Alfajores
Indulge in the irresistible charm of alfajores, exquisite sandwich cookies that are a staple in South American cuisine. These delicate treats are made from two buttery cookies filled with luscious dulce de leche and rolled in coconut or powdered sugar. Perfect for sharing or enjoying with a cup of coffee, alfajores are sure to delight anyone with a sweet tooth. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will transport your taste buds to a world of sweetness!
Ingredients
Here is the list of ingredients.
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 12 alfajores, with a preparation time of 30 minutes and a cooking time of 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 alfajor) contains approximately 150 calories, 8g fat, 20g carbohydrates, 1g protein, and 10g sugar. This is based on a standard-sized alfajor.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder.
- In another bowl, cream 1/2 cup of unsalted butter and 1/2 cup of sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add 1 egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the butter mixture, and mix well.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined.
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
- Cut out circles using a cookie cutter and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
- Let the cookies cool completely before filling with dulce de leche and dusting with powdered sugar.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. Additionally, replace dulce de leche with chocolate ganache or fruit preserves for a different flavor profile.
Serving and Pairings
Alfajores are perfect on their own or paired with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk. They also make a great addition to dessert platters or as a sweet gift.
Storage and Reheating
Store alfajores in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using cold butter instead of room temperature can lead to dense cookies.
- Overbaking will make the cookies hard instead of soft and chewy.
- Not refrigerating the dough may result in cookies spreading too much.
- Skipping the sifting of flour can lead to uneven texture.
- Forgetting to cool cookies before filling may cause them to break.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different fillings like chocolate or fruit jams.
- Chill the filled alfajores for a firmer texture.
- Decorate with nuts or chocolate drizzle for added flair.
- Use a scale for accurate ingredient measurements.
FAQs
What are alfajores made of?
Alfajores are typically made from flour, butter, sugar, and eggs, filled with dulce de leche and often coated with powdered sugar or coconut.
Where did alfajores originate?
Alfajores trace their origins to the Moorish influence in Spain, and they became popular in Latin America, especially in Argentina and Peru.
How long do alfajores last?
When stored properly in an airtight container, alfajores can last up to a week at room temperature or three months in the freezer.
Can I make alfajores ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cookies in advance and assemble them just before serving to maintain their freshness.
What can I substitute for dulce de leche?
Alternatives for dulce de leche include chocolate ganache, caramel sauce, or fruit jams for a different flavor variation.
Conclusion
Alfajores are a delightful treat that brings a taste of South America to your kitchen. With their sweet filling and buttery cookies, they are perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed with friends or as a personal indulgence, alfajores are sure to satisfy your sweet cravings!
Alfajores
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup dulce de leche
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder.
- In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix well.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined.
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
- Cut out circles using a cookie cutter and place them on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
- Once cooled, fill with dulce de leche and dust with powdered sugar.
