Homemade Heath Bits O Brickle English Toffee Baking Bits Recipe: Better Than Store-Bought, Healthier & Customizable

Category: Baking Bits

Introduction

Heath Bits O' Brickle English Toffee Baking Bits are a beloved favorite among bakers and dessert lovers, offering a perfect blend of buttery toffee and crunchy texture. These bits add a delightful flavor to cookies, brownies, and other baked goods. However, store-bought versions can be high in sugar and preservatives, which is why making them at home is a great alternative. This recipe allows you to enjoy the same delicious taste with the ability to customize ingredients for better nutrition and taste.

I remember the first time I tasted Heath Bars; it was during a family vacation. My grandmother, an avid baker, decided to create her own version for our annual bake-off. The result was a homemade toffee that was richer and less sweet than store-bought. This recipe is inspired by those memories, offering a healthier, customizable alternative.

Why Make It at Home?

Making Heath Bits at home allows you to control sugar content, use high-quality ingredients, and customize flavors. It's cost-effective and fun, ensuring freshness without preservatives.

Personal Anecdote

During a family bake-off, my grandmother's homemade toffee became a hit. Her secret was using real butter and less sugar, creating a richer flavor. This recipe captures that essence, allowing you to share similar memories.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:10 minutes
• **Cook Time:20 minutes
• **Total Time:30 minutes
• **Yield:2 cups

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp (3g) sea salt

Wet Ingredients:

• 1 cup (200g) organic brown sugar
• 1/2 cup (120ml) unsalted butter, pasture-raised
• 2 tbsp (30ml) pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream (or non-dairy milk)

Toffee Bits:

• 1 cup (120g) dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)

Instructions

• Line Baking Sheet: Place parchment paper on a baking sheet.
• Mix Dry Ingredients: Whisk flour and salt in a bowl.
• Melt Sugar Mixture: In a saucepan, melt butter and brown sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly.
• Boil Mixture: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat. Simmer 5-7 minutes until caramelized.
• Add Flour Mixture: Stir in flour mixture until combined.
• Cool & Set: Pour onto the baking sheet, spread thin, and cool until set.
• Break into Bits: Break into small pieces.
• Melt Chocolate: Melt chocolate in a double boiler, coat toffee bits, and let set.

Variations

• Low-Sugar Version: Use coconut sugar and less quantity.
• Vegan Version: Replace butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour.

Special Equipment

• Saucepan, baking sheet, parchment paper, double boiler (optional).

Pro Tips

• Avoid Crystallization: Don’t stir too much to prevent grainy texture.
• Perfect Texture: Cook to 290°F for ideal hardness.
• Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of sea salt for depth.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Substitutions: Yes, use non-dairy milk and vegan chocolate.
• Texture Issues: If too hard, re-melt and adjust cooking time.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container up to 2 weeks.
• Scaling: Double or triple the recipe as needed.
• Preservation: Freeze for up to 2 months.

Serving Suggestions

• Baked Goods: Add to cookies, brownies, or muffins.
• Ice Cream Topping: Sprinkle on ice cream or yogurt.
• Trail Mix: Mix with nuts and dried fruits.

Conclusion

This recipe offers a healthier, customizable alternative to store-bought bits, capturing the rich toffee flavor with less sugar. Perfect for baking and snacks, it's a delightful addition to your creations. Share your results and enjoy the homemade difference!