Alfajores - Argentine cookies with dulce de leche

Alfajores - Argentine Cookies with Dulce de Leche I invite you to discover a delicious and soulful recipe together: Alfajores, those tender Argentine cookies filled with dulce de leche. These delights are not just a dessert but also a story about tradition, family, and moments of joy. So get ready to delight your taste buds and impress your guests with this easy-to-make recipe! Preparation time: 30 minutes Baking time: 10-12 minutes Total time: 2 hours and 30 minutes (including resting time) Number of servings: 20-24 cookies Ingredients: - 90 g of flour (or 110 g for a less sticky dough) - 190 g of cornstarch - 150 g of butter, at room temperature - 115 g of sugar - 1 teaspoon of vanilla - 1 egg - 1 egg yolk - 1 teaspoon of baking powder - 1 can of dulce de leche (or jam, depending on preferences) - Powdered sugar for decoration The Story of Alfajores Alfajores have a rich history, being considered a symbol of hospitality in many cultures. Their origins are lost in the mists of time, but today they are appreciated and loved around the world. Whether served at a party, with coffee, or simply as a snack during the day, these cookies bring a touch of magic to every moment. Step by Step 1. Preparing the Dough Start by beating the soft butter with the sugar and vanilla in a large bowl. Use an electric mixer to achieve a fluffy and airy mixture. This step is essential for obtaining tender cookies. Add the egg and egg yolk, continuing to mix until you have a glossy cream. Make sure the ingredients are well integrated! 2. Mixing the Dry Ingredients In another bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, and baking powder. These ingredients are fundamental for the light texture of the cookies. Gradually incorporate the flour mixture into the butter cream, mixing with a spatula or with the mixer on low speed. You will obtain a fairly soft and creamy dough. If necessary, add a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it! 3. Resting the Dough Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. If you have time, it is ideal to leave it overnight. This will help stabilize the dough and make it easier to roll out. 4. Shaping the Cookies Once the dough has chilled, sprinkle a little flour on the work surface and roll out a sheet about 0.5 cm thick. Use a rolling pin lightly to avoid sticking. Using a cookie cutter, cut out circles or hearts, as I did. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space between them, as they will expand while baking. 5. Baking the Cookies Preheat the oven to 180°C (or 160°C if you have a fan oven). Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn slightly golden. It is important not to leave them too long, as we want them to remain tender. After baking, let them cool on a rack. The cookies are very fragile, so handle them carefully. 6. Filling and Decorating Once the cookies are completely cool, fill each pair with a generous spoonful of dulce de leche. Don't be stingy, as the filling is their essence! After assembling them, sprinkle powdered sugar on top for an elegant appearance and an extra touch of sweetness. Serving Suggestions Alfajores are delicious alongside a cup of coffee or tea. You can also serve them as a dessert at a festive dinner or give them as sweet gifts to friends and family. In a beautiful arrangement, these cookies will make a sensation! Variations and Practical Tips - Filling Variations: Instead of dulce de leche, you can use fruit jam or chocolate. Each variation offers a different tasting experience. - Flavor Additions: For an extra flavor boost, you can add lemon or orange zest to the dough. - Other Types of Flour: If you want a gluten-free version, experiment with almond or rice flour, but keep in mind that the texture will be different. - Storage: The cookies store well in tin boxes, but make sure they are well sealed to prevent them from drying out. Nutritional Information Approximately 100 grams of Alfajores contain: - Calories: 450 kcal - Protein: 4 g - Fat: 25 g - Carbohydrates: 54 g These cookies are rich in carbohydrates, providing a quick source of energy, but when consumed in moderation, they can be a delicious and indulgent choice. Frequently Asked Questions 1. Why do the cookies stick during baking? It is important to keep space between the cookies on the tray, as they can expand and stick together. 2. Can I use another type of sweetener? Yes, you can replace sugar with a natural sweetener, but you may need to adjust the proportions. 3. Can I freeze Alfajores? Yes, you can freeze the cookies before filling them. Make sure they are well wrapped to prevent ice crystals from forming. I encourage you to try this Alfajores recipe, enjoy every moment of the cooking process, and share your creations with loved ones! These cookies are more than just a dessert; they are a true culinary experience worth savoring. Bon appétit!
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