Alfajores Dulce De Leche Sandwich Cookies

Imagine biting into a cookie that melts in your mouth, revealing a rich, creamy filling that transports you straight to the streets of Buenos Aires. Alfajores are not just cookies; they are a delightful experience that combines tradition, flavor, and texture in every bite. Originating from the Middle East and brought to South America by Spanish colonizers, these sandwich cookies have become a beloved treat in many Latin American countries, especially Argentina. The classic version features two delicate cookies filled with luscious dulce de leche and often dusted with powdered sugar or rolled in coconut. With their tender crumb and sweet filling, alfajores are perfect for any occasion—be it a casual afternoon snack, a sophisticated dessert for guests, or a sweet addition to a festive celebration. In this recipe, we will guide you through creating your own alfajores dulce de leche sandwich cookies that will impress friends and family alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

First and foremost, the taste of these alfajores is simply irresistible. The combination of the buttery cookie and the sweet, caramel-like dulce de leche creates a flavor profile that is rich yet balanced, making it hard to have just one. Secondly, the preparation of these cookies is refreshingly straightforward. With just a handful of ingredients and a few steps, you can create a batch of alfajores that look and taste like they came from a bakery. This means you can spend less time stressing in the kitchen and more time enjoying your delicious creations. Lastly, the visual appeal of alfajores cannot be understated. Their delicate appearance, often sprinkled with powdered sugar or rolled in shredded coconut, makes them a stunning addition to any dessert table, sure to entice anyone who lays eyes on them. The combination of flavor, ease of preparation, and beautiful presentation makes this recipe a must-try for anyone looking to indulge in a little piece of Latin American heritage.

Ingredients:

To create the perfect alfajores dulce de leche sandwich cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened) – Butter is essential for that rich flavor and tender texture. Make sure it is at room temperature to ensure proper mixing.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar – This will sweeten the cookies while contributing to their lovely texture.
• 1 large egg yolk – The yolk adds richness and color to the dough, enhancing the overall flavor.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – A hint of vanilla complements the flavors of the cookies beautifully. Ensure it’s a quality extract for the best taste.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour – This is the base of the cookies, providing structure and stability. Use a good quality flour for optimal results.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder – This leavening agent helps the cookies rise slightly, giving them a tender crumb.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – A pinch of salt enhances the flavors of the cookies and balances the sweetness.
• 1 cup dulce de leche – The star of the show! This creamy caramel-like filling is what makes alfajores truly special. You can find it in stores or make it from scratch.
• Powdered sugar (for dusting) – This adds a sweet, decorative touch to the finished cookies.
• Shredded coconut (optional) – For an extra layer of flavor and texture, consider rolling the edges of the cookies in shredded coconut.

These ingredients combine to create a delightful treat that is both traditional and beloved. Every element plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect alfajores, from the buttery cookie to the sweet filling. Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best results!

How To Make Alfajores Dulce De Leche Sandwich Cookies?

Creating these delightful cookies is easier than you might think. Follow these detailed steps for a successful batch of alfajores:

1. Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This can take about 3-5 minutes. Once combined, add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, mixing well until fully incorporated.
2. Combine the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to tougher cookies.
3. Chill the dough: Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each into a disk. Wrap each disk in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling the dough makes it easier to roll out and helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking.
4. Preheat the oven: While the dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
5. Roll out the dough: Once chilled, take one disk of dough out of the refrigerator. On a lightly floured surface, roll it out to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a cookie cutter (2-3 inches in diameter) to cut out rounds. Place the rounds on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about an inch apart.
6. Bake the cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep a close eye on them, as they can brown quickly. Remove them from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Assemble the alfajores: Once the cookies have cooled, spread a generous spoonful of dulce de leche on the flat side of one cookie. Top it with another cookie, pressing gently to create a sandwich. Repeat with the remaining cookies.
8. Finish with powdered sugar: To add a touch of sweetness and elegance, dust the assembled alfajores with powdered sugar just before serving. If you’re using shredded coconut, roll the edges of the cookies in it for an added texture and flavor.

And there you have it! A batch of delicious alfajores dulce de leche sandwich cookies ready to be enjoyed. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to delight everyone who tries them.

Tips For Variations:

While the classic alfajores recipe is undeniably delicious, there are numerous ways to customize your cookies for a unique twist. Here are some variations you might consider:

• Chocolate Alfajores: For chocolate lovers, you can incorporate cocoa powder into the dough. Substitute 1/3 cup of all-purpose flour with unsweetened cocoa powder to create a rich chocolate cookie. Pair it with chocolate dulce de leche for an indulgent treat.
• Flavored Dulce de Leche: Experiment with flavored dulce de leche by infusing it with espresso, orange zest, or even a hint of cinnamon. This will add a new layer of complexity to the filling.
• Nuts and Spices: Add finely chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, to the cookie dough for added crunch. Alternatively, a pinch of spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavor profile of the cookies.
• Decorative Touches: Instead of simply dusting with powdered sugar, consider dipping half of each cookie in melted chocolate and then rolling it in crushed nuts or coconut for a gourmet finish.
• Mini Alfajores: For bite-sized treats, use a smaller cookie cutter to create mini alfajores. These are perfect for parties or gatherings where you want to offer a variety of desserts.

These variations not only enhance the flavor but also allow you to tailor the cookies to suit different occasions or personal preferences. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make them your own!

Serving Suggestions:

Alfajores dulce de leche sandwich cookies are versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions:

• With Coffee or Tea: Serve alfajores alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea. The sweetness of the cookies pairs beautifully with the bitterness of coffee or the subtle flavors of tea, making for a delightful afternoon treat.
• As a Dessert Platter: Create an elegant dessert platter by arranging the alfajores with other treats, such as fresh fruit, chocolate-covered strawberries, or assorted pastries. This presentation will impress guests at any gathering.
• Ice Cream Sandwiches: For a fun twist, turn alfajores into ice cream sandwiches. Simply place a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies and enjoy a refreshing dessert on warm days.
• Gifts from the Kitchen: Package the alfajores in decorative boxes or bags to give as gifts. They make for a thoughtful and delicious present for birthdays, holidays, or just because.
• At Parties and Celebrations: Alfajores are perfect for celebrations. Whether it’s a birthday, wedding, or holiday gathering, these cookies will surely be a hit. Serve them on a beautiful cake stand for an eye-catching display.

Whether you’re enjoying them yourself or sharing with others, these serving suggestions will elevate your alfajores experience and make any occasion special.

FAQ:

Can I make the dough in advance?

Yes! The dough can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.

What is the best way to store alfajores?

Store alfajores in an airtight container at room temperature. They will keep fresh for about a week. For longer storage, consider refrigerating or freezing them.

Can I use store-bought dulce de leche?

Absolutely! Store-bought dulce de leche is a convenient option and works perfectly for filling your alfajores. Just ensure it’s a quality brand for the best flavor.

What can I use instead of powdered sugar for decoration?

If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use finely crushed nuts or cocoa powder to roll the cookies in. This adds a unique touch while still enhancing the presentation.

Are alfajores gluten-free?

To make gluten-free alfajores, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend contains a binder, like xanthan gum, for the best texture.