Alfajores

Introduction

If you’ve ever had the pleasure of tasting Alfajores, you know they’re a little piece of heaven in each bite. These Latin treats are not only incredibly delicious but also boast a melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes them utterly irresistible. Imagine two buttery, shortbread-like cookies filled with rich dulce de leche and rolled in coconut. It’s no wonder Alfajores are beloved in many parts of Latin America and beyond. Whether you’re looking for a sweet addition to a holiday spread or simply craving something that’s both indulgent and comforting, Alfajores are the perfect choice.

In this guide, we’re going to dive deep into the delightful world of Alfajores. I’ll share the recipe, tips, and tricks for making these delectable cookies at home. So, grab your apron, get ready to bake, and let’s make Alfajores that will wow your taste buds and anyone lucky enough to sample them!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Alfajores have earned their place in hearts and kitchens around the world. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:

• Irresistibly Soft and Buttery: These cookies practically melt in your mouth, making them a sweet indulgence everyone will love.
• Classic Latin Flavor: The combination of dulce de leche and coconut gives these cookies an authentic and comforting Latin flavor.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with basic pantry staples, these treats are easy to whip up even on short notice.
• Customizable: Feel free to switch up the filling or coating based on your preferences.
• Perfect for Sharing: Whether for a holiday or a casual gathering, these cookies are perfect for sharing with friends and family.
• Kid-Friendly: The delicate sweetness of Alfajores makes them a hit with kids—who doesn’t love something sweet and soft?
• Impressive, Yet Easy: Alfajores have that “wow” factor, but the recipe is simple enough that even beginner bakers can pull it off.
• Make-Ahead Treat: These cookies store well and even improve in flavor after a day or two, making them perfect for prepping in advance.

Preparation Time and Cook Time

• Total Time: 2 hours (including chilling time)
• Preparation Time: 1 hour
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Chilling Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 24 cookies
• Calories per cookie: Approximately 180 calories
• Key Nutrients: Fiber: 1g, Fat: 9g, Carbohydrates: 24g, Protein: 2g

Ingredients

Before you start, gather these simple ingredients to make your Alfajores:

For the Cookies:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons rum (optional, but it adds a nice depth of flavor)

the Filling:

• 1 cup dulce de leche (store-bought or homemade)

For Coating:

• 1 cup shredded coconut (unsweetened)

Ingredient Highlights

• Dulce de Leche: The sweet caramel-like filling that makes Alfajores so special. It’s a staple in Latin American desserts and adds a rich, creamy flavor to these cookies.
• Cornstarch: This helps give the cookies their delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture, which is a hallmark of Alfajores.
• Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the salt levels and ensure the cookies remain sweet and rich.
• Shredded Coconut: A traditional coating for Alfajores, adding texture and a tropical flair.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to make your own Alfajores? Follow these simple steps to bake your way to deliciousness!

Make the Cookie Dough

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
3. Add Vanilla and Egg: Mix in the vanilla extract and egg, beating until incorporated.
4. Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, stirring until just combined. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky.
5. Chill the Dough: Divide the dough into two halves, flatten each half into a disk, and wrap it in plastic wrap. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step helps the cookies hold their shape when baking.

Shape and Bake the Cookies

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thick. Use a round cookie cutter (about 2 inches in diameter) to cut out circles.
3. Bake the Cookies: Place the cookie circles on the prepared baking sheets, leaving a little space between each one. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake, as the cookies should remain soft.
4. Cool the Cookies: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Assemble the Alfajores

1. Fill the Cookies: Once the cookies have cooled, spread a generous amount of dulce de leche on the flat side of one cookie. Sandwich it with another cookie to create a cookie sandwich.
2. Roll in Coconut: Roll the edges of the cookie sandwich in the shredded coconut, pressing gently to ensure it sticks.

How to Serve

Alfajores are perfect for so many occasions. Here are a few ideas for serving them:

1. Dessert Platter: Arrange Alfajores on a beautiful serving platter for an elegant dessert spread.
2. Tea Time: Pair with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or even a warm chocolate drink for a cozy snack.
3. Gift-Worthy: Package these cookies in decorative boxes or cellophane bags for an impressive homemade gift.
4. At a Party: Serve them at gatherings, whether it’s a holiday celebration or just a fun afternoon with friends.

Additional Tips

Here are a few tips to make your Alfajores extra special:

1. Chill the Dough Well: Don’t skip the chilling step! It helps the dough firm up and makes the cookies easier to handle.
2. Use Fresh Coconut: For an extra touch, you can toast the shredded coconut lightly in the oven to bring out its natural sweetness and flavor.
3. Perfect Size: Use a 2-inch round cookie cutter for the ideal size. If the cookies are too large, they can become too heavy for the delicate texture.
4. Homemade Dulce de Leche: If you have the time, making homemade dulce de leche is a great way to add an extra personal touch to your Alfajores.
5. Roll in Powdered Sugar: For a lighter version, you can also roll the finished cookies in powdered sugar instead of coconut.

Recipe Variations

Get creative with your Alfajores and try these variations:

• Chocolate Alfajores: Add ¼ cup cocoa powder to the dough for a chocolatey twist.
• Nutty Coating: Roll the cookies in finely chopped nuts, such as almonds or hazelnuts, for a crunchy contrast to the soft cookie.
• Fruit Filling: Experiment with different fillings like raspberry jam or lemon curd for a fruity spin on this classic dessert.
• Spiced Alfajores: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom to the dough for a warm, spiced flavor.

Freezing and Storage

Alfajores store beautifully, and freezing them is a great option if you want to prepare in advance:

• Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They’ll stay fresh and soft.
• Freezing: Freeze the baked cookies (before assembling) for up to 3 months. Let them cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap before placing in a freezer bag. When ready to serve, thaw and then assemble with the dulce de leche.
• Dulce de Leche: You can freeze leftover dulce de leche for up to a month. Just thaw before using.

Special Equipment

These tools will make your Alfajores baking process a breeze:

• Rolling Pin: To roll out the dough evenly.
• Cookie Cutters: A 2-inch round cutter is perfect for this recipe.
• Parchment Paper: To prevent the cookies from sticking to the baking sheet.
• Cooling Rack: To cool your cookies evenly and avoid sogginess.
• Plastic Wrap: To wrap the dough while chilling.

FAQ Section

Here are some frequently asked questions about Alfajores:

• Can I use dulce de leche from a can?
  Yes, store-bought dulce de leche works perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure to choose a good-quality brand.
• Can I make the dough in advance?
• Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and chill it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, simply roll it out and proceed with the recipe.
• What if I don’t like coconut?
  If you’re not a fan of coconut, you can skip the coconut coating or try rolling the cookies in powdered sugar instead.

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Conclusion

Alfajores are such a delightful treat, filled with a rich, buttery flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth texture. These soft, shortbread-like cookies are sandwiched with a luscious layer of dulce de leche, making them the ultimate indulgence. They’re perfect for any occasion—whether you’re sipping coffee with friends, sharing them as a thoughtful gift during the holidays, or simply enjoying a cozy snack on your own.

Making alfajores at home is a true joy. The dough is easy to work with, and the scent of freshly baked cookies fills your kitchen with warmth and comfort. Once they’re baked, the cookies are dipped in powdered sugar, giving them that delicate, snow-dusted look. The combination of the crumbly cookies and the creamy, sweet filling is simply irresistible.

The beauty of alfajores is that they’re incredibly versatile too. You can switch up the filling if you like, using fruit jams or even chocolate ganache, but the traditional dulce de leche is my favorite. They also store well, so you can enjoy them over a few days or package them up for a special gift.

So go ahead and make a batch of these heavenly treats, and don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on social media—I love seeing your delicious creations! Enjoy!