Alfajores Recipe: Alfajores are delicious, delicate sandwich cookies filled with creamy dulce de leche and often coated in chocolate, powdered sugar, or coconut flakes. These sweet treats are popular in South America, especially in Argentina, Uruguay, and Peru. They have a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes them irresistible.
History and Origin of Alfajores
The origin of Alfajores dates back to the Moorish influence in Spain. The word “Alfajor” comes from the Arabic word “Al-Hasu,” meaning “filled” or “stuffed.” When the Spanish brought their culinary traditions to Latin America, the recipe evolved, and today, Alfajores are considered a staple dessert, particularly in Argentina.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
- Deliciously Soft & Buttery: The cookie dough is rich and crumbly.
- Perfectly Balanced Sweetness: Dulce de leche filling adds the right amount of sweetness.
- Customizable: You can coat them in chocolate, coconut, or powdered sugar.
Ingredients Needed
Essential Ingredients
To make the perfect Alfajores, you will need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornstarch (Maicena)
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 cup dulce de leche (for filling)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Alternative Ingredient Options
- You can substitute gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
- Instead of vanilla extract, use almond extract for a different flavor.
- For a healthier option, replace some butter with Greek yogurt.
Tools & Equipment Required
Kitchen Tools Needed
- Mixing bowls – For combining ingredients.
- Electric mixer or whisk – To cream butter and sugar.
- Rolling pin – For flattening the dough.
- Round cookie cutter – To cut perfect circles.
- Baking sheet & parchment paper – For even baking.
Alternative Tools for Convenience
- If you don’t have a rolling pin, use a smooth glass bottle.
- A knife or cup rim can work instead of a cookie cutter.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Alfajores
Step 1: Preparing the Dough
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and baking soda. Set aside.
- In a separate large bowl, cream butter and sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
- Add egg yolks and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 2: Rolling and Cutting the Cookies
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the dough to ¼-inch thickness.
- Use a round cookie cutter (or the rim of a glass) to cut out circles.
- Place cookies on a lined baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
Step 3: Baking the Cookies
- Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, until the edges are just set (avoid browning).
- Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Making the Dulce de Leche Filling
How to Make Homemade Dulce de Leche
- Remove the label from a can of sweetened condensed milk.
- Place the unopened can in a large pot, covering it with water.
- Simmer for 3 hours, ensuring the can is always submerged.
- Let it cool completely before opening.
Store-Bought vs. Homemade Dulce de Leche
- Homemade dulce de leche has a richer, more authentic flavor.
- Store-bought versions are quicker but may be slightly sweeter.
Assembling the Alfajores
Step 1: Spreading the Dulce de Leche
- Take one cooled cookie and spread a generous layer of dulce de leche on the flat side.
Step 2: Sandwiching the Cookies
- Gently press another cookie on top, forming a sandwich.
Optional Fillings & Variations
- Add peanut butter for a nutty twist.
- Try fruit jam for a tangy contrast.
Coating and Decorating Alfajores
Once your Alfajores are assembled, it’s time to make them even more delicious with different coatings and decorations.
Dusting with Powdered Sugar
A classic way to finish Alfajores is by lightly dusting them with powdered sugar. Simply place them on a tray and sprinkle sugar over them using a fine-mesh sieve. This gives them a bakery-style look and enhances their sweetness.
Dipping in Chocolate
For a richer version, you can dip your Alfajores in melted chocolate. Here’s how:
- Melt dark, milk, or white chocolate in a microwave or double boiler.
- Dip one side or fully coat the Alfajores in the chocolate.
- Place them on parchment paper and let them set at room temperature or refrigerate for faster setting.
Adding Coconut Flakes
A popular Argentine variation includes rolling the edges of the cookies in shredded coconut. This adds texture and balances the sweetness of the dulce de leche.
Storage Tips
Alfajores can last for several days if stored properly.
Best Ways to Store Alfajores
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Refrigeration: If you live in a warm climate, keep them in the fridge for up to 10 days.
Freezing Alfajores for Later
- Wrap individual Alfajores in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Thaw at room temperature before eating.
Serving Suggestions
Alfajores are delicious on their own, but they can be enjoyed even more with these pairings:
What to Pair Alfajores With
- Coffee or Espresso: The rich flavor of coffee complements the sweetness of Alfajores.
- Tea: A mild herbal or black tea balances the buttery cookies.
- Hot Chocolate: Especially great in colder months.
Best Occasions to Enjoy Alfajores
- Breakfast or Afternoon Snack: A perfect treat with coffee.
- Dessert for Parties: Serve on a platter for guests.
- Gift Idea: Pack them in a decorative box for a thoughtful homemade gift.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even simple recipes can go wrong. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them:
Dough-Related Mistakes
❌ Overworking the Dough – This can make the cookies tough. Mix until just combined.
❌ Not Chilling the Dough – Warm dough spreads too much. Refrigerate before rolling.
Baking Errors
❌ Overbaking the Cookies – Alfajores should be pale, not golden brown.
❌ Using Too Much Flour – Excess flour makes the cookies dry. Always measure correctly.
Filling & Assembling Issues
❌ Applying Too Much Dulce de Leche – It can make them messy and hard to eat.
❌ Not Letting Them Rest – Alfajores taste better after a few hours when the flavors meld.
Variations of Alfajores
Chocolate Alfajores
- Add 2 tbsp cocoa powder to the dough for a chocolaty twist.
- Fill with Nutella or chocolate ganache instead of dulce de leche.
Cornstarch-Based Alfajores (Alfajores de Maicena)
- Increase cornstarch to 1 ½ cups and reduce flour.
- This results in an extra soft, crumbly texture.
Gluten-Free Alfajores
- Use gluten-free flour mix in place of all-purpose flour.
- Ensure the baking powder and other ingredients are gluten-free.
Healthier Alternatives
For those who want a lighter version of Alfajores, here are some tweaks:
Lower Sugar Options
- Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a natural sweetener.
- Use sugar-free dulce de leche or homemade lower-sugar caramel.
Whole Wheat Flour Alternative
- Swap half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for extra fiber.
- This makes the cookies slightly denser but healthier.
Cultural Significance of Alfajores
Alfajores are more than just cookies—they are a symbol of tradition in many cultures.
Alfajores in Argentina, Peru, and Spain
- Argentina: The country most associated with Alfajores, where they are sold everywhere from bakeries to gas stations.
- Peru: Often filled with honey or fruit jam rather than just dulce de leche.
- Spain: The original Alfajor was more like a spiced, nut-filled pastry.
Traditional vs. Modern Adaptations
- Traditional recipes stick to dulce de leche and cornstarch dough.
- Modern versions experiment with chocolate, nuts, and different fillings.
FAQs about Alfajores Recipe
What are alfajores?
Alfajores are traditional South American cookies that consist of two soft, round cookies sandwiched together with a sweet filling, typically dulce de leche. They are often dusted with powdered sugar and can also be coated in coconut or chocolate.
What ingredients do I need to make alfajores?
The basic ingredients for alfajores include flour, butter, sugar, and eggs. For the filling, you will need dulce de leche, which is a caramel-like spread made from sweetened condensed milk. Optional ingredients include coconut flakes or powdered sugar for decoration.
How do I make the dough for alfajores?
To make the dough, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs and continue mixing. Gradually incorporate flour (and cornstarch if used for extra tenderness) to form a soft dough. Chill the dough before rolling and cutting to ensure the cookies hold their shape.
What is the best way to store alfajores?
Alfajores should be stored in an airtight container to keep them soft and fresh. They can be kept at room temperature for several days or refrigerated for up to a week. Avoid storing them in humid conditions as the moisture can affect their texture.
Can I make alfajores in advance?
Yes, you can make alfajores ahead of time. The dough can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for a month. Assembled alfajores with dulce de leche can be made a day or two in advance and stored properly until ready to serve.
Are there any variations to the traditional alfajores recipe?
Many variations exist, including the addition of different flavors like lemon zest or vanilla to the cookie dough. Some recipes use chocolate or fruit jams as a filling instead of dulce de leche. Experimenting with different coatings like chocolate dip or coconut flakes can also add a unique twist to the traditional recipe.
These FAQs aim to help you master the art of making alfajores, ensuring delicious results every time you bake.
Conclusion
Alfajores are a classic treat that combines soft, buttery cookies with sweet, creamy dulce de leche. Whether you prefer them dusted with powdered sugar, dipped in chocolate, or rolled in coconut, there’s an Alfajor variation for everyone. With simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions, you can easily recreate this beloved Latin American dessert at home.
So, why not try making Alfajores today? Your taste buds will thank you!
