1. Prepare the Pan
- Line an 8x8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it for easy removal.
2. Combine Ingredients in a Saucepan
- In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the butter, sweetened condensed milk, sugar, and whole milk.
- Place the saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring continuously to dissolve the sugar and melt the butter.
3. Cook the Mixture
- Once the mixture begins to simmer, continue cooking while stirring constantly to prevent sticking or burning.
- Use a wooden spoon or silicone spatula to stir, as the mixture will thicken significantly.
- Cook until the mixture reaches the soft-ball stage (235–240°F/113–116°C) on a candy thermometer. If you don’t have a thermometer, test by dropping a small amount of the mixture into a glass of cold water—if it forms a soft ball, it’s ready.
4. Cool Slightly
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly for 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally to release steam and prevent crystallization.
5. Add Flavorings
- Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Mix well to incorporate.
- Optional: Fold in finely chopped nuts or citrus zest for added flavor and texture.
6. Beat the Mixture
- Vigorously beat the mixture by hand or with an electric mixer until it thickens and loses its glossy sheen. This step is crucial for achieving the tablet’s signature crumbly texture.
- The mixture will start to stiffen and pull away from the sides of the pan.
7. Pour and Set
- Quickly pour the thickened mixture into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Allow the tablet to cool and set at room temperature for 2–3 hours, or until firm.
8. Cut and Serve
- Once set, lift the tablet out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut it into squares or rectangles.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
9. Enjoy
- Enjoy every bite of this buttery, sweet, and indulgent Scottish Tablet!
- Perfect as a standalone treat, paired with a cup of tea or coffee, or gifted in decorative tins.
Tips for Success
- Use a Heavy-Bottomed Pan: This ensures even heating and prevents the mixture from burning.
- Stir Constantly: Continuous stirring is key to achieving the right texture and preventing sticking.
- Don’t Rush the Beating Step: Properly beating the mixture after cooking ensures the tablet’s crumbly consistency.
- Add Variations: Experiment with flavors like almond extract, orange zest, or cinnamon for a unique twist.
- Store Properly: Keep in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the tablet from absorbing moisture.
Why This Recipe Works
This Scottish Tablet combines simple ingredients—butter, sugar, condensed milk, and flavorings—into a sweet, creamy confection that’s both satisfying and versatile. The straightforward preparation ensures consistent results without requiring advanced candy-making skills, while the customizable options allow you to tailor the recipe to your taste. Whether served as a standalone treat or customized with your favorite flavors, this tablet delivers big on taste and nostalgia.
Conclusion: A Treat Everyone Will Love
Whether you’re craving something sweet and indulgent, looking for a way to simplify dessert prep, or simply want to indulge in a homemade treat, this Scottish Tablet is sure to delight. Its bold flavors, satisfying textures, and practical preparation make it a standout recipe that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Plus, its adaptability means you can tailor it to suit any occasion.
We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your take on this tablet might just inspire others to try it too! 🍴✨
