Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup Nutella
- 1/2 cup dulce de leche
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Special Equipment Needed:
- Rolling pin
- Cookie cutter (2-inch diameter)
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to 1/4 inch thickness. Use a cookie cutter to cut out circles and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
7. Spread Nutella on the bottom of half of the cookies and dulce de leche on the bottom of the other half.
8. Sandwich the cookies together, pressing gently to adhere the filling.
9. Dust the cookies with powdered sugar before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 10-12 minutes
Temperature:
- 350°F (175°C)
Serving size:
- Makes 12-14 sandwich cookies
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 17g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any brand of hazelnut spread instead of Nutella.
- If you can't find dulce de leche, you can substitute caramel sauce.
Variations:
- You can add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the cookie dough for extra texture.
- Try using different flavors of spread, such as peanut butter or cookie butter.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened before creaming it with the sugar to ensure a smooth dough.
- Don't overwork the dough when rolling it out to prevent tough cookies.
- Use a small cookie cutter to make bite-sized alfajores.
Storage Instructions:
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
- These cookies are best served at room temperature, but you can warm them up in the microwave for a few seconds if desired.
Presentation Ideas:
- Arrange the cookies on a platter and dust with powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.
Garnishes:
- You can top the cookies with chopped nuts or drizzle with melted chocolate for extra decadence.
Pairings:
- Serve these cookies with a cup of coffee or tea for a sweet treat.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- These cookies are perfect on their own, but you can serve them with fresh fruit or a scoop of ice cream for a more indulgent dessert.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the dough is too crumbly, add a tablespoon of milk to bring it together.
- If the cookies spread too much during baking, chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling it out.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to use fresh ingredients and wash your hands and utensils thoroughly before preparing the recipe.
Food History:
- Alfajores are a traditional South American cookie that originated in Spain. They are typically filled with dulce de leche and coated in powdered sugar.
Flavor Profiles:
- These Nutella alfajores are rich and chocolatey with a hint of caramel from the dulce de leche.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve these cookies as a sweet snack or dessert.
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Taste: Sweet, Creamy, Nutty, Chocolatey