Delicious Alfajores Chilenos Recipe: Authentic South American Treat

Looking for a delicious treat that will transport you to the vibrant streets of Chile? Look no further! In this blog post, we’re going to share with you an irresistible recipe for alfajores chilenos. These mouthwatering cookies are a beloved traditional delicacy in Chile, and once you try them, you’ll understand why. With a buttery, crumbly texture and a luscious dollop of dulce de leche sandwiched in between, alfajores chilenos are a true indulgence. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and impress your friends and family with this simple yet delectable alfajores chilenos recipe. Let’s begin the delicious journey!

Delicious Alfajores Chilenos Recipe

Introduction

Alfajores are a famous delicacy in many Latin American countries, and in Chile, they have their own unique twist. Chilean alfajores are a delectable combination of buttery cookies filled with dulce de leche and coated with powdered sugar. These sweet treats are loved by people of all ages and are often enjoyed during special occasions such as Christmas or as an afternoon snack. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making these delightful alfajores Chilenos from scratch. Get ready to indulge in the flavors of Chile!

Ingredients

To make the alfajores Chilenos, you will need the following ingredients:

1. 2 cups all-purpose flour
2. 1/2 cup cornstarch
3. 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
4. 1/2 cup granulated sugar
5. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
6. 2 egg yolks
7. 1 tablespoon lemon zest
8. 1 cup dulce de leche
9. Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and cornstarch.
2. In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the egg yolks, vanilla extract, and lemon zest to the butter-sugar mixture and mix well.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms.
5. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Rolling and Cutting the Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Remove the dough from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly.
3. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
4. Using a round cookie cutter, cut out cookies with a diameter of approximately 2 inches.
5. Transfer the cookie rounds to the prepared baking sheet, leaving a small gap between them.
6. Gently re-roll the remaining dough and continue cutting out cookies until all the dough is used.

Step 3: Baking the Cookies

1. Place the baking sheet with the cookie rounds in the preheated oven.
2. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden.
3. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 4: Assembling the Alfajores

1. Once the cookies are completely cooled, spread a generous amount of dulce de leche on the flat side of one cookie.
2. Take another cookie of a similar size and gently press it on top of the dulce de leche to create a sandwich.
3. Repeat this process with the remaining cookies.
4. Finally, dust the assembled alfajores generously with powdered sugar to give them a beautiful finish.

Tips for Perfect Alfajores Chilenos

Here are a few tips to help you achieve the perfect alfajores Chilenos:

• Make sure the butter is softened but not melted. This will help achieve the right texture for the cookies.
• Refrigerating the dough before rolling it out will make it easier to handle and prevent it from spreading too much during baking.
• When cutting out the cookies, try to work swiftly to avoid excessive handling, as this can lead to tough cookies.
• For an extra touch of flavor, you can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough.
• Dust the cookies with powdered sugar just before serving to ensure they stay fresh and visually appealing.

Congratulations! You have successfully learned how to make delicious alfajores Chilenos. These delightful treats are perfect for any occasion and are sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of coffee or as a sweet ending to a meal, these cookies will transport you to the vibrant flavors of Chile. Don’t forget to share them and spread the joy of alfajores Chilenos with your loved ones!

¿Cómo preparar Alfajores Chilenos?

Frequently Asked Questions

What are alfajores chilenos?

Alfajores chilenos are traditional South American cookies that originated in Chile. These delicious treats consist of two buttery cookies sandwiched together with a sweet filling, usually made with dulce de leche.

What ingredients do I need to make alfajores chilenos?

To make alfajores chilenos, you will need flour, cornstarch, powdered sugar, butter, eggs, vanilla extract, baking powder, and dulce de leche. Some variations may also include lemon zest or grated coconut for added flavor.

Can I make alfajores chilenos without dulce de leche?

Yes, if you don’t have dulce de leche or prefer a different filling, you can use other alternatives such as Nutella, caramel, or jam. However, dulce de leche is the traditional and most authentic filling for alfajores chilenos.

How do I assemble the alfajores chilenos?

To assemble the alfajores chilenos, take two cookies and spread a generous amount of dulce de leche or your chosen filling on one cookie. Then, gently press another cookie on top to create a sandwich. Repeat this process for all the remaining cookies.

Can I store alfajores chilenos?

Yes, you can store alfajores chilenos in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. However, if you live in a hot and humid climate, it’s best to store them in the refrigerator to prevent the filling from melting.

Can I freeze alfajores chilenos?

Absolutely! If you want to make a large batch or prepare them in advance, you can freeze alfajores chilenos. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating each layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Just thaw them at room temperature before serving.

Final Thoughts

The delicious and traditional alfajores chilenos recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to indulge in a delightful treat. These delicate cookies filled with dulce de leche are a true delight for the taste buds. The recipe calls for simple ingredients like butter, flour, and powdered sugar, making it easy to recreate in your own kitchen. With a buttery and crumbly texture, these alfajores will melt in your mouth, leaving you craving for more. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply want to satisfy your sweet tooth, alfajores chilenos are the perfect choice. Prepare them today and savor the authentic flavors of Chile.