Alfajores
Few dessert recipes are as satisfying as a well-made Alfajores. The star here is all purpose flour, supported by a short list of everyday ingredients. Sweet without being heavy, it works just as well for an afternoon treat as for dessert. Scroll down for the ingredients, the step-by-step method, and answers to the questions we get asked most about it.
- Level Medium
Ingredients
- 300 g All purpose flour
- 200 g Cornstarch
- 200 g Butter
- 100 g Sugar
- 2 Egg Yolks
- 1 tsp Lemon Zest
- Dulce de leche
- Sprinkling Desiccated Coconut
Method
- Make the Dough: Cream butter and sugar. Add egg yolks and lemon zest. Gradually mix in flour and cornstarch to form a dough. Chill for 1 hour.
- Bake the Cookies: Roll out the dough, cut into circles, and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 12-15 minutes. Let cool.
- Assemble: Spread dulce de leche on one cookie, then sandwich with another. Roll the edges in coconut flakes.
- Chill the dough before rolling it out to make it easier to handle and to prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
- Dip the alfajores in melted chocolate and let them set on a wire rack for an extra decadent treat.
Tips for the best Alfajores
- Read the whole method before you start and measure out the 8 ingredients first — it keeps the pace relaxed once the heat is on.
- Rest the finished dish for a few minutes before serving — it lets the flavours settle and the texture firm up.
- Preheat the oven fully before anything goes in — a cold start changes the texture.
- Let the egg come up to room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking so it cooks evenly.
Variations
- Spicier version: add a pinch of chilli flakes or a sliced fresh chilli with the aromatics.
- Individual portions: divide into ramekins or a muffin tin and reduce the baking time by about a third.
- Fusion twist: keep the method but swap the spices for your own favourites — the Argentina base takes well to it.
Serving ideas
Serve slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a spoon of thick cream.
Storage
Keeps in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days, or refrigerated for up to a week. Most versions freeze well for 2 months.
Frequently asked questions
What can I substitute for all purpose flour?
Any ingredient with a similar texture and cooking time works; see the variations below for ideas. Keep quantities the same and adjust seasoning at the end.
Can I make Alfajores ahead of time?
Yes. It actually improves after a few hours, so make it earlier in the day and reheat gently before serving.
Is this Alfajores recipe medium to make?
It is rated medium: 8 ingredients and 5 steps. Follow the order and the tips above and it is very forgiving.
Recipe data via TheMealDB — source
0 comments