into milkshakes.

Is Honeycomb Toffee gluten-free?

Yes, traditional honeycomb toffee made with sugar, honey/syrup, water, and baking soda is naturally gluten-free.

Why does baking soda create bubbles in the toffee?

Baking soda reacts with the hot syrup, releasing carbon dioxide gas, which creates the characteristic bubbles and airy texture.

Conclusion

Honeycomb Toffee Crunch is a delightful candy perfect for anyone seeking a sweet treat that is easy to prepare yet impressive in presentation. Its uniquely crunchy texture and rich caramel flavor make it an irresistible homemade confection to enjoy and share with others.