What is Alfajor: the most popular Argentinian sweet?

In the most picturesque corners of Argentina lies a culinary treasure that has conquered local and foreign hearts alike: the Argentinian alfajor. Combining soft layers of dough with exquisite filling, this sweet treat is much more than just a bite; it is an experience that awakens the senses and celebrates the country's rich gastronomic tradition.

Historical Origins

The origins of Argentinian alfajor can be traced back to colonial times when Spanish conquistadors introduced recipes and cooking techniques to South America, which eventually merged with local ingredients.

Superior Quality Ingredients

The Argentinian alfajor distinguishes itself by the quality of its ingredients. From the thin dough to the indulgent filling, every ingredient is carefully selected to ensure an unforgettable gastronomic experience. The combination of dulce de leche, chocolate and nuts is one of the most popular variants, but the creativity of Argentinian pastry chefs knows no bounds, offering an infinite range of flavors and textures.

Variety and Tradition

One of the wonders of the Argentinian alfajor is its diversity. From the classic cornstarch to the most modern and sophisticated versions, there is an alfajor for every palate and occasion. Whether enjoying a coffee in a traditional Buenos Aires café or exploring the stalls of craft fairs in the provinces, travelers can delight in the rich variety of this sweet national emblem.

An Unforgettable Memory of Argentina

For travelers who wish to take home a bit of Argentina with them, alfajores are the perfect souvenir. Carefully packaged in elegant boxes or individual pouches, these confections are delicious and authentic evoking the flavors and aromas of the country. In addition, their long shelf life makes them the perfect gift to share with loved ones when you get home.

Where to buy Argentinian alfajores?

The answer is simple, they are everywhere. You will find great variety in any kiosk. Some of the best known are the Havanna and the Cachafaz. In 2023 the Alfajor Quiero was voted as the best in the world. We recommend trying them ALL!

Which alfajor to buy

Start with the classic, milk chocolate filled with dulce de leche. But also go ahead and try the cornstarch one.

Recipe

Ingredients:

For the dough:

• 200 g all-purpose flour
• 300 g cornstarch
• 150 g powdered sugar
• 200 g butter at room temperature
• 3 egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• Zest of 1 lemon

For the filling:

• 400 g thick dulce de leche

For the topping:

• Shredded coconut (optional)
• Powdered sugar (optional for decoration)

Instructions:

Prepare the dough:

• Sift the flour, cornstarch, and baking powder into a bowl.
• In another bowl, beat the butter with the powdered sugar until creamy and smooth.
• Add the egg yolks one by one, beating well after each addition.
• Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest.
• Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients and mix until you get a soft, smooth dough. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more cornstarch.

Roll out and cut:

• Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
• Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
• Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 5 mm.
• Use a round cookie cutter, about 5 cm in diameter, to cut the dough into circles.

Bake:

• Place the circles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or greased.
• Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden. The dough should remain light in color.
• Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack.

Fill:

• Once the cookies are cool, spread a generous amount of thick dulce de leche on one cookie.
• Place another cookie on top, pressing gently to form the alfajor.

Optional - Coconut or powdered sugar:

• If desired, roll the edges of the alfajores in shredded coconut.
• You can also sprinkle powdered sugar over the alfajores for decoration.