Kitchen Recipe Collection
Sri Lankan Milk Toffee (Kiri Tofi)
A rich, creamy, fudge-like Sri Lankan sweet made from condensed milk, sugar, butter, and cashew nuts — a beloved homemade confection prepared for the New Year and given as gifts.
- Prep
- 10 min
- Cook
- 30 min
- Total
- 40 min
- Servings
- 20
- Difficulty
- medium
- Cuisine
- sri lankan
Ingredients
Scaled for 20 servings
- sweetened condensed milk
- sugar
- butter
- cashew nuts
- cardamom
- vanilla extract
Equipment
- Heavy-bottomed pan
- Greased baking tray
- Wooden spoon
- Candy thermometer (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine Ingredients
In a heavy-bottomed pan, combine condensed milk, sugar, and butter. Stir together over medium heat until the butter melts and everything is combined.
- 2
Cook & Stir
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, for 20–25 minutes. The mixture will gradually darken to a golden caramel color and thicken considerably.
- 3
Test Consistency
Drop a small amount into a cup of cold water. If it forms a firm ball that holds its shape, the toffee is ready. (Soft ball stage, about 115°C.)
- 4
Add Flavor
Remove from heat. Quickly stir in cardamom, vanilla, and roughly chopped cashew nuts.
- 5
Set & Cut
Pour onto a greased tray. Smooth with a spatula. Score into squares before it fully sets. Allow to cool completely, then break along the score lines.
Cooking Tips
- Never stop stirring — the sugar will burn on the bottom of the pan the moment you stop.
- A heavy-bottomed pan is essential for even heat distribution.
- Work quickly once off the heat — milk toffee sets rapidly.
Variations
- Chocolate Milk Toffee: Stir in 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder at the end for a chocolate version.
- Coconut Milk Toffee: Replace condensed milk with thick coconut milk and jaggery for a traditional coconut version.
Chef's Notes & Storage
- Milk toffee is one of the most popular homemade Sri Lankan gifts during the New Year and Christmas season.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Nutrition Estimate
120 calories · 2g protein · 18g carbs · 5g fat · 0g fiber per serving
