If you've never tried alfajores, you're in for a treat! These sweet, melt-in-your-mouth cookies are a classic in many Latin American countries, especially Argentina. But what makes these cookies so special?
The delicate shortbread texture and the luscious filling of dulce de leche make them irresistible. We can't wait to share our version of this traditional treat with you!
What Are Alfajores?
Alfajores are buttery shortbread cookies typically filled with dulce de leche—a rich caramel-like spread that's popular in Latin American desserts. The cookies are often dusted with powdered sugar or dipped in chocolate for added sweetness. They're the perfect bite-sized indulgence, and once you taste them, you'll be hooked!
Why We Love Alfajores
The thing we love most about alfajores is how versatile they are. You can make them to fit any occasion. Whether you're preparing them for a special celebration or simply enjoying a sweet snack with your afternoon tea, alfajores are always a hit. Their light, buttery texture paired with the creamy dulce de leche creates a perfect balance that's both comforting and satisfying. Plus, they're super fun to make!
Ingredients You'll Need
To make alfajores at home, you'll need just a few basic ingredients. These include:
• Butter: The star of the shortbread dough, providing that rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Cornstarch: This ingredient helps achieve the perfect soft and delicate cookie texture.
• All-purpose flour: The foundation of the dough, ensuring the cookies hold their shape.
• Dulce de leche: The irresistible caramel filling that gives these cookies their signature taste.
• Powdered sugar: For dusting the cookies and giving them that classic sweet touch.
• Eggs and vanilla: For binding the dough and adding flavor.
How to Make Alfajores
Making alfajores is easier than you might think! Here's a step-by-step guide to help you recreate this delicious treat at home:
1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine softened butter with cornstarch, flour, and powdered sugar. Beat in the egg and vanilla until the dough forms. It should be smooth and slightly sticky.
2. Roll the Dough: Once the dough is ready, roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Using a cookie cutter, cut out circles of dough.
3. Bake: Place the cookie rounds on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let the cookies cool completely before filling.
4. Fill and Assemble: Once the cookies are cool, spread a generous amount of dulce de leche on one cookie and top with another to form a sandwich. Repeat with the remaining cookies.
5. Dust with Powdered Sugar: For the final touch, dust the alfajores with powdered sugar. You can also dip the edges in melted chocolate for an extra indulgence.
Why You Should Try Making Alfajores
There's something magical about homemade treats, and alfajores are no exception. The combination of a simple, buttery dough and sweet, gooey filling is the kind of thing that makes any day feel like a special occasion. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a beginner, these cookies are fun to make and will impress anyone who tries them.
Making alfajores is a great way to bond with friends or family over the kitchen counter, and they make for an impressive homemade gift. Plus, they're so much more delicious when you can say you made them yourself!
Alfajores Cookies Recipe
Video by The Cooking Foodie
Tips for Perfect Alfajores
• Don't overbake the cookies: They should be just lightly golden on the edges, not browned. Overbaking can cause them to lose that melt-in-your-mouth softness.
• Chill the dough: If the dough is too soft to handle, pop it in the fridge for 30 minutes to make it easier to roll and cut.
• Use high-quality dulce de leche: The filling is what makes these cookies stand out, so don't skimp on the quality of the dulce de leche.
Alfajores are a delightful and easy-to-make treat that will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply craving something sweet, these cookies will never disappoint. We hope you give them a try, and we're sure you'll love them just as much as we do!
