Uruguayan Shortbread Cookies (alfajores)
Alfajores are traditional shortbread cookies from Uruguay, filled with dulce de leche and often coated in powdered sugar or dipped in chocolate. These delicate and delicious cookies are a popular treat in Montevideo and are perfect for enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (60g) cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup (300g) dulce de leche
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg yolks and vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and baking powder.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
- Use a cookie cutter to cut out rounds and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let the cookies cool completely.
- Spread a layer of dulce de leche on the bottom side of half of the cookies.
- Top with the remaining cookies to create sandwiches.
- Dust with powdered sugar if desired, or dip the edges in melted chocolate.
Cooking & Preparation
- Preparation time:
- 30 minutes
- Cooking time:
- 10 minutes
- Total time:
- 40 minutes
- Cooking method
- Stovetop
Nutritional facts per 1 serving
- Calories
- 150 per serving
- Carbohydrates
- 20g
- Fat
- 8g
- Protein
- 2g
Supplies
Mixing bowl Whisk Plastic wrap Baking sheet Parchment paper Cookie cutter
Tools
Oven Rolling pin
Serving suggestions
Serve alfajores with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
Tips & tricks
Be sure to refrigerate the dough before rolling it out to make it easier to work with.
Cost
$10