There’s something irresistibly delightful about the combination of crumbly, buttery cookies and the rich, creamy indulgence of dulce de leche. When these elements come together in the form of alfajores, a beloved treat from Latin America, the result is nothing short of magical. Recently, I had the pleasure of trying a homemade version of these cookies, and the experience was nothing short of a culinary revelation. My family, notorious for their discerning palates, were unanimous in their praise. The alfajores were gone within moments of being served, their soft, melt-in-the-mouth texture and sweet, luscious filling leaving a lasting impression. These cookies are not just a treat; they’re a celebration of flavor and texture that brings joy with every bite.
Ingredients
Creating the perfect alfajores requires a careful selection of ingredients, each playing a vital role in achieving the ideal balance of texture and taste. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 ½ cups (180g) all-purpose flour – The foundation of the cookie, providing structure.
- ½ cup (60g) cornstarch – Ensures the cookies have a tender, crumbly texture.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder – Aids in the slight rise and lightness of the cookies.
- ¼ teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness and flavor.
- ⅓ cup (40g) powdered sugar – Sweetens and lends a fine texture that blends seamlessly into the dough.
- 2 large egg yolks – Contribute to the richness and help bind the dough.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a subtle, fragrant sweetness.
- 1 cup (320g) dulce de leche – The star of the filling, providing a creamy, caramel-like sweetness.
- Desiccated coconut (optional) – For rolling the edges, adding a touch of texture and flavor.
Instructions
Making alfajores at home is a rewarding process that, while requiring some patience, is well worth the effort. Follow these steps for a batch of cookies that are sure to impress:
- Prepare the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- Mix the wet ingredients: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter with the powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolks and vanilla extract, mixing until well incorporated.
- Combine the mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing gently until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.
- Chill the dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial for ensuring the cookies hold their shape.
- Preheat and prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll and cut the dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about ¼ inch thickness. Use a round cookie cutter to cut out the cookies and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Assemble the alfajores: Once the cookies are completely cool, spread a generous dollop of dulce de leche on the bottom of one cookie and sandwich it with another. If desired, roll the edges in desiccated coconut.
Nutrition Facts
When enjoying these alfajores, it’s always good to be mindful of the nutritional information. Here’s a breakdown for a standard serving:
- Servings: This recipe makes about 20 alfajores.
- Calories per serving: Approximately 150 calories per cookie.
Preparation Time
While alfajores are not the quickest cookies to prepare, the time invested is well rewarded with their deliciousness. Here’s a breakdown of the time you’ll need:
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Chilling time: 30 minutes
- Baking time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour
How to Serve
Alfajores are versatile and can be enjoyed in various settings. Here are a few ways to serve these delightful cookies:
- With coffee or tea: Alfajores make a perfect accompaniment to a warm cup of coffee or tea, enhancing the flavors of both.
- As a dessert: Serve as a dessert after a meal, paired with a small scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Gift them: Wrap them beautifully in a box or tin as a thoughtful and delicious gift for friends or family.
- At parties: Set them out on a dessert table at gatherings or parties for guests to enjoy.
- Snack time: Keep a few on hand for a sweet treat during your afternoon snack break.
Additional Tips
To ensure your alfajores are as delicious as possible, consider these additional tips:
- Use quality ingredients: The flavor of your alfajores will greatly depend on the quality of the ingredients. Opt for real vanilla extract and good-quality butter for the best results.
- Chill the dough thoroughly: This helps maintain the shape of the cookies and prevents them from spreading too much while baking.
- Don’t overbake: Alfajores should be pale in color with only the slightest hint of golden at the edges. Overbaking will result in a harder texture.
- Customize the filling: While dulce de leche is traditional, feel free to experiment with other fillings like chocolate ganache or fruit preserves.
- Store properly: Keep alfajores in an airtight container to ensure they remain fresh and maintain their delicate texture.
FAQ Section
Here are some frequently asked questions about alfajores to help you on your baking journey:
Q: Can I make alfajores gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that is suitable for baking. Ensure it contains xanthan gum to help with binding.
Q: How long do alfajores last?
A: When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, alfajores can last up to a week. However, they are best enjoyed fresh.
Q: Can I freeze alfajores?
A: Yes, you can freeze alfajores. It’s best to freeze the cookies without the filling and assemble them after thawing for the best texture.
Q: What is the origin of alfajores?
A: Alfajores have roots in the Moorish occupation of Spain and have become popular in many Latin American countries, each adding their own unique twist.
Q: Is there a substitute for dulce de leche?
A: If you can’t find dulce de leche, you can make your own by slowly simmering sweetened condensed milk until it thickens and caramelizes, or use a thick caramel sauce as an alternative.










