Don't wait for the holidays to make this delicious treat. It's the perfect go to treat with pecans and milk chocolate. It's easy to make, so make it often.
1 c. coarsely chopped pecans
1 c. (2 sticks) unsalted butter
1 c. granulated sugar
1/2 t. kosher salt
1 t. vanilla extract
1 c. milk chocolate chips
Spray a 9x9 inch baking dish with cooking spray; line with parchment paper.
Spread chopped pecans in a single layer on top of the parchment paper.
Add butter, sugar and salt to a heavy bottomed 3 quart pot; bring to a boil over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to dissolve the sugar. Once candy is boiling, stir occasionally, slowly and evenly, until candy has reached 290 degrees F to 300 degrees F, or "hard crack" on a candy thermometer.
Once candy has reached 290 F-300 degrees F, remove from heat; gently stir in the vanilla extract. Carefully pour mixture over chopped pecans. Let candy sit for a few minutes, undisturbed, before sprinkling chocolate chips over the top. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil; let sit for 5 minutes or until chocolate has softened. Remove foil; gently spread softened chocolate in an even layer using an offset spatula.
Place candy in the refrigerator; let cool completely for at least 2 hours.
Lift parchment paper off of the baking dish. Place the toffee on a cutting board or another solid surface. Cut or break into 24 pieces.
Store in an airtight container in a cool place.
24 servings.
*Tip: Sprinkle the top with a little Kosher salt at the end.