Irresistible Peruvian Alfajores with Dulce de Leche Treats

If you have a sweet tooth craving something uniquely delightful, you’re in for a treat with Peruvian Alfajores with Dulce de Leche. These soft, crumbly cookies sandwich a luscious caramel filling that melts in your mouth, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Originating from Peru, this beloved dessert combines simplicity and richness, making it an irresistible snack or gift for any special occasion. The charming combination of buttery cookies and smooth dulce de leche will quickly become one of your favorite indulgences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Flavor: Offers a true taste of Peruvian tradition that’s both sweet and comforting.
• Simple Ingredients: Made from everyday pantry staples, making it easy to bake at home.
• Perfect Texture: Soft and crumbly cookies paired with creamy dulce de leche create mouthwatering contrasts.
• Versatile Treat: Ideal for celebrations, gifts, or just a delightful afternoon snack.
• Impressively Homemade: Your friends and family will be amazed by how professional these look and taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on simple ingredients, each chosen to develop the authentic flavor, tender texture, and golden color essential to perfect Peruvian Alfajores with Dulce de Leche. The focus is on quality basics combined in a way that guarantees delicious results every time.

• All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure and crumb for soft, melt-in-your-mouth cookies.
• Cornstarch: Adds lightness and delicate texture to the cookie dough, preventing toughness.
• Butter: Unsalted butter ensures a rich, creamy flavor and tender crumb.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the dough without overpowering the filling’s caramel richness.
• Egg Yolks: Contribute to moisture, color, and binding the dough gently.
• Baking Powder: Helps the cookies rise slightly for the perfect softness.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances warmth and depth in the cookies’ flavor profile.
• Dulce de Leche: The heart and soul filling—a smooth, caramelized milk spread that’s luscious and sweet.
• Powdered Sugar: For dusting the finished alfajores to add a touch of sweetness and elegance.

Variations for Peruvian Alfajores with Dulce de Leche

Feel free to customize your alfajores to suit your taste or dietary preferences. This recipe is flexible and adapts beautifully with different fillings, toppings, and ingredients, allowing you to get creative without compromising the classic charm.

• Chocolate-Dipped: Dip finished cookies halfway in melted dark or milk chocolate for a rich twist.
• Nutty Fillings: Add crushed toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts to the dulce de leche for extra texture.
• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free baking mix to accommodate sensitivities.
• Spiced Cookies: Incorporate cinnamon or citrus zest into the dough for a warm, aromatic note.
• Fruit Jam Layer: Spread a thin layer of your favorite jam alongside the dulce de leche for a fruity surprise.

How to Make Peruvian Alfajores with Dulce de Leche

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by creaming the softened butter with sugar until light and fluffy. Then add egg yolks and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and baking powder, then gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Chill and Roll

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Once firm, roll the dough out on a floured surface to about ¼ inch thickness. Use a round cookie cutter to cut out uniform circles.

Step 3: Bake the Cookies

Place the cut dough pieces onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them evenly. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. Let them cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 4: Assemble the Alfajores

Once cooled, spread a generous amount of dulce de leche on the bottom of one cookie and gently sandwich with another cookie. Repeat until all cookies are paired, then dust the tops with powdered sugar.

Pro Tips for Making Peruvian Alfajores with Dulce de Leche

• Avoid Overmixing: Mix the dough just until barely combined to keep the cookies tender and crumbly.
• Chill the Dough Well: This helps prevent spreading during baking and makes rolling easier.
• Use Quality Dulce de Leche: Opt for homemade or a premium store-bought brand for best flavor.
• Uniform Cookie Size: Use a consistent cookie cutter size for even baking and assembly.
• Store at Room Temperature: Keep alfajores in an airtight container to maintain softness and freshness.

How to Serve Peruvian Alfajores with Dulce de Leche

Garnishes

Sprinkle the completed alfajores with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish. You can also lightly dust with cinnamon or grated chocolate for added flair and aroma.

Side Dishes

Pair your alfajores with a cup of hot tea, coffee, or a glass of cold milk to complement the richness and provide a comforting balance to the sweet caramel.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the alfajores in a decorative tin or on a tiered dessert tray with fresh fruit like berries or a few edible flowers for gatherings and special occasions that demand both taste and beauty.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Peruvian Alfajores with Dulce de Leche in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to keep the cookies soft and flavors vibrant.

Freezing

Wrap the assembled alfajores individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

Allow frozen alfajores to thaw naturally, then serve as is or warm slightly in a low-temperature oven for a few minutes to revive their soft texture without melting the dulce de leche filling.

FAQs

What makes Peruvian Alfajores with Dulce de Leche different from other alfajores?

Peruvian versions often feature a softer, more delicate cookie with a rich and creamy dulce de leche filling, highlighting simple ingredients for an authentic taste that sets them apart from other Latin American variations.

Can I use store-bought dulce de leche?

Yes, high-quality store-bought dulce de leche works perfectly; just make sure it’s thick and creamy for the best results in your alfajores.

How long do homemade alfajores last?

When stored properly, homemade alfajores stay fresh for up to 4 days at room temperature and up to 2 months frozen.

Is there a gluten-free option?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make gluten-free Peruvian Alfajores with Dulce de Leche that are just as delicious.

Can I make these vegan?

With a few substitutions like using vegan butter, flax eggs, and dairy-free dulce de leche alternatives, you can create a vegan-friendly version of these delightful treats.

Final Thoughts

Peruvian Alfajores with Dulce de Leche are truly a treasure of South American cuisine. Their delicate, buttery cookies paired with luscious caramel filling offer pure joy in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a special event or craving a sweet afternoon snack, this recipe guarantees satisfaction. So go ahead, whisk up a batch and share the warmth and delight of these irresistible alfajores with those you love!

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