Alfajores are traditional Argentine sandwich cookies that are beloved throughout Latin America. These delightful treats consist of two soft, buttery cookies filled with a generous layer of dulce de leche and often dusted with powdered sugar or rolled in coconut. The combination of the tender cookies and sweet caramel filling makes alfajores a favorite dessert or snack.

Ingredients:

• For the Cookies:

  • 200 grams unsalted butter, softened
  • 100 grams granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 300 grams all-purpose flour
  • 100 grams cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • A pinch of salt

• For the Filling:

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

• Optional Toppings:

  • Powdered sugar, for dusting
  • Shredded coconut, for rolling

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:

   • In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients:

   • In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt.

3. Combine Ingredients:

   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. The dough will be soft but should come together.

4. Chill the Dough:

   • Divide the dough in half, wrap each portion in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until firm.

5. Roll and Cut:

   • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion of the dough to about 5 mm thickness. Use a round cookie cutter (about 5 cm in diameter) to cut out cookies. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

6. Bake:

   • Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.

7. Assemble:

   • Spread a generous amount of dulce de leche on the flat side of one cookie, then top with another cookie to make a sandwich. Repeat with the remaining cookies.

8. Optional:

   • Dust the alfajores with powdered sugar or roll the edges in shredded coconut.

Nutritional Information (per 100 grams):

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Protein: 5 grams
• Carbohydrates: 65 grams
• Fiber: 2 grams

About the Dish: Alfajores are a classic Argentine treat with a rich history. Originating from the Middle East, they were adapted to local tastes in South America. The Argentine version is renowned for its buttery, crumbly texture and the sweet, gooey filling of dulce de leche. These cookies are a staple at celebrations, holidays, and as a sweet treat with coffee or tea.