Alfajor Cordobés
Background of Alfajor Cordobés
The Alfajor Cordobés is a traditional pastry from the Córdoba province in Argentina. It is a rich and flavorful sweet treat that has become an iconic part of Argentinean culture. Its origins date back to the Arab culture, where similar pastries were enjoyed and later adapted by Spanish culture before making their way to South America. The Alfajor Cordobés is typically enjoyed by locals and tourists alike, often alongside a cup of coffee or maté.
Ingredients
- Flour - 300g
- Cornstarch - 100g
- Baking powder - 1 tsp
- Unsalted butter - 200g, softened
- Sugar - 150g
- Eggs - 3
- Vanilla extract - 1 tsp
- Lemon zest - from 1 lemon
- Dulce de leche - 400g
- Confectioners' sugar - for dusting
- Grated coconut - 100g, optional
Preparation
Step 1: Preparing the Dough
To begin making the Alfajor Cordobés, start by sifting the flour, cornstarch, and baking powder together in a large bowl. In another bowl, cream the unsalted butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract and lemon zest.
Step 2: Forming the Dough
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. Divide the dough into two equal parts, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the dough to firm up, making it easier to handle and roll.
Step 3: Rolling and Cutting
Once the dough is chilled, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Roll out each portion of dough on a floured surface to about 5mm in thickness. Use a round cookie cutter to cut out circles from the dough, re-rolling the scraps as necessary.
Cooking Process
Step 4: Baking
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the dough circles on it, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely on a wire rack. For more on timing and precision, check cooking timer.
Step 5: Assembling the Alfajores
Once the cookies are cool, spread a generous amount of dulce de leche on one cookie and top with another to make a sandwich. Press gently to ensure the filling spreads evenly to the edges.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
Roll the edges of the alfajor in grated coconut if desired, and dust the tops with confectioners' sugar for a traditional look and added sweetness.
Serving and Enjoying the Alfajor Cordobés
Pairing Suggestions
The Alfajor Cordobés is perfect for a mid-afternoon snack or dessert. Its sweet and buttery flavors pair exceptionally well with a cup of coffee or traditional Argentine maté, a type of tea enjoyed daily by locals.
Storage Tips
Store the alfajores in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage.