The Story Behind Argentina’s Alfajores (With Recipe)

If there’s one treat that defines Argentina’s sweet tooth, it’s alfajores.
These soft, delicate cookie sandwiches filled with gooey dulce de leche and often coated in chocolate, powdered sugar, or coconut are an integral part of Argentinian daily life.

From cafes to kiosks, alfajores are everywhere, a national obsession that blends European roots with Latin American passion.

In this guide, we’ll uncover the fascinating history of alfajores, explain why they’re so important in Argentina, and give you an authentic recipe so you can make them at home!

What Are Alfajores?

Credit to Cooking With Books

Alfajores are:
• Two soft cookies (sometimes shortbread-like) sandwiched together.
• Filled with rich, sticky dulce de leche.
• Coated in chocolate, powdered sugar, or rolled in shredded coconut.

A Brief History of Alfajores

Moorish Origins

• The concept of alfajor comes from Moorish Spain (al-hasú: “stuffed”).
• Originally made with almonds, honey, and spices.

Spanish Colonization

• Spanish colonizers brought the sweet concept to Latin America in the 16th century.
• Over time, ingredients adapted to local produce—dulce de leche became the perfect filling.

Rise of the Modern Alfajor in Argentina

• In the 19th and 20th centuries, Argentina adapted alfajores into what they are today.
• Mass production made alfajores an everyday snack—available in kiosks, bakeries, and supermarkets.

Types of Alfajores in Argentina

1. Alfajor de Maicena

• Cornstarch-based cookies.
• Super soft and crumbly.
• Filled with dulce de leche and rolled in shredded coconut.

2. Chocolate-Coated Alfajores

• Cookies dipped completely in dark or milk chocolate.
• Heavier and indulgent—great for dessert.

3. Alfajor de Merengue

• Coated with a light, sugary meringue glaze.
• Popular at traditional bakeries.

The Cultural Importance of Alfajores in Argentina

1. A Daily Ritual
   • Kids pack alfajores in lunchboxes.
   • Office workers grab them with coffee for afternoon snacks.
2. Gift-Giving
   • Premium alfajores (like Havanna brand) are gifted during holidays, birthdays, and special events.
3. Festivals
   • Some towns host entire Alfajor Festivals, especially in Córdoba and Mar del Plata.

Authentic Alfajores de Maicena Recipe

Credits to Peru Delights

Ingredients

For the Cookies:
• 1 ½ cups cornstarch
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ¾ cup unsalted butter (room temp)
• ⅔ cup sugar
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1 whole egg
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon

For the Filling:
• 1 cup dulce de leche (thick variety)
• Shredded coconut for rolling (optional)

Step-by-Step: How to Make Alfajores

Step 1: Make the Dough

• Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
• Add egg yolks, whole egg, vanilla, and lemon zest.
• Sift together cornstarch, flour, and baking powder.
• Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Shape the Cookies

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Roll dough to ¼-inch thickness.
• Cut out 2-inch round cookies.
• Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 3: Bake

• Bake for 10–12 minutes until set but still pale (they shouldn’t brown).
• Cool completely before filling.

Step 4: Fill and Assemble

• Spread dulce de leche onto one cookie.
• Top with a second cookie.
• Roll edges in shredded coconut if desired.

Optional: Dip assembled alfajores in melted chocolate for a chocolate-coated version.

Pro Tips for Perfect Alfajores

1. Use High-Quality Dulce de Leche
• “Repostero” (pastry-grade) dulce de leche is thicker and holds better.

2. Chill the Dough
• Resting dough for 30 minutes in the fridge helps cookies hold shape better.

3. Handle Gently
• Alfajores cookies are very delicate—careful when assembling!

Variations of Alfajores Across Argentina

Credits to Wooden Table Baking Co

1. Córdoba Style
   • Bigger, thicker alfajores are often coated with powdered sugar.
2. Mar del Plata Style
   • Famous for chocolate-dipped alfajores like Havanna.
3. Regional Flavors
   • Some regions add fruit jams, honey, or different nut coatings.

Best Brands of Alfajores to Try

Havanna
• Premium brand, famous worldwide.

Cachafaz
• High-end competitor to Havana.

Guaymallén
• Classic, budget-friendly alfajor is sold at almost every kiosk.

FAQs About Alfajores

Can I Store Alfajores?

Yes.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Can I Freeze Alfajores?

Absolutely.
Freeze before filling for best texture preservation.

Are Alfajores Gluten-Free?

Not traditionally.
However, you can make gluten-free alfajores using only cornstarch.

Conclusion

Alfajores aren’t just cookies; they’re a symbol of Argentine sweetness, hospitality, and daily joy.
Whether you enjoy a quick supermarket snack or bite into a handmade, coconut-rolled masterpiece, alfajores bring smiles with every gooey, buttery mouthful.

source https://sazonytumbao.com/history-of-alfajores/