Indulge in Alfajores with Dulce de Leche and Shredded Coconut

Alfajores are delightful sandwich cookies that epitomize South American cuisine, particularly cherished in countries like Argentina, Peru, and Uruguay. With a tender, crumbly texture and a luscious filling of dulce de leche, these treats are often rolled in shredded coconut for an added flavor.

In this article, we will guide you through a simple and delicious recipe to make your own alfajores at home, topped with sweet shredded coconut. Get ready to impress your family and friends with these irresistible delights!

Ingredients

For the cookies:

• 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (100g) cornstarch
• 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon brandy or rum (optional)

For the filling:

• 1 cup (300g) dulce de leche

For the garnish:

• 1 cup (100g) shredded coconut, unsweetened

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, powdered sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
2. In another bowl, cream the softened butter until smooth. Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter, mixing until crumbly.
3. Add the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and brandy or rum (if using) to the mixture. Knead until a soft dough forms. Do not overwork the dough to maintain a tender texture.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

1. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This will make it easier to roll out.

Step 3: Shape the Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thick. Use a round cookie cutter (about 2 inches in diameter) to cut out cookies.
3. Place the cut cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking.
2. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 5: Assemble the Alfajores

1. Spread about a teaspoon of dulce de leche on the flat side of one cookie and sandwich it with another cookie.
2. Roll the edges of the assembled alfajor in shredded coconut for a beautiful finish.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Your alfajores are now ready to be served! These cookies are perfect for enjoying with coffee or tea, at gatherings, or simply as a sweet treat during the day. They store well in an airtight container for several days, though they are unlikely to last long!

Tips for Success

• Choosing Dulce de Leche: You can either make your own dulce de leche or purchase it from the store. Homemade versions are typically richer and more flavorful.
• Coconut Texture: For a finer texture, process the shredded coconut in a food processor before rolling the cookies in it.
• Variations: Feel free to experiment with different fillings like chocolate ganache or fruit preserves for a unique twist on traditional alfajores.

Conclusion

Making alfajores with dulce de leche and shredded coconut is not only a rewarding experience but also a wonderful way to enjoy the unique flavors of South America. With their delicate texture and sweet filling, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your home. Happy baking!