ALFAJORES

Alfajores are delightful, melt-in-your-mouth cookies that hail from South America, particularly popular in countries like Argentina and Peru. These delicate treats consist of two soft, buttery cookies sandwiching a luscious layer of dulce de leche, a rich caramel-like filling made from sweetened condensed milk. Often dusted with powdered sugar or rolled in coconut, alfajores offer a perfect balance of sweetness and texture, making them an irresistible indulgence. Ideal for special occasions or as a sweet afternoon snack with coffee or tea, these cookies are sure to captivate your taste buds with their exquisite flavor and tender crumb.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon

For the Filling:

• 1 cup dulce de leche (store-bought or homemade)

For Garnish:

• Powdered sugar, for dusting
• 1 cup shredded coconut (optional)

Instructions

1. Make the cookie dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and lemon zest, mixing well.
2. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
3. Chill the dough: Divide the dough in half, wrap each half in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until firm.
4. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
5. Roll and cut the cookies: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion of dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use a round cookie cutter (about 2 inches in diameter) to cut out cookies. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Repeat with the remaining dough.
6. Bake the cookies: Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until they are just set and lightly golden around the edges. Allow them 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 are completely cool, spread a generous amount of dulce de leche onto the bottom of one cookie, then top with another cookie to create a sandwich. If desired, roll the edges in shredded coconut.
8. Garnish: Dust the assembled alfajores with powdered sugar.

Enjoy your Alfajores as a delightful and indulgent treat that brings the taste of South America to your home, perfect for sharing with friends and family.