The origin of the term toffee is unclear and debatable, but some believe it comes from the world "tafia."The meaning of toffee in Creole language is "a blend of sugar and molasses." Other items one might find informational are that English toffee was believed to have orginated as a 19th century confection, there are currently various kinds of toffee and even that the name is supposed to refer to its characterstics.

English toffee is a buttery treat that is often made with almonds. The candy is known internationally for its sweet taste. There are soft chewy variants of Michigan toffee and there are harder versions that may be covered in chocolate and nuts. The history of English toffee sparks much debate and several theories have emerged to explain its origin. Food historians can pinpoint some highlights in its history.

It may be unclear and debatable of where the term originated

Toffee is an old word, it's first recorded entry in the Oxford English dictionary was in 1825. But, several of them believe that the term existed before it was included in the dictionary even though there are no particular accounts of the exact time it first appeared. In addition, the root of the term is not clear and it can cause alot of controversy.

Some believe it originated from the word "tafia," a West Indian rum which is created from molasses or sugarcane juice

One theory proposes that it may have come from the word "tafia," which is a West Indian rum concocted from molasses or sugarcane juice. This inexpensive rum is unaged and was usually used to add flavor to the candies.

In the native Creole tongue toffee is defined as a mixture of molasses and sugar

The word toffee mean "a combination of sugar and molasses" in the Creole language.The one who said this is Harold McGee, a food writer. Unfortunately, he failed to mention which Creole language he was talking about so we have no idea.

Name is used to give reference to its features

Toffee originated with toughy or tuffy because of its texture. The phrase likely originated from a British dialect of the south.

It has been said that a 19th century confection is what brought about English toffee

The use of unpaid, enslaved workers meant that prices were depressed in sugar and treacle in the early 19th century. As a consequence, the toffee ingredients that make up toffee were great and easily avaliable to consumers. English women used these two ingredients to develop a tasty yet affordable candy. The current English toffee is not much different than ones prepared in olden days. The primary priciples to making toffee are stirring and boiling cream and sugar then pooring butter into the mix.

Toffee variations are in the hundreds

There have been many new and different techniques of toffee-making since the original recipe was made. Flavors like almond and vanilla are commonly used but lemon, peppermint and coffee are also quite popular in old-fashioned toffee recipes. Some examples of confectioners are milk tea, hard sweets, and candy bars. Different chopped nuts like walnuts, pecans and cashews have also become a common additions to toffee. The marshmallows and oatmeal give it texture and taste.

We may continue to argue the beginnings and still remain unsure, this will not however, prevent us enjoying and gifting this tasty candy.