Irresistible Peruvian Alfajores with Dulce de Leche Treats

Peruvian Alfajores with Dulce de Leche are a true celebration of flavors and textures, offering an authentic taste of Peru that’s both tender and indulgently sweet. These delicate sandwich cookies feature melt-in-your-mouth shortbread-like biscuits filled with creamy, luscious dulce de leche, a rich caramel spread that unites the cookies in perfect harmony. Whether you’re a passionate baker or simply someone who enjoys trying exquisite treats, these Peruvian Alfajores with Dulce de Leche will quickly become your new favorite dessert to share with friends, family, or even savor all on your own.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic taste experience: Enjoy a classic South American treat with every bite, connecting you to Peruvian culture and flavor traditions.
• Simple yet elegant: The recipe is straightforward, using basic pantry ingredients that deliver impressive results.
• Perfect texture contrast: The buttery, crumbly cookies paired with creamy dulce de leche create an irresistible duo.
• Versatile dessert option: Great for celebrations, gifts, or just a cozy afternoon treat with coffee or tea.
• Customizable and fun: Easy to tweak the recipe to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for Peruvian Alfajores with Dulce de Leche are simple but each plays a key role in making your alfajores perfectly tender, flavorful, and deliciously authentic. From the buttery flour base to the rich caramel filling, every component adds its own magic to the final treat.

• All-purpose flour: The foundation of the cookies, providing structure without toughness.
• Cornstarch: Adds a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture to the biscuit dough.
• Unsalted butter: Used for richness and a tender crumb.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetness for the cookies, balancing the caramel filling.
• Egg yolks: Help bind the dough and add richness.
• Baking powder: A touch of leavening for lightness.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances flavor with warm aromatic notes.
• Dulce de leche: The star ingredient for filling – creamy, caramelized, and sweet.
• Powdered sugar (optional): For dusting the finished alfajores to add elegance and extra sweetness.

Variations for Peruvian Alfajores with Dulce de Leche

Customizing your Peruvian Alfajores with Dulce de Leche is easy and fun – you can adapt flavors, ingredients, or even dietary options based on what you have or prefer. Here are some variations to inspire your baking adventure.

• Chocolate-dipped alfajores: Dip the cookies halfway into melted dark or white chocolate for a decadent twist.
• Nutty filling: Add finely chopped toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts inside the dulce de leche for crunch.
• Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free flour blend along with cornstarch to keep the texture soft and tender.
• Coconut flair: Add shredded coconut to the dough or sprinkle it onto the filling edges for a tropical touch.
• Spiced versions: Mix cinnamon or ground cloves into the cookie dough to complement the caramel notes.

How to Make Peruvian Alfajores with Dulce de Leche

Step 1: Prepare the dough

Begin by combining the dry ingredients – all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and baking powder – in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, cream the unsalted butter with granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolks and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients, stirring gently until a soft dough forms that is easy to handle but not sticky.

Step 2: Chill and roll out

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This resting period helps the dough firm up and prevents spreading during baking. Once chilled, roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to about ¼ inch thickness, ensuring even thickness for all cookies.

Step 3: Cut and bake

Using a small round cookie cutter (about 2 inches in diameter), cut out circles from the dough and place them onto baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes or until just set – avoid browning for the tender, pale look typical of alfajores.

Step 4: Cool and fill

Allow the cookies to cool completely on wire racks. Once cooled, spread generous amounts of dulce de leche onto the flat side of one cookie, then sandwich with another, pressing gently to secure but not squish out the filling.

Step 5: Optional finishing touches

Dust the tops with powdered sugar or dip the edges in shredded coconut or melted chocolate for added flair and flavor variation.

Pro Tips for Making Peruvian Alfajores with Dulce de Leche

• Use room temperature butter: It creams more easily with sugar for a smooth dough texture.
• Avoid overbaking: Keep an eye on the cookies to maintain their pale color and tender crumb.
• Choose thick dulce de leche: For best filling consistency, use a quality dulce de leche that is not too runny.
• Rest dough properly: Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading and keeps shape crisp.
• Handle cookies gently: The alfajores are delicate, so sandwich and store carefully to avoid breakage.

How to Serve Peruvian Alfajores with Dulce de Leche

Garnishes

Sprinkle the alfajores lightly with powdered sugar for a snowy effect or roll the edges in finely shredded coconut to add texture, color, and a tropical vibe to each bite.

Side Dishes

Pair these sweet cookies with hot beverages like Peruvian coffee, rich hot chocolate, or a comforting cup of tea. The warmth perfectly complements the cool caramel filling and buttery cookie.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange alfajores on tiered dessert stands or place them in decorative boxes tied with ribbon for gifting. You can also stack them artistically with alternating fillings or accompany with fresh fruit slices for a festive touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Peruvian Alfajores with Dulce de Leche fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This preserves the tender texture and preserves the creamy filling flavor.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the assembled alfajores by wrapping each one individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a sealed freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 1 month without loss of quality.

Reheating

Since alfajores are best enjoyed at room temperature, thaw frozen alfajores overnight in the fridge and bring them to room temperature before serving to restore their perfect texture and flavor.

FAQs

What are Peruvian Alfajores with Dulce de Leche?

They are traditional South American sandwich cookies made of soft, buttery biscuits filled with luscious caramel spread called dulce de leche, originating in Peru and other countries.

Can I use store-bought dulce de leche?

Yes, high-quality store-bought dulce de leche works perfectly and saves time, though homemade dulce de leche adds a personal touch.

How can I make these gluten-free?

Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, keeping cornstarch to maintain the delicate cookie texture.

What is the best way to store alfajores to keep them fresh?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a few days or freeze wrapped tightly for longer storage.

Are Peruvian Alfajores with Dulce de Leche difficult to make?

Not at all! With basic ingredients and clear steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly and immensely rewarding.

Final Thoughts

Diving into the world of Peruvian Alfajores with Dulce de Leche is like discovering a hidden gem of delightful sweetness and tender textures. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving something delightfully homemade, these treats are sure to warm your heart and satisfy your sweet tooth. Grab your ingredients, have fun with the process, and share the joy of alfajores with those you love!

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