Alfajores are traditional South American cookies that are beloved for their tender, buttery texture and rich dulce de leche filling. Originating from Argentina, these cookies are often dusted with powdered sugar and sometimes dipped in chocolate or rolled in coconut. Perfect for holiday gatherings, special occasions, or simply as an indulgent treat, alfajores are sure to impress with their melt-in-your-mouth goodness. This step-by-step guide will help you create these delightful cookies at home, allowing you to experience a taste of South American tradition.
Ingredients for Alfajores Cookies
For the Cookies:
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups
- Cornstarch: 1 cup
- Baking powder: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
- Unsalted butter: 1 cup (2 sticks), room temperature
- Granulated sugar: 1/2 cup
- Egg yolks: 3 large, room temperature
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
- Lemon zest: 1 teaspoon, finely grated
For the Filling:
- Dulce de leche: 1 can (14 ounces)
For the Decoration:
- Powdered sugar: For dusting
- Shredded coconut: Optional, for rolling the edges
How to Make Alfajores Cookies
1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. Sifting ensures that the dry ingredients are well-combined and free of lumps, which helps achieve a smooth cookie dough.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the dough, which contributes to the cookies’ tender texture.
3. Add the Egg Yolks and Vanilla
Add the egg yolks one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract and lemon zest until fully combined. The yolks add richness to the dough, while the vanilla and lemon zest enhance the flavor.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies. The dough should come together into a smooth, cohesive mass.
5. Chill the Dough
Divide the dough into two equal portions, shape each into a disc, and wrap them in plastic wrap. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. Chilling helps to firm up the dough, making it easier to roll out and cut into shapes.
6. Roll and Cut the Dough
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch. Use a round cookie cutter (about 2 inches in diameter) to cut out circles of dough. Transfer the cut cookies to the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
7. Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden. The cookies should remain pale in color. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Assemble the Alfajores
Once the cookies have cooled, spread a generous amount of dulce de leche onto the flat side of half of the cookies. Top each with another cookie, flat side down, to create a sandwich. Press gently to adhere.
9. Decorate the Cookies
If desired, roll the edges of the filled cookies in shredded coconut for an extra touch of flavor and texture. Dust the tops of the cookies with powdered sugar just before serving.
About the Main Ingredients
All-Purpose Flour
All-purpose flour provides the structure for the cookies. The combination of flour and cornstarch helps to create a tender, crumbly texture that is characteristic of alfajores.
Cornstarch
Cornstarch is a key ingredient in alfajores, contributing to their melt-in-your-mouth texture. It helps to lighten the dough and create a delicate crumb.
Unsalted Butter
Butter adds richness and flavor to the cookies. Using room temperature butter allows it to cream properly with the sugar, incorporating air and resulting in a light, fluffy dough.
Dulce de Leche
Dulce de leche is a sweet, caramel-like spread made from slowly cooked sweetened milk. It serves as the filling for alfajores, providing a creamy, indulgent center that contrasts beautifully with the tender cookies.
Egg Yolks
Egg yolks add richness and a tender texture to the cookie dough. They also help to bind the ingredients together, ensuring a smooth, cohesive dough.
Lemon Zest
Lemon zest adds a subtle citrus flavor that brightens the cookies and complements the sweetness of the dulce de leche. It’s an optional but recommended addition for an extra layer of flavor.
Alfajores are a delightful treat that bring a taste of South American tradition to your kitchen. With their tender, buttery cookies and rich dulce de leche filling, they are perfect for any occasion. This step-by-step guide ensures that you can recreate these delicious cookies at home, impressing your family and friends with your baking skills. Enjoy the process of making alfajores and savor each bite of these delectable cookies.
