Alfajores are, without a doubt, the most popular baking treat in Uruguay and neighboring Argentina. The ancient cookie sandwich, filled with dulce de leche (literally ‘milk candy’), can be traced to the Middle Age Muslim dominated Spain, but it’s now as South American as Tango dancing.

The secret behind the crusty but soft cookie sandwiches is the filling. Dulce de leche, which is basically burnt condensed milk, is sweet, silky, and creamy, not dissimilar to caramel or chocolate, but better, and making it at home is incredibly fun. You just need a few cans of sweetened condensed milk and boiling water.

Although the classic expression of the alfajor is two cookies held together by dulce de leche, you can find many styles, from chocolate-coated treats to others filled with fruit. The ones we’re making today are classic, but there’s a twist. We’re rolling the sticky sides in grated coconut for added freshness and an extra layer of texture and flavor.

Alfajores are great with coffee, and they’re the perfect dessert after a wholesome dinner paired with wines from Uruguay. The cookies are also thoughtful gifts for housewarming parties or close friends and family; no one can resist a good alfajor!

What you’ll need:
For this recipe, you’ll need a large pot for boiling water, a
few bowls of different sizes, three baking trays, and a stand
mixer.

You’ll also need parchment paper and plastic wrap, but most
importantly, a good glass of wine and some music because making
cookies, particularly alfajores, is tons of fun!