Alfajores: A Taste of South America

 

 Alfajores: South America's Sweet Sandwich Cookie

Alfajores are a beloved treat across South America, known for their delicate texture and rich, caramel-like filling. These sandwich cookies, often made with buttery shortbread and filled with dulce de leche, are a celebration of flavor and tradition. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or as a dessert, alfajores are sure to delight your taste buds.

 

Ingredients:

For the cookies:

 

2 cups all-purpose flour

 

1 cup cornstarch

 

1 teaspoon baking powder

 

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

 

1/4 teaspoon salt

 

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

 

1/2 cup granulated sugar

 

4 large egg yolks

 

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

 

Zest of 1 lemon

 

For the filling:

 

1 cup dulce de leche

 

3/4 cup shredded coconut (optional, for rolling)

 

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, beat the butter and sugar until creamy. Add the egg yolks, vanilla extract, and lemon zest, mixing until combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, forming a soft dough. Wrap the dough in plastic and refrigerate for 2 hours.

 

Shape and Bake: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use a round cookie cutter to cut out circles and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are set but not browned. Cool completely on a wire rack.

 

Assemble the Cookies: Spread a generous dollop of dulce de leche on the flat side of one cookie. Top with another cookie, pressing gently to create a sandwich. Roll the edges in shredded coconut for added texture and flavor.

 

Serve and Enjoy: Dust the alfajores with powdered sugar before serving. Store them in an airtight container for up to a week.