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Authentic Scottish Tablet Recipe

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  • Author: Jessica
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 37 minutes
  • Yield: 24 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Scottish

Description

Scottish Tablet is a traditional Scottish confection characterized by its rich, buttery sweetness and crumbly texture. Made from a simple blend of butter, sugar, milk, and condensed milk, this fudge-like treat is simmered slowly to develop a lovely golden color before being cooled and cut into squares. Infused with vanilla or whisky for added depth of flavor, tablet is a classic, nostalgic sweet perfect for gifting or enjoying with tea.


Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients

  • 2 oz salted butter (if using unsalted, add a pinch of salt)
  • 2.5 oz water
  • 2.5 oz milk
  • 2 ¼ cups white granulated sugar
  • 7 oz sweetened condensed milk (½ of a 14 oz can)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract or whisky


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pan: Line a 7″ x 11″ baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and allow for easy removal once the tablet sets.
  2. Melt Butter and Combine Liquids: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, add the water and milk, stirring gently to combine.
  3. Dissolve Sugar and Boil: Gradually add the sugar to the pot over low heat, stirring continuously until fully dissolved. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, maintaining a gentle boil without stirring, and cook for 10 minutes.
  4. Add Condensed Milk and Simmer: Stir in the sweetened condensed milk. Continue to simmer the mixture while stirring constantly for at least 10 minutes. Be vigilant to prevent the mixture from sticking to the pot or burning. The mixture should begin to turn a lovely golden color. Adjust heat as necessary to maintain a steady simmer.
  5. Remove from Heat and Flavor: Once the desired golden color and thickness are reached, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract or whisky. Let the mixture cool for a couple of minutes.
  6. Beat the Mixture: Vigorously beat the mixture with a wooden spoon or hand mixer until it thickens significantly and becomes creamy. This step may take a few minutes; patience is critical for proper texture.
  7. Set the Tablet: Pour the beaten mixture into the prepared parchment-lined pan, spreading evenly. Allow to cool completely at room temperature or in the fridge to set firmly.
  8. Cut and Store: Once fully set, cut the tablet into squares. Wrap individual pieces in parchment paper or store in an airtight tin in a cool place or the refrigerator for best freshness.

Notes

  • Strictly follow the recipe instructions and ingredient quantities for best results; altering steps or ingredients can lead to failure.
  • Use a wooden spoon for stirring and beating the mixture.
  • If using a candy thermometer, the target temperature for tablet is 240°F (116°C).
  • Tablet can be stored for at least one month if kept in an airtight tin in a cool place due to its high sugar content.
  • Maintain a steady simmer and avoid high heat to prevent burning or sticking.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 piece (approx. 20g)
  • Calories: 105
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 35mg
  • Fat: 3.5g
  • Saturated Fat: 2.1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 1.2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 19g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg