Alfajores Cookies

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Alfajores are a beloved treat in Argentina, a country where dulce de leche reigns supreme. These delicate sandwich cookies have a rich history, dating back to the Moorish influence in Spain before making their way to South America.

Today, they are an essential part of Argentine culture, enjoyed with a cup of coffee or mate*.

Soft, crumbly shortbread cookies filled with creamy dulce de leche and often coated in chocolate or dusted with powdered sugar—alfajores are pure indulgence. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, this recipe will bring a taste of Argentina to your kitchen.

A Sweet Argentine Tradition

In Argentina, as well as other South American countries, alfajores come in countless variations.

Some are coated in chocolate, others have a honey-infused dough, and some even contain jam or nuts.

But no matter the version, they are a staple treat, found in bakeries, supermarkets, and homemade in kitchens across the country.

The magic of alfajores lies in their simplicity—just a few ingredients come together to create something truly special.

The cornstarch gives them an irresistibly soft and crumbly texture, while the dulce de leche adds the perfect amount of creamy sweetness.

These cookies are perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself). Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because, alfajores are guaranteed to impress.

Give this recipe a try and bring a little bit of Argentina into your home. Enjoy them with a hot cup of coffee, a traditional yerba mate*, or as a sweet snack anytime.

What is Yerba mate?

Yerba mate is a traditional South American herbal tea made from the dried leaves of the Ilex paraguariensis plant. It’s especially popular in Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, and southern Brazil. The drink is known for its earthy, slightly bitter flavor and its natural caffeine content, which gives a smooth energy boost without the jitters of coffee.

Classic Argentinian Alfajores Recipe

Ingredients

For the cookies:

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 2 cups (250g) cornstarch
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
• 110g icing sugar
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1 whole egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp lemon zest (optional)
• 2 tbsp brandy or milk (if needed)

For the filling & coating:

• 1 cup (320g) dulce de leche (store-bought or homemade)
• Shredded coconut or powdered sugar (for dusting)
• Melted dark or white chocolate (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Set aside.
2. In a separate large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the egg yolks, whole egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Mix until fully incorporated.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. If the dough feels dry, add 1-2 tablespoons brandy or milk.
5. Shape the dough into a disk, between plastic wrap or parchment paper and roll out the dough, until about 0.4 mm thickness.

Use a round or other shaped cookie cutter (about 5 cm in diameter) to cut out cookies and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Leftover dough is gathered and rolled again and again, even the last bit.

Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Bake the Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and lightly browned.
3. Let them cool completely on a wire rack.

Making heart-shaped Alfajores for Valentine’s Day.

Step 3: Assemble the Alfajores

1. Spread about 1 teaspoon of dulce de leche on the flat side of one cookie.
2. Place another cookie on top, pressing gently to sandwich them together.
3. Smear the edges with more dulce de leche.
4. Roll the edges in shredded coconut or dust with powdered sugar.

Step 4: Optional Chocolate Coating

If you want to coat your alfajores in chocolate, melt dark or white chocolate and dip each sandwich cookie into the chocolate. Let them set on parchment paper until hardened.

How to store the cookies

To keep alfajores fresh, follow these storage guidelines:

• At room temperature: Store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 5 days.
• In the fridge: If the weather is warm or if they are coated in chocolate, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before eating for the best texture.
• In the freezer: You can freeze them by placing them in layers with parchment paper in between. They will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Kopiaste and Kali Orexi,

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