NATIONAL ENGLISH TOFFEE DAY
On January 8th, National English Toffee Day celebrates a favored confection that’s been enjoyed across the country for generations. This sweet treat comes with some confusion concerning the difference between English toffee and just plain toffee. Despite the confusion, it’s an enjoyable confection no matter how you crack it.
GATHER YOUR INGREDIENTS
Some say that English toffee is a harder candy than the American version. Others say that it’s the other way around. Some say the Americans add nuts, but the toffee in the United Kingdom doesn’t have nuts. Either way, this hard, sometimes chewy candy is made by caramelizing sugar. The Heath bar is a type of candy bar made with an English toffee core. It is sometimes enrobed in chocolate and topped with nuts.
There is one significant difference between British toffee and American toffee, however; the British make toffee with only brown sugar, not white. And while they typically do not add nuts, they will add a layer of chocolate. Don’t hesitate to try dark, milk or white chocolate with English toffee. All varieties add a different texture and flavor.
Both the American and British versions are enjoyed all year long, though.
HOW TO OBSERVE #EnglishToffeeDay
Gather up your ingredients. Making toffee can be both challenging and rewarding. It’s also a beautiful candy with delicious textures. Share it with the office or family members. We’ve even provided several recipes for you to try.
Visit your favorite bakery or candy shop to pick up an order of English toffee freshly made. Yes, some places still make it fresh.
Use #EnglishToffeeDay to post on social media.
NATIONAL ENGLISH TOFFEE DAY HISTORY
The National Confectioners Association recognizes this sweet observance. However, National Day Calendar continues to pursue the founders of the day.
English Toffee FAQ
Q. Can I use both white and brown sugar to make toffee?
A. Yes. You can substitute a portion of the white sugar for brown sugar to make toffee.
Q. What kinds of nuts can be added to toffee?
A. Chopped nuts add texture and flavor to toffee. Try adding walnuts, pecans, cashews or Brazil nuts.
Q. Does English toffee make a good gift?
A. Yes! Package the toffee in a box layered with wax paper. Then wrap with a ribbon or paper and you’ll have a gift many will appreciate.
Q. How long does toffee keep?
A. Toffee stored in an airtight container will last up to two weeks. However, it can also be frozen for longer preservation.
January 8th Celebrated (and Not So Celebrated) History
1790
George Washington delivers the first State of the Union address to Congress in Federal Hall in New York City.
1867
Congress overrides Andrew Johnson’s veto of a bill granting Blacks the right to vote in Washington, D.C. At the time, citizens of D.C. had no representation in Congress, though they did have a local governing body.
1978
BBC TV debuts the television series All Creatures Great and Small based on the autobiographical books by author James Herriot.
January 8th Celebrated (and Not So Celebrated) Birthdays
Fanny Bullock Workman – 1859
The explorer spent most of her career climbing the Himalayas. One of her most notable achievements includes being the first woman to exceed 23,300 feet when she climbed Pinnacle Peak.
Elvis Presley – 1935
Known as the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, Presley gained fame in 1955 with his first number 1 hit sing, “Heartbreak Hotel.” Before long, he was cast in his first film, Love Me Tender. Then, after serving in the Army, Elvis’ music career rocketed off the charts.
Stephen Hawking – 1942
The theoretical physicist redefined the way we think about the universe. Even with the devastating diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Hawking proceeded to redefine the Big Bang theory or rather bring it into focus. He also further studied and defined black holes. In addition, Hawking published several books, including The Theory of Everything and A Brief History of Time.
David Bowie – 1947
Born David Robert Jones, the English singer-songwriter gained popularity with his first hit song “Space Oddity” in 1969. Bowie also starred in several films including Labyrinth, The Prestige, and The Man Who Fell to Earth.