Desserts > International Desserts > Other International Desserts > Alfajores Recipe (South America)
Classic Alfajores: A Taste of Argentina
Indulge in the rich and delicate flavors of Alfajores, traditional South American sandwich cookies filled with luscious dulce de leche and often dusted with powdered sugar. This recipe provides a step-by-step guide to creating these delightful treats at home.
Ingredients
- 300 g All-purpose flour
- 200 g Cornstarch
- 1 tsp Baking powder
- 1/2 tsp Baking soda
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- 200 g Unsalted butter, softened
- 150 g Granulated sugar
- 3 Egg yolks
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
- 1 tsp Lemon zest
- 400 g Dulce de leche
- As needed Powdered sugar
Preparing the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that the baking powder and soda are evenly distributed, resulting in a light and tender cookie.
Creaming Butter and Sugar
In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the dough, which contributes to the cookies' delicate texture. Use an electric mixer for best results.
Adding Egg Yolks and Flavorings
Beat in the egg yolks one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest. The egg yolks add richness and moisture, while the vanilla and lemon zest enhance the flavor profile.
Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can lead to tough cookies. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky.
Chilling the Dough
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough makes it easier to handle and prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
Rolling and Cutting the Cookies
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Use a 2-inch round cookie cutter to cut out cookies. Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Baking the Cookies
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Assembling the Alfajores
Once the cookies are completely cool, spread a generous amount of dulce de leche on the flat side of one cookie and top with another cookie. Gently press the cookies together to create a sandwich.
Finishing Touches
Dust the alfajores with powdered sugar. This adds a touch of sweetness and creates a beautiful presentation.
Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product
Calories: 350-400 kcal
Fat: 20-25g
Saturated Fat: 12-15g
Cholesterol: 80-100mg
Sodium: 100-150mg
Carbohydrates: 40-45g
Sugar: 25-30g
Protein: 4-6g
Note: These values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.
Other Important Considerations for Nutrition
Alfajores are high in calories, sugar, and fat. Enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Consider using a lower-sugar dulce de leche or reducing the amount used per cookie to lower the sugar content. For a healthier option, you could experiment with using whole wheat flour, but this may affect the texture.
FAQ
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Can I use a different filling instead of dulce de leche?
Yes, you can use other fillings such as chocolate ganache, pastry cream, or fruit jam. However, dulce de leche is the traditional filling for alfajores. -
How long do alfajores last?
Alfajores can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. They may become slightly softer over time, but they will still be delicious. -
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before rolling and cutting.