Dulce de Leche Alfajores Recipe Alfajores de Maicena

Cornstarch Alfajores Recipe (Alfajores de Maicena):

A Traditional Treat

alfajores recipe dulce de leche alfajores de maicena

Cornstarch alfajores, or “alfajores de maicena,” are a beloved South American dessert. These delicate cookies, filled with luscious dulce de leche and rolled in shredded coconut, are a symbol of comfort and tradition in Argentina and Uruguay. While they are enjoyed year-round, they are especially popular during holidays and family gatherings. This recipe will guide you through creating these light, melt-in-your-mouth cookies, perfect for sharing with loved ones.

Ingredients:

50 g butter (softened)
50 g icing sugar (sifted)
Lemon zest (for a zesty aroma)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 egg
100 g cornstarch (cornflour)
50 g self-raising flour
Shredded coconut (for decoration)
Dulce de leche Repostero Onda Onda (for filling)

Alfajores Recipe Step-by-Step Instructions:

Prepare Your Ingredients
Let the butter soften at room temperature. Sift the icing sugar to remove any lumps, ensuring a smooth texture.

Cream the Butter and Sugar
Beat the softened butter with the icing sugar until you achieve a creamy consistency. This step ensures the alfajores will have a light, delicate texture.

Add Flavor
Incorporate the lemon zest and vanilla extract into the mixture, stirring well to distribute the flavors.

Add the Egg
Beat the egg into the mixture until fully combined.

Mix the Dry Ingredients
Sift the cornstarch and self-raising flour, then gradually add them to the butter mixture, forming a soft dough. Add more flour if needed, but be cautious not to overdo it.

Chill the Dough
Wrap the dough in cling film and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Chilling makes it easier to roll out later.

Roll Out the Dough
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Roll the dough to 5 mm thickness on a floured surface.

Cut the Discs
Use a round cookie cutter (about 4 cm in diameter) to cut out the dough discs. Place them on a lined or greased baking tray.

Bake
Bake the discs for 8-10 minutes, until the edges start to brown lightly. Alfajores should remain pale, characteristic of their traditional appearance.

Cool and Fill
Let the cookies cool completely before filling. We recommend “Pastelero” dulce de leche, sometimes known as “Repostero”. This is catering strength dulce de leche, formulated to maintain height and shape when applies. It is best used with a piping bag. Create a layer on one disc and place a second on top to form a cookie sandwich. Expert step: use fancy nozzles to create beautiful patterns that will remain visible from the sides.

Decorate with Shredded Coconut (optional)
Roll the edges of the alfajores in shredded coconut for the final touch. They may also be left plain. Now, enjoy your delicious alfajores!

A Brief History of Alfajores

The tradition of making alfajores dates back to colonial times when Spanish settlers brought their own version of this treat to South America. However, it was in Argentina and Uruguay that the cornstarch alfajores gained their iconic status. The use of cornstarch gives these alfajores a unique, melt-in-your-mouth texture that distinguishes them from other cookies. Over the years, they have become a cultural staple, often served with a cup of coffee or shared during special occasions.

What makes alfajores so beloved is not just their flavor but the memories they evoke. From childhood snacks to festive celebrations, alfajores de maicena are deeply intertwined with family traditions across the region.

Conclusion

Cornstarch alfajores are more than just a sweet treat; they are a testament to the rich culinary traditions of South America. With a soft texture, a burst of zesty flavor from the lemon zest, and the creamy indulgence of dulce de leche, these alfajores are sure to impress anyone who tastes them. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just as a delicious homemade dessert, this recipe will bring a taste of South American tradition right to your kitchen.

Summary: This easy-to-follow recipe for cornstarch alfajores will guide you through creating this classic South American dessert. The combination of delicate, buttery cookies filled with dulce de leche and rolled in shredded coconut creates a treat that’s rich in both flavor and tradition.