For the BIG gesture, you probably don’t need much help.  There are lots of jewelers, car dealerships, and couture stores around to help you pick out the right gift.

For the sweet gesture, however, it’s a little more difficult.  Chocolates, flowers, and stuffed animals look too much like you waited till the last minute and had to come up with something.  That’s not an impression that will make anyone feel important.

My recommendation is to impress your Valentine with some Pete’s Perfect Butter Toffee.

There really is a Pete behind Pete’s Perfect Butter Toffee, and the candy is made using his mother’s recipe.  Well, truth be told, it really wasn’t his mother’s recipe.  It belonged to the neighbor.  And the neighbor passed the recipe on to Pete’s mom shortly after World War II with the express promise that it was never to be passed on.  Uh huh, sure, I promise!

The recipe makes a delicious toffee, nut so hard that you’ll break a tooth, but not so soft that it lacks that nutty crunch.  It comes is a choice of milk or dark chocolate.  While I’m not typically a fan of dark chocolate (I know, heresy), this is one time that it’s the best choice.

Perfection doesn’t come easily, and it’s going to take some effort to pick up some Pete’s.  It’s current available at the Ballard Farmers Market, operating Sunday 11 am – 3 pm (winter hours).  A half pound sells for $9.

If you miss the market, you’ll have to call Pete (425-640-3385) or email him for a special order.  There is no website or online ordering available.

While you’re ordering, you best get a few extra containers.  Perfection is meant to be shared — but you’ll want to keep some of this treat for yourself.

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Post from: The Seattle Traveler