Toffee History & Trivia
The word "toffee" first appeared in printed English around 1825, though similar boiled sugar-and-butter sweets existed earlier; the candy spread in 19th-century Britain as sugar and treacle became more affordable. Its close relative taffy is documented slightly earlier, with the term appearing by 1817.
Origins of Toffee
Toffee emerged in Britain during the early 19th century, a period when refined sugar and treacle became cheaper and more widely available. Its name is of uncertain origin but is first recorded in printed English around 1825.
Toffee Trivia
Regional British traditions gave rise to treacle toffee, eaten around Bonfire Night, and airy honeycomb or cinder toffee. What Americans call English toffee, buttery and almond-topped, became especially associated with holiday candy making.
Answers in Toffee History & Trivia (2)
Frequently asked
- When did toffee first appear?
- The word toffee is first recorded in printed English around 1825, with the candy becoming widespread in 19th-century Britain.
Sources
By Kelsy Maruyama, Founder & Toffee Maker, Kelsy's Kandy
Reviewed by Jason Burns, Editorial Steward
Updated 7/20/2026.