Deliciously Decadent: Mastering the Perfect Alfajores at Home

Introduction

Alfajores are a beloved treat in Latin America, particularly in Argentina and Peru. These delightful cookies consist of two delicate, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread discs filled with a luscious layer of dulce de leche and often rolled in shredded coconut or cacao powder. Perfect as a snack or dessert, alfajores are a true expression of indulgence. Making your own alfajores at home not only allows you to control the ingredients but also gives you the joy of crafting these delicate treats from scratch. Let’s delve into mastering the perfect alfajores that will impress your family and friends!

Ingredient List

For the Cookie Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cornstarch (for added tenderness)
• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened, at room temperature)
• ½ cup powdered sugar (plus extra for dusting)
• 1 large egg yolk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

• 1 cup dulce de leche (store-bought or homemade; see tips below)

For the Coating:

• ½ cup shredded coconut (unsweetened) or cacao powder (for dusting)

Preparation Time

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Chilling Time: 1 hour (or overnight)
• Baking Time: 10-12 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 1.5-2 hours (including chilling)

Servings

This recipe yields about 24 alfajores, serving approximately 12 people (2 alfajores per person).

Preparation Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Cookie Dough

1. Mixing Dry Ingredients:

   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside.

2. Creaming the Butter and Sugar:

   • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with powdered sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until creamy and light in color (about 3-5 minutes). This step is crucial for creating a light texture.

3. Incorporating Egg and Vanilla:

   • Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, mixing until everything is combined well.

4. Adding Dry Ingredients:

   • Gradually incorporate the flour mixture into the creamed butter using a spatula or mixer on low speed until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.

Step 2: Chilling the Dough

1. Shaping the Dough:

   • Turn the dough out onto a clean, lightly floured surface. Gently pat it into a disc shape.

2. Wrapping and Refrigerating:

   • Wrap the disc in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour, or overnight for deeper flavor and easier handling.

Step 3: Rolling and Baking Cookies

1. Preheating the Oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. Rolling the Dough:

   • Once chilled, take the dough out of the refrigerator and let it sit for about 10 minutes for easier rolling. Flour your working surface and roll the dough out to about 1/8-inch thickness.

3. Cutting the Cookies:

   • Use a round cookie cutter (2 to 2.5 inches in diameter) to cut out the cookies. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, spaced about 1 inch apart.

4. Baking:

   • Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking, as the cookies should remain pale.

Step 4: Assembling the Alfajores

1. Coating Preparation:

   • Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack. Once they are cool, prepare the shredded coconut or cacao powder as a coating.

2. Filling:

   • Spread about 1 tablespoon of dulce de leche on the underside of one cookie, then gently sandwich it with a second cookie. Repeat this with the remaining cookies.

3. Coating:

   • Roll the edges of each alfajor in the shredded coconut or dust them with cocoa powder. For a more elegant presentation, you can sprinkle powdered sugar on top.

Tips for Perfect Alfajores

• Dulce de Leche: If you want to make your own dulce de leche, simply simmer a can of sweetened condensed milk in water for about 2 hours, ensuring the water level stays above the can. Allow it to cool before using.

• Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different flavors! Consider adding lemon or orange zest to the dough, or using chocolate or flavored dulce de leche for unique twists.

• Storing Alfajores: These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or refrigerated for longer shelf life.

Conclusion

Making alfajores at home is a delightful culinary adventure, resulting in delectable treats that are perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own. The combination of buttery cookies, sweet dulce de leche, and a soft coating creates a truly luxurious dessert experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, mastering the art of alfajores is a skill worth having. Enjoy the process and the delicious results, and don’t forget to share (or not)—the choice is yours!