Almond Roca is a delightful treat that combines rich toffee, smooth chocolate, and crunchy almonds. This classic candy is not only a favorite during the holidays but also makes a thoughtful gift for any special occasion. With its buttery toffee base and a chocolatey finish, Almond Roca is a sweet indulgence that brings joy with each bite.
What You’ll Need for Almond Roca Recipe
To bring this delicious Almond Roca to life, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (225 g)
- 1/2 cup sugar (100 g)
- 1 cup chocolate chips (175 g)
- 1 cup chopped toasted almonds (divided, 125 g)
Step-by-Step Almond Roca Recipe
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Prepare Your Pan: Start by lining an 8×8 or 9×9 square pan with parchment paper. This will help you easily remove the finished almond roca later. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of the chopped almonds evenly across the bottom of the lined pan.
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Melt Butter and Sugar: In a small heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the unsalted butter and sugar. Heat over low heat, stirring continuously until the butter has melted and the sugar is fully dissolved.
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Cook to Hard Crack Stage: Once the mixture begins to bubble, insert a candy thermometer into the saucepan. Keep stirring frequently as the mixture cooks. You want it to reach the hard crack stage at 300°F (150°C). This usually takes a few minutes, so be patient!
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Pour into the Pan: When your mixture reaches 300°F, remove it from heat immediately. Continue stirring it for a moment, then carefully pour the hot toffee mixture over the layer of chopped almonds in your prepared pan. Be cautious, as the toffee will be very hot!
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Let It Sit: Allow the toffee to sit for about 5 minutes to cool slightly, but don’t let it harden completely yet.
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Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt your chocolate chips in 30-second intervals until smooth and fully melted. Stir between intervals to avoid burning the chocolate.
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Spread and Top: Once the chocolate is melted, gently spread it over the warm toffee layer. Top it with the remaining 1/2 cup of chopped toasted almonds, sprinkling evenly over the chocolate.
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Cool and Set: Refrigerate the pan for at least 2 hours or until the Almond Roca has fully set.
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Slice and Serve: Take the set candy out of the pan using the parchment paper for easy removal. Slice into pieces and enjoy!
How to Serve Almond Roca
Almond Roca is perfect for serving during gatherings or as an after-dinner treat. To elevate your presentation, cut the candy into small squares and place them in a decorative box or on a pretty platter. You can also pair Almond Roca with coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat. It makes an excellent gift too—just wrap it in cellophane and tie it with a ribbon for a lovely presentation.
Expert Tips for Almond Roca
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Chop Your Almonds: For the best texture, make sure to chop your toasted almonds into small pieces. This way, they’ll distribute evenly throughout the toffee and chocolate.
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Candy Thermometer: If you don’t have a candy thermometer, you can test the toffee by dropping a bit into cold water; if it forms hard, brittle threads, it’s ready. But using a thermometer is the best way to ensure accuracy.
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Try Different Nuts: While almonds are traditional, you can experiment with other nuts like pecans or walnuts for a different flavor profile.
Almond Roca FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
You can use salted butter, but it will change the flavor slightly. Unsalted butter is recommended for precise control over sweetness.
How can I store leftover Almond Roca?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Avoid refrigeration, as it can cause the chocolate to sweat.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe. Just make sure to use a larger pan and adjust the cooking time as needed if you’re using a thicker layer of toffee.
Almond Roca is a delightful treat that’s sure to impress. I encourage you to try making this easy and delicious candy at home—your taste buds will thank you! Happy cooking!