Alfajores are a classic treat featuring soft, delicate biscuits sandwiched together with a creamy dulce de leche filling. The cookies, made with a combination of cornstarch and flour, have a light, melt-in-your-mouth texture that pairs perfectly with the rich caramel filling. Optionally, you can roll the edges in shredded coconut for a delightful touch. This simple, yet indulgent, recipe is perfect for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this recipe because it combines the buttery goodness of homemade cookies with the luscious, sweet filling of dulce de leche. The cornstarch in the dough gives the cookies their signature softness and fragility, while the dulce de leche adds richness and sweetness. The option to roll the edges in shredded coconut adds a lovely texture and flavor contrast. These cookies are perfect for sharing, gifting, or enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea. They’re easy to make, but feel special and indulgent.
The Perfect Occasion
These classic alfajores are ideal for holidays, celebrations, or as a sweet treat for family and friends. Their delicate appearance and rich flavor make them perfect for special occasions like birthdays or festive gatherings, but they’re also great for everyday indulgence. Since they store well, alfajores are an excellent choice for making ahead and gifting during the holiday season or serving at a tea party.
Decoration Tips
To give your alfajores a beautiful finish, roll the edges in shredded coconut after assembling them with the dulce de leche filling. This not only adds a lovely visual contrast but also a delightful flavor and texture. You can also lightly dust the tops of the cookies with powdered sugar for an extra touch of elegance. For a festive twist, drizzle melted chocolate over the tops of the cookies before serving.
Ingredients:
For the Cookies:
- 225g cornstarch
- 130g all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 175g unsalted butter, softened
- 75g granulated sugar (about 1/3 cup)
- 4 egg yolks
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp lemon zest (optional)
For the Filling:
- Dulce de leche
Optional Coating:
- Shredded coconut
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a bowl, sift together the cornstarch, flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
- In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg yolks, vanilla extract, and lemon zest (if using) to the butter mixture. Mix until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until the dough comes together. The dough should be soft and smooth.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow it to firm up.
- Shape the Cookies:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface or between two sheets of baking paper to about 5mm (1/4 inch) thick.
- Use a 2-inch cookie cutter to cut out circles from the dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the Cookies:
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. The cookies should remain pale but firm to the touch.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
- Assemble the Alfajores:
- Spread about 1 tablespoon of dulce de leche on the flat side of one cookie, then sandwich it with another cookie.
- Optional: Roll the edges of the filled alfajores in shredded coconut for an added touch.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the alfajores with a cup of tea or coffee. Handle the cookies with care, as they are fragile. Store them in an airtight container for up to a week.
Enjoy! These classic alfajores are tender, buttery, and filled with sweet dulce de leche—a perfect treat for any time of day!
