If you’ve ever tasted Peruvian Alfajores with Dulce de Leche, you know they’re nothing short of magical. These soft, melt-in-your-mouth cookies filled with creamy caramel delight capture the heart of Peruvian tradition and flavor in every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, this recipe will guide you through creating authentic, irresistibly sweet treats that celebrate rich textures and deep, buttery sweetness. Get ready to fall in love with a dessert that’s both simple to make and impressive to share.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic Flavor: Experience the true taste of Peru with every bite of these classic cookies filled with luscious Dulce de Leche.
- Soft and Tender Texture: The delicate, crumbly cookies melt in your mouth, perfectly balancing the rich caramel filling.
- Simple Ingredients: Made from pantry staples, this recipe is easy to prepare without sacrificing any authentic flavor.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: These alfajores are ideal for celebrations, gifts, or simply a special treat with your afternoon tea or coffee.
- Customizable: Adapt the recipe with various fillings or coatings to make it uniquely your own.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to replicating the authentic texture and flavor of Peruvian Alfajores with Dulce de Leche. Each element plays an important role, from tenderizing the cookies to adding nuances of buttery sweetness and rich caramel.
- All-Purpose Flour: The base of the cookie dough, providing structure and a tender crumb.
- Cornstarch: Adds a delicate softness to make the cookies exceptionally light and melt-in-your-mouth.
- Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and contributes to the fine, tender texture in the dough.
- Unsalted Butter: Essential for rich flavor and a moist, crumbly cookie texture.
- Egg Yolks: Adds richness and binds the dough for a smooth finish.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Dulce de Leche: The star filling, a luscious caramel spread that complements the soft cookies perfectly.
- Desiccated Coconut or Powdered Sugar (optional): For an optional finishing touch that adds texture or extra sweetness.
Variations for Peruvian Alfajores with Dulce de Leche
Feel free to make this recipe your own by exploring different adaptations. Whether you want to cater to dietary needs or try new flavor combinations, these variations make customization easy and fun.
- Chocolate Alfajores: Dip your filled cookies in melted chocolate for a decadent twist.
- Gluten-Free Version: Substitute with gluten-free flour blends while maintaining the cookie’s softness.
- Nutty Fillings: Add crushed nuts like pecans or walnuts to the Dulce de Leche for added crunch.
- Fruit-Flavored Dulce de Leche: Infuse your caramel filling with natural fruit extracts like orange or coconut for a refreshing variation.
- Vegan Options: Use plant-based butter and egg substitutes to make vegan-friendly alfajores.
How to Make Peruvian Alfajores with Dulce de Leche
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by creaming the unsalted butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy, then add the egg yolks one at a time mixing thoroughly. Incorporate the vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour and cornstarch. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a smooth, soft dough forms—avoid overmixing to keep your cookies tender.
Step 2: Chill the Dough
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step firms up the dough, making it easier to roll out and helps maintain the cookie’s shape during baking.
Step 3: Roll and Cut
Lightly flour your surface and roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use a round cookie cutter to cut out uniform circles. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them evenly for uniform baking.
Step 4: Bake the Cookies
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes until the edges are just barely golden. The cookies should remain pale for a soft texture—avoid overbaking.
Step 5: Assemble the Alfajores
Once your cookies have cooled completely, spread a generous spoonful of Dulce de Leche over one cookie and sandwich it with another. Press gently to adhere without squeezing all the filling out.
Step 6: Optional Finishing Touch
Roll the edges of each alfajor in desiccated coconut or dust with powdered sugar for a traditional and appealing finish.
Pro Tips for Making Peruvian Alfajores with Dulce de Leche
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are softened to blend smoothly and create the perfect dough texture.
- Don’t Overbake: Removing cookies while still pale keeps them tender and melt-in-your-mouth.
- Even Thickness: Roll dough evenly to ensure all cookies bake uniformly for consistent texture.
- Quality Dulce de Leche: Use a rich, creamy Dulce de Leche for the best authentic flavor experience.
- Storage Tips: Store alfajores in an airtight container to maintain softness and freshness.
How to Serve Peruvian Alfajores with Dulce de Leche
Garnishes
Sprinkle powdered sugar or roll the edges in finely shredded coconut to add a delicate sweetness and an eye-catching finish to your alfajores.
Side Dishes
Pair alfajores with a cup of rich coffee, hot chocolate, or a spiced tea to complement the caramel’s sweetness and enhance the cozy indulgence.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange alfajores on a decorative platter with colorful flowers or edible gold leaf for festive occasions. Stack them in mini towers tied with ribbon as delightful edible gifts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your alfajores in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to preserve their soft texture and fresh flavor.
Freezing
Freeze assembled alfajores wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a sealed container for up to one month. Thaw naturally at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
Gently warm frozen alfajores in a microwave for a few seconds or let them sit in a warm room to bring out the softness and enhance the melting Dulce de Leche center.
FAQs
What makes Peruvian Alfajores different from other alfajores?
Peruvian Alfajores are distinguished by their use of cornstarch for an ultra-soft texture and a luscious Dulce de Leche filling that is rich but not overpowering, creating a perfectly balanced sweet treat.
Can I make Dulce de Leche at home?
Yes, you can easily make Dulce de Leche by simmering sweetened condensed milk until it thickens and caramelizes, or by slowly heating milk and sugar—both methods yield delicious results.
Is it possible to store the cookies and filling separately?
For best freshness and texture, it’s recommended to assemble the alfajores just before serving, but you can store baked cookies and Dulce de Leche separately for several days.
How do I prevent the cookies from breaking?
Handle the dough gently, avoid overbaking, and use softened butter for a tender but sturdy cookie that won’t easily crumble when filled.
Are there vegan alternatives for this recipe?
Absolutely! Replace butter with vegan margarine or coconut oil and use flaxseed or chia seed egg substitutes for a vegan-friendly version of Peruvian Alfajores with Dulce de Leche.
Final Thoughts
Peruvian Alfajores with Dulce de Leche are truly a dessert to savor and share. Their tender texture paired with creamy, sweet caramel filling makes them an unforgettable treat for any occasion. Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become a favorite go-to for gatherings or quiet indulgences alike. So roll up your sleeves, whip up a batch, and spread a little Peruvian sweetness into your day!