Name: Alfajores
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 42 min
Cuisine: Latin American
Ingredients: 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened; 2/3 cup (80g) powdered sugar; 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour; 1 cup (120g) cornstarch; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 can (14 oz) dulce de leche; 1/2 cup shredded coconut, toasted; 1/2 cup chopped nuts; 1/2 cup chocolate sprinkles or rainbow sprinkles

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Alfajores are soft and buttery shortbread cookies filled with luscious dulce de leche and rolled in toasted coconut, chopped nuts, or colorful sprinkles. These traditional Latin American treats are melt-in-your-mouth delicious and perfect for any festive occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Alfajores are the ultimate indulgence for cookie lovers, offering a tender, buttery bite paired with the rich sweetness of dulce de leche. Their soft texture, combined with the delightful crunch of coconut or nuts around the edges, makes them an unforgettable treat. Easy to prepare and beautiful to present, these cookies are perfect for celebrations, gift boxes, or a luxurious afternoon snack.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
2/3 cup (80g) powdered sugar
2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
1 cup (120g) cornstarch
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 can (14 oz) dulce de leche
1/2 cup shredded coconut, toasted
1/2 cup chopped nuts
1/2 cup chocolate sprinkles or rainbow sprinkles

Directions

In a large bowl, cream together the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the vanilla extract and mix until incorporated.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms.
Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness.
Cut out circles using a round cookie cutter and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Chill the cookies in the fridge for 20 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until set but not browned.
Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
Spread a layer of dulce de leche on the bottom of one cookie and sandwich with another cookie.
Roll the edges of the filled cookies in shredded coconut, nuts, or sprinkles as desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 20 sandwich cookies
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 42 minutes
Calories: 190 kcal per cookie

Variations

Chocolate Alfajores: Dip the finished cookies halfway in melted chocolate for a decadent touch.
Lemon Zest Dough: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the dough for a bright, citrusy flavor.
Caramelized Coconut: Use caramelized coconut flakes for a sweeter, richer coating.
Nutty Filling: Mix finely chopped toasted pecans or almonds into the dulce de leche for extra texture.
Festive Colors: Roll the cookie edges in colored sprinkles to match holidays or special events.

Storage/Reheating

Store Alfajores in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze the filled cookies in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving. Avoid reheating to preserve their soft, delicate texture.

FAQs

How should I store Alfajores?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Can I freeze Alfajores?

Yes, they can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Why do I need to chill the cookies before baking?

Chilling helps the cookies retain their shape and ensures a tender texture.

Can I use homemade dulce de leche?

Absolutely, homemade or store-bought dulce de leche works wonderfully in this recipe.

What can I use instead of coconut?

You can roll the edges in chopped nuts, sprinkles, or leave them plain if preferred.

How do I make the cookies even more tender?

Ensure you use a high ratio of cornstarch in the dough for the softest, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Can I flavor the dulce de leche?

Yes, you can stir in a little vanilla, cinnamon, or even espresso powder for a flavor boost.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be refrigerated for up to 2 days before rolling and baking.

Why are my cookies hard?

Overbaking is the main cause; remove the cookies from the oven as soon as they are set but not browned.

What size cutter should I use?

A 2 to 2.5-inch round cutter is ideal for creating perfect sandwich cookies.

Conclusion

Alfajores are a beloved classic that combine rich dulce de leche with tender, buttery cookies and a beautiful finish of coconut, nuts, or sprinkles. These luxurious sandwich cookies are perfect for holidays, celebrations, or simply treating yourself to something special. Easy to customize and delightful to share, Alfajores are sure to become a cherished favorite in your baking collection.

Alfajores

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Transport your taste buds with Alfajores — soft, buttery shortbread cookies filled with luscious dulce de leche and beautifully rolled in toasted coconut, nuts, or colorful sprinkles. A classic Latin American treat perfect for festive gatherings and cozy indulgences! #alfajores #dulcedelechecookies #comfortbaking

Author: Asma
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 42 minutes
Yield: 20 sandwich cookies
Category: Desserts
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Latin American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

In a large bowl, cream together the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the vanilla extract and mix until incorporated.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness.
Cut out circles using a round cookie cutter and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Chill the cookies in the fridge for 20 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until set but not browned.
Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
Spread a layer of dulce de leche on the bottom of one cookie and sandwich with another.

Roll the edges of the filled cookies in shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or sprinkles as desired.

Notes

For an extra decadent version, drizzle the finished cookies with melted chocolate.
Store Alfajores in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Use homemade dulce de leche for an even richer, more authentic flavor.