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Introduction: Snow alfajores are a heavenly variation of the classic Latin American treat known as alfajores. These melt-in-your-mouth cookies are known for their delicate texture, often dusted with powdered sugar that gives them the appearance of freshly fallen snow. Filled with rich, creamy dulce de leche and with a soft, shortbread-like consistency, snow alfajores are a perfect indulgence for any occasion. Whether you're looking to add a touch of sweetness to a holiday gathering or simply crave a delicious homemade treat, these snow alfajores will surely satisfy your sweet tooth and warm your soul.
Ingredients: For the cookies:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
2 large egg yolks
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon rum or brandy (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
For the filling:
1 cup dulce de leche (or caramel sauce)
For the coating:
1/2 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
Prepare the Dough:
In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. This will take about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer on medium speed.
Add the egg yolks, vanilla extract, and rum (if using). Continue mixing until fully combined.
Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing just until the dough begins to form. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this will affect the texture.
Chill the Dough:
Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This step helps the dough firm up, making it easier to roll out.
Roll and Cut the Cookies:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Remove the dough from the fridge and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness.
Use a round cookie cutter (about 2-3 inches in diameter) to cut out the cookies. You should get around 24 cookies, depending on the size of your cutter.
Place the cut cookies on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
Bake the Cookies:
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden. Be careful not to overbake them, as they should remain light and soft.
Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Assemble the Alfajores:
Once the cookies have cooled, spread a generous amount of dulce de leche on the bottom side of one cookie. Top with another cookie to form a sandwich.
Gently roll the edges of the cookie in powdered sugar, ensuring that the cookies are well-coated for the signature "snow" look.
Serving and Storage Tips:
Serving: Snow alfajores are best served fresh, but they also store beautifully for later enjoyment. Arrange them on a decorative platter for a delightful presentation at parties or gatherings.
Storage: Store the assembled alfajores in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you plan to keep them for longer, they can be refrigerated for up to 1 week, although the texture is best enjoyed at room temperature.
Freezing: If you want to prepare them in advance, you can freeze the unassembled cookies (without the filling and powdered sugar) for up to 1 month. When you're ready to serve, thaw them at room temperature, fill with dulce de leche, and dust with powdered sugar.
Variations:
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