Alfajores are delicious sandwich cookies filled with creamy dulce de leche, a popular treat in many Latin American countries. These delicate cookies are made with cornstarch and flour, giving them a unique, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
The sweetness of the dulce de leche perfectly complements the buttery cookies, creating an irresistible combination. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to enjoy with your afternoon coffee, Alfajores are sure to delight your taste buds. This simple recipe is easy to follow and will bring a touch of Latin American tradition to your home.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe works well because it balances simplicity with authentic flavor. Using cornstarch in the dough gives the cookies their signature soft and crumbly texture, which pairs beautifully with the smooth and rich dulce de leche filling. The ingredients are straightforward and likely already in your pantry, making it convenient to prepare these delightful cookies any time you want a sweet treat.
You should make this recipe because it’s not only delicious but also versatile. Alfajores can be enjoyed as a dessert, a snack, or even given as thoughtful homemade gifts. The combination of buttery cookies and sweet filling is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for sharing with friends and family. Plus, the process of making Alfajores is enjoyable and rewarding, giving you a taste of Latin American culture right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
Cornstarch: Gives the cookies a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture. No good substitute for this key ingredient.
Butter: Adds richness and helps bind the dough. Margarine can be used if necessary.
Sugar: Sweetens the dough and balances the flavors. You can use powdered sugar for a finer texture.
Dulce de Leche: The filling that makes Alfajores special. Caramel spread can be used as a substitute.
All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure to the cookies. Gluten-free flour can be used if needed.
Tips
- Chill the dough before rolling it out to make it easier to handle.
- Use a cookie cutter to ensure uniform size and shape.
- Let the cookies cool completely before adding the filling.
- Dust the finished cookies with powdered sugar for a traditional look.
- Store the Alfajores in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
How to Serve
Alfajores are best enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea. They are perfect for special occasions or as a delightful treat any time of the day. The combination of the buttery cookies and the sweet, creamy dulce de leche filling is irresistible.
- Serve as a dessert at a dinner party, arranged on a decorative plate.
- Pack them in a beautiful box and give them as gifts during the holidays.
- Enjoy them as an afternoon snack with a glass of cold milk.
Similar Recipes
Alfajores
Ingredients
- 1 cup cornstarch
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup butter softened
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 cup dulce de leche
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix together cornstarch, flour, and baking powder.
- In another bowl, beat the butter and sugar until creamy. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill for 30 minutes.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about ¼ inch thickness. Cut into circles using a cookie cutter.
- Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let the cookies cool completely. Spread dulce de leche on one cookie and top with another to make a sandwich.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Nutrition
Notes
• Use a cookie cutter to ensure uniform size and shape.
• Let the cookies cool completely before adding the filling.
• Dust the finished cookies with powdered sugar for a traditional look.
• Store the Alfajores in an airtight container to keep them fresh.