Alfajores Dulce de Leche Sandwich Cookies

Alfajores Dulce de Leche Sandwich Cookies Recipe

Alfajores are delightful South American cookies that sandwich a rich layer of dulce de leche. These soft, crumbly cookies are rolled in powdered sugar, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion!

Ingredients:

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar, plus more for dusting
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• ½ cup (60g) cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

• 1 cup (about 300g) dulce de leche (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
   • Add the egg yolks and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
   • In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt.
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
2. Chill the Dough:
   • Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until firm.
3. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
4. Roll and Cut the Cookies:
   • Once the dough is chilled, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thick. Use a round cookie cutter (about 2 inches in diameter) to cut out cookies. Place them on the prepared baking sheets.
5. Bake the Cookies:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.
6. Assemble the Alfajores:
   • Once the cookies are completely cooled, spread a generous teaspoon of dulce de leche on the flat side of one cookie and sandwich it with another cookie.
7. Dust with Powdered Sugar:
   • Roll the edges of the sandwich cookies in powdered sugar or dust the tops with more powdered sugar before serving.

Tips:

• Storage: Store the assembled alfajores in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage; just thaw before serving.
• Variations: Feel free to dip the cookies in chocolate for an extra indulgent treat!

Enjoy your delicious Alfajores Dulce de Leche Sandwich Cookies!