Alfajores with Dulce de Leche Recipe
Alfajores with Dulce de Leche
Ingredients
- 200g (1 3/4 cups) all-purpose flour
- 150g (1 1/4 cups) cornstarch (cornflour)
- 5g (1 tsp) baking powder
- 2g (1/4 tsp) salt
- 150g (2/3 cup) unsalted butter, softened
- 100g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar
- 2 large egg yolks
- 5ml (1 tsp) vanilla extract
- 30ml (2 tbsp) milk
- 400g (1 1/2 cups) Dulce de Leche
- 50g (1/2 cup) desiccated coconut (optional)
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Introduction
Welcome to the delightful world of Alfajores, a traditional treat beloved across Latin America, particularly in Argentina and Peru. These tender shortbread cookies, sandwiched with luscious Dulce de Leche and often coated in coconut or powdered sugar, are a perfect combination of sweet, crumbly, and indulgent goodness. Whether you’re familiar with these enchanting cookies or discovering them for the first time, our detailed recipe will guide you on a culinary adventure to recreate these buttery delights in your own kitchen. Let’s dive into the magic of Alfajores with Dulce de Leche!
Kitchen Equipment Required
- Mixing Bowls
- Electric Mixer
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Rolling Pin
- Cookie Cutter (Round, 2 inches / 5 cm)
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat
- Wire Rack
- Spatula
Cooking Time
Total estimated time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, using an electric mixer, cream the softened butter with the granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg yolks one at a time, then blend in vanilla extract.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Mix just until a soft dough forms. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) thickness. Using a round cookie cutter, cut out circles and place them 1 inch (2.5 cm) apart on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 5: Bake the Cookies
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Assemble the Alfajores
Once the cookies are cool, spread about 1 tablespoon of Dulce de Leche onto the bottom of one cookie, then sandwich with another cookie, pressing gently to spread the filling to the edges.
Step 7: Final Touches
Roll the edges of the filled cookies in desiccated coconut if using. Dust with powdered sugar for a classic presentation, if desired.
Conclusion
With your homemade Alfajores with Dulce de Leche in hand, you’ve crafted a confection that’s rich in tradition and flavor. These cookies offer a taste of Latin American culture that you can now share beyond borders. Their perfect blend of buttery biscuit and creamy filling is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire. Serve them with a cup of coffee or tea, and savor the joy it brings to your gatherings and taste buds alike. Enjoy this sweet success and keep experimenting for your next delightful culinary adventure!
