How to Prepare Authentic South American Alfajores

Unlocking the Sweet Secret: A Guide to Making Authentic South American Alfajores

Craving a sweet treat that takes you on a journey to the heart of South America? Look no further than Alfajores, the delightful sandwich cookies that are a staple in many South American countries. This pastry, a melt-in-your-mouth marvel, combines tender, buttery cookies with a rich dulce de leche filling, all often kissed by a dusting of powdered sugar or coated in a thin layer of chocolate. Preparing authentic Alfajores at home is surprisingly simple, and through this guide, you’ll learn how to bring this traditional delicacy into your kitchen.

Ingredients:

• For the Cookies:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 egg yolks

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• For the Filling:

• 1 cup dulce de leche (available in most stores or homemade)

• Optional for Decoration:

• Powdered sugar for dusting or
• Melted chocolate for dipping

Step-by-Step Guide to Authentic Alfajores:

1. Sift Together Dry Ingredients: Start by whisking together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. The cornstarch is the secret to achieving that tender, crumbly texture that Alfajores are known for.

2. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This could take about 3 minutes with an electric mixer on medium speed. Patience is key here to ensure your cookies have the right texture.

3. Combine the Ingredients: Add the egg yolks and vanilla extract into the butter and sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed or stirring by hand just until the dough comes together. It’s important not to overmix to keep the dough tender.

4. Chill the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a piece of plastic wrap, form it into a disk, and then wrap it tightly. Refrigerate for at least an hour or until firm. This step makes the dough easier to roll and cut later.

5. Preheat and Prepare: When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents the cookies from sticking and ensures they cook evenly.

6. Roll and Cut: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Using a round cookie cutter (about 2 inches in diameter), cut out the cookies and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them.

7. Bake to Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep a close eye to prevent burning. Allow the cookies to cool on the pan for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

8. Assemble the Alfajores: Once the cookies are cool, spread a layer of dulce de leche on the flat side of half of the cookies. Sandwich them with the remaining cookies, pressing gently to spread the filling to the edges.

9. Final Touches: For a traditional finish, dust the Alfajores with powdered sugar. For something extra decadent, dip half or the whole alfajor in melted chocolate and let it set on a wire rack.

Tips for the Perfect Alfajores:

• Dulce de Leche: For an authentic flavor, choose high-quality dulce de leche. You can find it in Latin American grocery stores or make your own by slowly simmering sweetened condensed milk.

• Rolling the Dough: Keep the dough chilled for easier handling. If it becomes too soft, pop it back in the fridge for a few minutes.

• Storing: Alfajores can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, making them perfect for sharing or savoring slowly.

Preparing these traditional South American Alfajores at home is a rewarding experience that results in a treat unlike any other. Whether enjoyed as a special dessert or shared as a gift with friends and family, these cookies are sure to transport your taste buds straight to the heart of South America. With this guide, creating authentic Alfajores in your kitchen is not just simple—it’s an adventure in baking worth taking. Happy baking!