International Cuisine > Argentine Cuisine > Desserts (Argentine) > Dulce de Leche Desserts
Classic Argentine Alfajores with Dulce de Leche
Indulge in the sweet delight of authentic Argentine Alfajores. These delicate shortbread cookies, filled with creamy dulce de leche and dusted with powdered sugar, are a perfect treat for any occasion. This recipe provides a step-by-step guide to creating these iconic Argentine pastries in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
- 250 g All-purpose flour
- 250 g Cornstarch
- 1 tsp Baking powder
- 1/2 tsp Baking soda
- 200 g Unsalted butter, softened
- 150 g Granulated sugar
- 3 Egg yolks
- 1 tsp Lemon zest
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
- 500 g Dulce de leche
- For dusting Powdered sugar
Preparing the Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and baking soda. This ensures the dry ingredients are evenly distributed. In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving a tender cookie. Beat in the egg yolks one at a time, then stir in the lemon zest and vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies. Form the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough prevents it from spreading too much during baking.
Rolling and Cutting the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 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 circles. Carefully transfer the cookies to the prepared baking sheet. Gather the scraps, re-roll, and cut out more cookies until all the dough is used.
Baking the Alfajores
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The cookies should be pale in color, not browned. 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 layer of dulce de leche on the flat side of one cookie. Top with another cookie, flat side down, to create a sandwich. Gently press the cookies together. Repeat with the remaining cookies and dulce de leche.
Finishing Touches
Dust the assembled alfajores generously with powdered sugar. This adds a touch of sweetness and a beautiful presentation. Enjoy immediately, or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product
Note: These are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Calories: 350-400
Total Fat: 18-22g
Saturated Fat: 10-12g
Cholesterol: 80-100mg
Sodium: 100-150mg
Total Carbohydrate: 45-55g
Dietary Fiber: 1-2g
Sugars: 25-30g
Protein: 4-6g
Other Important Considerations for Nutrition
This recipe contains high levels of sugar and fat. Consumption should be moderate, especially for individuals with dietary restrictions or health concerns. Consider using sugar substitutes or reducing the amount of sugar for a healthier version. Adjust portion sizes to manage caloric intake. Be mindful of allergies related to dairy, gluten, and eggs. Always check ingredients for potential allergens.
FAQ
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Can I use a different filling instead of dulce de leche?
While dulce de leche is the traditional filling, you can experiment with other options like chocolate ganache, jam, or even peanut butter. -
My cookies spread too much during baking. What can I do?
Make sure your butter is not too soft and that you chill the dough for a sufficient amount of time. You can also try adding a tablespoon or two of extra flour to the dough. -
How long do alfajores last?
Alfajores are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They may become slightly softer over time.