Traditional Argentine Alfajores Recipe: Your Guide to Homemade South American Sweet Treats

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg yolk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon brandy (optional)
1/2 cup dulce de leche
1/2 cup shredded coconut

Steps and instructions

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and baking powder.
In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until creamy.
Add the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and brandy (if using) to the butter and sugar mixture, and beat until smooth.
Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
Use a round cookie cutter to cut out circles from the dough, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once the cookies are cool, spread a layer of dulce de leche on the flat side of half of the cookies. Top with the remaining cookies, flat side down.
Roll the edges of the cookies in the shredded coconut, pressing lightly so it sticks to the dulce de leche.

Tools for making

Mixing bowls - You'll need at least two mixing bowls to prepare the dough and mix the ingredients.
Whisk - Use a whisk to combine the dry ingredients and ensure they are evenly distributed.
Electric mixer - This will make it easier to cream the butter and sugar together until creamy.
Measuring cups and spoons - You'll need these to accurately measure the ingredients.
Rolling pin - Use a rolling pin to roll out the dough to the desired thickness.
Round cookie cutter - You'll need this to cut out the dough into round shapes.
Baking sheet - A baking sheet is necessary to place the cookies in the oven.
Parchment paper - Line the baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
Wire rack - This is used to cool the cookies after baking.

Recipe variations

Using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier option.
Adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for added flavor.
Replacing the dulce de leche with caramel sauce or fruit preserves.
Coating the edges of the cookies with chopped nuts instead of shredded coconut.
Adding lemon or orange zest to the dough for a citrusy twist.
Adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the cookies for a sweet and salty combination.
Using almond flour or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
Adding chopped chocolate or chocolate chips to the dough for a chocolatey variation.
Using different fillings such as peanut butter, Nutella, or jam.
Adding a teaspoon of espresso powder to the dough for a coffee-flavored alfajor.

Recipe overview

Welcome to our Alfajor recipe page! If you're not familiar with Alfajores, they are delicious sandwich cookies popular in South America, particularly in Argentina. They're made with two soft, delicate cookies sandwiching a layer of dulce de leche, a creamy caramel-like sauce. The edges of the cookies are then rolled in shredded coconut for an extra touch of flavor and texture. This recipe is perfect for any home baker looking to try something a little different, and they make a great treat for parties or family gatherings. So, let's dive in and start baking!

Common questions

Can I substitute the all-purpose flour with a different type of flour?
Yes, you can try using whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute for all-purpose flour. However, the texture and taste of the cookies may vary slightly.
Can I skip the brandy?
Absolutely! The brandy is optional and can be omitted from the recipe without affecting the overall outcome.
Can I use store-bought dulce de leche instead of making it from scratch?
Yes, you can use store-bought dulce de leche if desired. It will save you time and effort in the preparation process.
How should I store the alfajores?
To keep the alfajores fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should last for about a week.
Can I freeze the baked cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the baked cookies. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating the layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be stored in the freezer for up to a month. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing bowls - Use mixing bowls to combine the dry ingredients and to beat the butter and sugar together.
Whisk - Use a whisk to thoroughly mix the dry ingredients together.
Electric mixer - An electric mixer will make it easier to beat the butter and sugar together until creamy.
Rolling pin - Use a rolling pin to roll out the cookie dough to the desired thickness.
Round cookie cutter - A round cookie cutter will help you create uniform circles from the cookie dough.
Baking sheet - Use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to bake the cookies in the oven.
Wire rack - After baking, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
Knife or offset spatula - Use a knife or offset spatula to spread the dulce de leche onto the cookies.

Origin stories

Alfajores have a rich and storied past, tracing their roots back to the Arab world. The name itself, Alfajor, is derived from the Arabic al-hasú, which means filled or stuffed. These treats were brought to the Americas, particularly South America, by Spanish settlers, and they quickly became a staple sweet in many countries, each adding their own twist to the recipe. The Argentinian version, which is what this recipe is based on, is particularly popular. They take the traditional shortbread cookies, fill them with creamy dulce de leche, and roll them in shredded coconut for a sweet finish. It's said that in Argentina, over 6 million alfajores are consumed every day. Now, that's a sweet fact!

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.