Indulge in the nostalgic sweetness of Old Fashioned Tablet, a classic Scottish confection famed for its rich, crumbly texture and caramelized flavor. Made with simple pantry staples like granulated sugar, butter, full-fat milk, and sweetened condensed milk, this traditional treat is cooked to perfection, reaching the soft-ball stage for that signature melt-in-your-mouth consistency. A hint of vanilla extract elevates the flavor, adding a touch of warmth to every bite. Perfect for gifting or serving alongside tea or coffee, this delightful tablet recipe takes just 15 minutes of prep and is ideal for sharing with friends and family. Crafted with care and classic techniques, it’s a timeless indulgence that will transport you straight to the heart of Scotland.
Prepare a deep, heavy-bottomed pan and line a 9x9-inch (23x23 cm) shallow baking tin with parchment paper.
In the pan, combine the sugar, butter, milk, and water. Heat over medium-low heat until the sugar dissolves completely and the butter is melted, stirring frequently.
Turn the heat up to medium and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Stir continuously for about 10 minutes to prevent sticking or scorching.
Carefully add the sweetened condensed milk to the pan and stir to combine. Reduce the heat slightly and allow the mixture to cook. Stir frequently for approximately 20–30 minutes, or until the mixture thickens and achieves a pale golden color. It should reach the soft-ball stage, approximately 115°C (239°F) on a candy thermometer.
Remove the pan from the heat and add the vanilla extract. Stir vigorously for 5–10 minutes until the mixture starts to lose its sheen and becomes thicker. This ensures the tablet will set with the desired crumbly texture.
Quickly pour the tablet mixture into the prepared baking tin, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Allow it to cool slightly, then use a sharp knife to score it into small rectangular or square pieces.
Once completely cooled and set, cut through the scored lines to separate the pieces. Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
Serving size | 1724.8 grams (1724.8g) |
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Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
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Calories | 5710 |
Total Fat 141.40g | 181% |
Saturated Fat 84.10g | 421% |
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.60g | |
Cholesterol 421mg | 140% |
Sodium 621mg | 27% |
Total Carbohydrate 1128.40g | 410% |
Dietary Fiber 0.00g | 0% |
Total Sugars 1128.90g | |
Protein 40.70g | 81% |
Vitamin D 145IU | 726% |
Calcium 1473mg | 113% |
Iron 1mg | 4% |
Potassium 1893mg | 40% |
Source of Calories