NANCY’S KITCHEN- John's Toffee Bars

Men do cook. Haven’t you noticed most professional chefs are men? In homes around the country there are plenty of men that enjoy cooking. They also make the best outdoor grillers.

My grandson-in-law, John Rohrer, is one of those men that is comfortable helping my granddaughter, Cassie in the kitchen.

Cassie related a humorous incident to me during the period they were dating each other. At the time, John was living in an apartment. Cassie was visiting him and decided she would cook him a meal. In his kitchen cabinets, she searched and found a box of Hamburger Helper. Then she started searching in the freezer for the ground beef but could find none. She asked him “Where is the beef?” He told her there was no problem; he just followed the package directions on the box omitting the meat. I guess that would be a savings on the budget alright but I wonder about the taste. Since getting married, he has discovered my Cassie is a skilled cook; no more meatless Hamburger Helpers.

This KEEPER recipe is John’s own special. He commented it is a simple recipe that can be whipped up anytime and is easy to remember. When he prepares these bars, he always gets compliments and requests for him to make more. He stated any type of nuts may be substituted in place of the almonds if you wish. Since I am not a fan of semisweet chocolate, I would use milk chocolate chips instead. That is my opinion; the choice is yours.

Thanks for the recipe John.

JOHN’S TOFFEE BARS

2 cups butter

2 cups white sugar

¼ tsp. salt

2 cups semisweet chocolate chips

1 cup finely chopped almonds

In a large heavy bottomed saucepan, combine the butter, sugar and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the butter is melted. Allow to come to a boil, and cook until the mixture becomes a dark amber color and the temperature has reached 285 degrees. Stir occasionally.

While the toffee is cooking, cover a large baking sheet with foil or parchment paper

As soon as the toffee reaches the proper temperature, pour it out onto the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle the chocolate chips over the top and let it set for a minute or two to soften. Spread the chocolate into a thin, even layer once it is melted. Sprinkle the nuts over the chocolate, and press in slightly. Putting a plastic bag over your hand will minimize the mess.

Place the toffee in the refrigerator to chill until set. Break into pieces and store in an airtight container.

I believe my Cassie is blessed that John is her husband and soul-mate.