Six Theories and Interesting Facts About the History of Toffee

Almonds compose English toffee which has a distinctively butter taste to it. This kind of candy is known globally and has many varieties. Michigan toffee includes both soft, chewy types and harder, chocolate- or nut-covered versions. The history of English toffee sparks much debate and several theories have emerged to explain its origin. Food historians are able to highlight some major events throughout the food's history.

No one is sure where the term came from or what it really means

The word toffee was first published in the Oxford English Dictionary in the year 1825. No one knows exactly when or where the word originated, but many seem to think that it was around long before it ever appeared in dictionaries. In addition, the root of the term is not clear and it can cause alot of controversy.

Some believe it comes from the word tafia

According to one theory it came from the word "tafia," which is a West Indian rum concocted from molasses or sugarcane juice. Cheap rum was used to flavor candies and was unaged.

The word toffee in Creole means sugar and molasses

Another theory asserts that in the Creole tongue, the meaning of the word toffee is "a combination of sugar and molasses."Food writer Harold McGee reiterated this claim, but did not identify the Creole language to which he referred.

The name is said to refer to its characteristics

A third theory is that toffee is derived from the word toughy, referring to its hard chewiness. The term is said to have come from a southern British dialect.

English toffee is said to have been derived from a 19th century confection

In the early 1800s slave labor depressed sugar and treacle prices. That's why it became easier and easier to find the main ingredients that are required for toffee making. Seeking a frugal solution, these two english ladies combined these two ingredients, with success. The current English toffee is not much different than ones prepared in olden days. The recipe for basic toffee includes first boiling and mixing cream and sugar and then adding butter into the mixture.

Different kinds of toffees are available today

Even though it started off as something quite simple, toffee now comes in a variety of interesting flavors. In old-fashioned toffee recipes, flavors like almond and vanilla are commonly used; however lemon, peppermint, and coffee are also quite popular. Some confectioners will add milk chocolate as well as other ingredients such as milk or candy chips. A variety of chopped nuts have become common additions to toffee; including walnuts, pecans, and cashews. The marshmallows and oatmeal give it texture and taste.

Despite all the debate and uncertainty surrounding toffee's exact origins, it continues to be a delectable treat that many people all over the world enjoy for themselves or give as gifts to their loved ones.


------

Have the taste of the high quality Michigan toffee by checking out http://www.champagnechocolates.com/toffee