Andalusian Alfajores

Name: Andalusian Alfajores
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 large egg yolk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cornstarch; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup dulce de leche; Powdered sugar for dusting

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Savor the delightful fusion of textures and flavors in these Andalusian Alfajores. These soft, crumbly cookies are filled with rich dulce de leche and dusted with powdered sugar, making them the perfect sweet treat for your Thanksgiving dessert table. Embrace the vibrant taste of Spain and create a memorable dessert that will impress your family and friends this holiday season.

Created by

Georgia Lane

Last updated on 2025-11-25T13:58:33.912Z

Inspired by traditional Andalusian flavors, these cookies bring a piece of Spain to your home. Perfect for celebrations or as an everyday treat.

Experience the Celebration of Flavor

Andalusian Alfajores are not just a treat; they are a celebration of Spanish culture and culinary tradition. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of buttery cookie and luscious dulce de leche, creating a taste sensation that lingers long after the last crumb. Their unique texture combines the soft crumbliness of the cookie with the smooth creaminess of the filling, providing a delightful contrast that your taste buds will adore.

These cookies are a staple in many Spanish-speaking countries, but their roots in Andalusia give them a special place in the heart of Spanish gastronomy. Serving them at your Thanksgiving gathering is not only a delicious choice but also an opportunity to introduce your guests to a beloved international treat that transcends borders and brings people together.

Perfect for Any Occasion

While Andalusian Alfajores are a fantastic addition to your Thanksgiving dessert table, they are equally wonderful for other special occasions. Whether it's a bustling holiday party, a cozy family gathering, or even an afternoon tea, these cookies will impress and satisfy guests of all ages. The effortless elegance of these alfajores makes them a versatile dessert you can enjoy year-round.

Moreover, their unique filling and light dusting of powdered sugar elevate them to a gourmet status, making them perfect for gifting during the holiday season. Wrap them up in beautiful packaging, and you've got a charming homemade gift that speaks volumes of thoughtfulness and care.

Tips for the Perfect Alfajores

To achieve the softest, most crumbly texture in your alfajores, be sure to use room temperature butter. This allows for optimal creaming with the powdered sugar, which is essential for the right consistency. Additionally, when shaping the cookies, try to keep them uniform in size for even baking. A small cookie scoop can be a handy tool to ensure consistency.

Once baked, allow the cookies to cool completely before assembling them with dulce de leche. This will prevent the filling from melting and ensure that your alfajores hold their shape. Don't rush this process—the waiting will be worth it when you take your first bite!

Ingredients

For the Alfajores:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 large egg yolk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

1 cup dulce de leche

For the Topping:

Powdered sugar for dusting

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before starting.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, and continue mixing until well combined.

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a dough forms.

Shape and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll the dough into small balls and flatten them slightly. Place on the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 15 minutes or until lightly golden.

Fill and Dust

Allow the cookies to cool completely. Take one cookie, spread a generous amount of dulce de leche on the bottom, and sandwich it with another cookie. Repeat with the remaining cookies. Finally, dust the tops with powdered sugar before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Andalusian Alfajores!

Understanding Dulce de Leche

Dulce de leche is a popular Latin American confection made from sweetened milk, which is slowly heated until it caramelizes. The result is a rich, creamy spread that perfectly complements the texture of alfajores. While you can find ready-made dulce de leche in stores, making it at home can elevate your alfajores to a whole new level, allowing you to customize the sweetness and consistency to your liking.

For a quicker option, canned dulce de leche is widely available and can save you time without sacrificing flavor. Just be sure to check the ingredients for a product that contains no artificial flavors or preservatives for the best results.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

To maintain the freshness and texture of your alfajores, store them in an airtight container. They can typically last for about a week at room temperature. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them before filling. Just be sure to let them cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container. You can fill and dust them with powdered sugar after thawing for optimal freshness.

When serving, consider pairing your alfajores with a cup of coffee or a glass of hot chocolate. The rich flavors of both the beverage and the cookies will enhance each other's taste, creating a delightful experience for your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought dulce de leche?

Yes, store-bought dulce de leche works perfectly for this recipe.

→ How should I store these cookies?

Store the alfajores in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.