Wonderful Alfajores Argentinos Recipe

Introduction

Alfajores Argentinos are delicate sandwich cookies filled with rich dulce de leche, a true classic of Argentine baking. With their melt-in-your-mouth shortbread texture and sweet, creamy filling, these cookies are a favorite for teatime, holidays, or gifting. Made with cornstarch and powdered sugar, they have a light, airy bite that pairs perfectly with the caramel-like dulce de leche. Whether you’ve tasted them in Argentina or are discovering them for the first time, baking alfajores at home brings a touch of South American tradition right into your kitchen.

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History or Background

Alfajores Argentinos trace their origins back to Spain, where “alfajor” was a Moorish sweet made with honey, almonds, and spices. When the Spanish brought the concept to South America, the recipe evolved to reflect local ingredients and tastes. In Argentina, alfajores became a beloved national treat, especially popular in cafés, bakeries, and as gifts. Unlike the Spanish version, Argentine alfajores feature two tender shortbread-style cookies sandwiched with dulce de leche. Today, they’re a cultural icon, often enjoyed with coffee, yerba mate, or given as souvenirs to celebrate Argentina’s sweet traditions.

Why You’ll Love Alfajores Argentinos

Alfajores Argentinos are a dessert that balances simplicity with indulgence. First, they’re melt-in-your-mouth soft, thanks to cornstarch in the dough. Second, they’re richly flavored, filled with creamy dulce de leche that adds caramel-like sweetness. Third, they’re versatile, perfect for enjoying with coffee, gifting to friends, or serving at holidays. Finally, they’re easy to make at home, requiring only basic baking ingredients and simple steps. These cookies bring a taste of Argentina’s sweetest traditions right to your table.

Ingredients for Alfajores Argentinos

To make authentic Alfajores Argentinos, you’ll need:

• 7 tbsp unsalted butter (100 g, softened) – creates a tender base
• 1 cup powdered sugar (100 g) – for sweetness and delicate texture
• 3 eggs (2 whole + 1 yolk) – adds richness and structure
• ½ tsp vanilla extract – enhances flavor
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour (100 g) – gives structure to the dough
• 1 ½ cups cornstarch (200 g) – ensures a light, airy texture
• ½ tsp baking powder – helps the cookies rise slightly
• ½ tsp salt – balances the sweetness
• ¾ cup dulce de leche (250 g) – thick, pastry-style filling for sandwiches

Optional: roll the edges in shredded coconut or dip half the cookie in chocolate for variations.

How to Make Alfajores Argentinos

Making Alfajores Argentinos is simple and rewarding:

1. Prepare the dough – Cream butter and powdered sugar with a hand mixer until light and fluffy. Add vanilla and eggs (2 whole + 1 yolk), mixing until combined.
2. Mix dry ingredients – Stir in flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt. Mix until just combined into a dough—avoid overmixing.
3. Chill – Gather dough into a ball, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 1 hour. This helps with rolling and prevents spreading.
4. Cut cookies – Roll chilled dough to ¼-inch thickness. Cut into 2-inch circles using a cookie cutter. Chill for 5 minutes more.
5. Bake – Place cookies on an ungreased baking sheet and bake at 325°F for 7–8 minutes, until lightly golden at edges.
6. Assemble – Once cooled, spread dulce de leche on one cookie and sandwich with another. Press gently.
7. Optional finish – Roll edges in coconut or dip in melted chocolate for extra flair.

The result is a tray of delicate, melt-in-your-mouth cookies filled with luscious dulce de leche.

Pro Tips for Alfajores Argentinos

• Don’t overmix the dough – mix until just combined to keep the cookies tender.
• Use thick dulce de leche – pastry-style or homemade works best so it doesn’t ooze out.
• Chill twice – once after making the dough, and again after cutting cookies, to help them hold their shape.

Serving Ideas for Alfajores Argentinos

Alfajores Argentinos are perfect for teatime with coffee or yerba mate, but they’re also wonderful for gifting during holidays. Dust the tops with powdered sugar for a classic look, roll the edges in shredded coconut for a traditional touch, or dip half the cookie in chocolate for extra indulgence. For parties, stack them on a platter or package them in small boxes as edible favors. However you serve them, these melt-in-your-mouth cookies bring elegance and sweetness to any occasion.

Storage Advice for Alfajores Argentinos

Store Alfajores Argentinos in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies (without filling) for up to 2 months, then thaw and fill with dulce de leche before serving. This helps maintain their delicate texture.

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FAQs about Alfajores Argentinos

What are alfajores made of?
Alfajores Argentinos are made with a delicate cornstarch shortbread dough and filled with dulce de leche.

What is the difference between Peruvian and Argentinian alfajores?
Peruvian alfajores often use a flour-based dough with powdered sugar on top, while Argentine alfajores rely heavily on cornstarch for a lighter, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

What are alfajores called in English?
They are often referred to as dulce de leche sandwich cookies in English.

Are alfajores Chilean or Argentinian?
While variations exist across Latin America, alfajores are especially iconic in Argentina, where they’re considered a national treat.

Find out more: Fabulous Pumpkin Shaped Cheese Ball Recipe

Conclusion

Alfajores Argentinos are delicate, melt-in-your-mouth cookies that capture the heart of Argentina’s sweet traditions. With their buttery cornstarch dough and rich dulce de leche filling, they’re simple yet elegant treats perfect for sharing, gifting, or enjoying with coffee. Bake a batch at home and experience why these cookies are loved across South America.

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