Picture this: the moment these delicate cookies emerge from the oven, the warm, buttery aroma mingles with the sweet scent of cinnamon and zesty lemon. The soft, tender cookies almost melt in your mouth, releasing waves of luscious dulce de leche that stick lovingly to your fingertips and taste buds alike. Making Alfajores feels like being wrapped in a cozy embrace, and yet it’s impressively quick and easy—perfect for a special treat or an elegant surprise for your loved ones.

Why You’ll Love This Alfajores (Dulce de Leche Sandwich Cookies) Recipe

Ready in about 1 hour and 50 minutes: Including chilling time, these delightful cookies come together without dragging on for hours.
Uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients: Cornstarch, flour, butter, and dulce de leche create magic with pantry staples you probably already have.
Perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike: The straightforward process yields picture-perfect cookies without any fancy techniques.
Impressive presentation: Rolled edges with coconut or a delicate dusting of powdered sugar elevate these cookies to party-grade elegance.
Customizable and forgiving: Lemon zest swaps for orange, vanilla for rum, or even rolling in toasted coconut make this recipe yours to make uniquely delicious.

Why This Alfajores (Dulce de Leche Sandwich Cookies) Recipe Works

This recipe succeeds because of the delicate balance between tender texture and rich filling. The cornstarch combined with all-purpose flour creates a fantastically soft and melt-in-your-mouth crumb that’s unlike traditional crunchy cookies. Creaming the butter and sugar until fluffy introduces air, giving these cookies a delicate lift, while chilling the dough ensures easy rolling and perfectly shaped cutouts. Finally, using luscious dulce de leche as the filling lends irresistible creaminess, sweetness, and that unmistakable caramel charm that makes Alfajores truly special.

Large white plate fully arranged with an even stack of whole alfajores cookies, each with fluted edges, filled with rich dulce de leche and dusted generously with powdered sugar on top; the whole set of cookies is neatly arranged to showcase their golden-baked texture and creamy filling, photographed from a professional 3/4 angle on a white marble background under natural lighting, like a hero shot from a food magazine, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together to create a simple, comforting cookie with layers of lovely texture and flavor. Nothing complicated—just classic components that work in harmony.

Cornstarch: Creates a tender, crumbly texture by softening the gluten network in the dough.
All-purpose flour: Backbone of the dough adding structure while remaining tender.
Baking powder & baking soda: Gentle leaveners that help the cookies rise just enough to be light without puffing up too much.
Ground cinnamon: Adds a subtle warmth and aromatic hint that pairs beautifully with dulce de leche.
Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
Unsalted butter: Room temperature for easier creaming, it delivers richness and tenderness.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens and helps create a light texture when creamed with butter.
Egg yolks: Add moisture, richness, and a silkiness to the dough.
Vanilla extract or dark rum: Adds depth and a warm, fragrant note.
Lemon zest or orange zest: Brightens the flavor profile with citrusy freshness.
Dulce de leche: The heart of the sandwich, its creamy caramel flavor is absolute indulgence.
Powdered sugar and shredded coconut (optional): For dusting and rolling the edges, adding beautiful texture and flair.

Ingredient Substitutions & Tips

Cornstarch: You can substitute with tapioca starch for similar tenderness and a slightly chewier finish.
Vanilla extract: Dark rum or almond extract makes for a wonderful alternative, adding unique aroma notes.
Lemon zest: Orange zest gives a sweeter, fragrant citrus twist if you prefer.
Dulce de leche: If unavailable, use thick caramel sauce or a homemade version with sweetened condensed milk.

👨‍🍳 Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Use room temperature butter and egg yolks: This helps achieve that dreamy, fluffy creamed texture.
Don’t skip chilling the dough: It prevents cookies from spreading too much and makes cutting shapes a breeze.
Roll dough evenly to ¼ inch thickness: Ensures even baking and consistent cookie texture.
Cool cookies completely before sandwiching: Avoids melting the dulce de leche and keeps the cookies firm.
Use a gentle hand when sandwiching: Press only until dulce de leche reaches the edges to maintain the cookie’s delicate texture.

How to Make Alfajores (Dulce de Leche Sandwich Cookies) Recipe

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

Begin by whisking the cornstarch, all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt together in a medium bowl. This mix ensures every cookie has that delicate texture with just a hint of warm spice.

💡 Pro Tip: Give the dry ingredients a good whisk to avoid any lumps and evenly distribute the leavening agents.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In your mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat room temperature butter and granulated sugar on medium speed for about 4 minutes until the mixture looks pale, fluffy, and full of air. This step is key for light, tender cookies.

💡 Pro Tip: Scrape the bowl sides occasionally to ensure even mixing.

Step 3: Add Egg Yolks and Flavorings

Mix in the egg yolks, vanilla extract or rum, and lemon or orange zest until just combined. This enriches the dough with moisture and scent, creating irresistible depth.

💡 Pro Tip: Avoid overmixing here to keep dough tender and prevent tough cookies.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Reduce the mixer speed to low, then slowly add the dry mix. Combine until the dough just comes together, making sure no patches of flour remain. Scrape down the bowl as needed.

💡 Pro Tip: If dough feels sticky, pop it in the fridge briefly before rolling.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a clean surface, divide it into two equal discs, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for about 1 hour. This chilling step firms the dough for clean cookie shapes.

💡 Pro Tip: The chill time can be extended if needed; just keep dough wrapped to prevent drying.

Step 6: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking trays with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and promote even baking.

💡 Pro Tip: Position your oven rack in the center for the best heat circulation.

Step 7: Roll and Cut the Cookies

On a lightly floured surface, roll out one dough disc at a time to about ¼ inch thickness. Use a 2-inch round or scalloped cutter to stamp out cookies, then place them on the prepared baking sheets. Re-roll scraps gently and cut until all dough is used (about 32 cookies total).

💡 Pro Tip: Keep dough moving while rolling to avoid sticking; light flour dusting helps.

Step 8: Bake Until Doré

Bake the cookies for 12 minutes or until their edges show a soft golden brown color. Keep an eye so they don’t overbake—these are meant to be soft and tender, not crispy.

💡 Pro Tip: Rotate trays halfway through baking to ensure even color.

Step 9: Cool Completely

Allow cookies to cool fully on the baking sheet. This step is vital because warm cookies paired with dulce de leche can become messy and break apart.

Step 10: Assemble with Dulce de Leche

Spread about 1 tablespoon of dulce de leche on the bottom side of half the cookies, then sandwich with the remaining cookies. Press gently until the dulce de leche reaches the edges, creating that signature gooey center.

💡 Pro Tip: Use a piping bag or spoon for neat, even filling.

Step 11: Garnish for Extra Flair (Optional)

Roll the cookie sides lightly in shredded coconut for texture and a tropical hint, then dust the tops with powdered sugar through a fine mesh strainer for a snowy finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Learn from these common pitfalls:

Not chilling the dough: Warm dough spreads too much, resulting in flat cookies.
Overbaking: Cookies should be soft and tender, not hard and crunchy.
Skipping the creaming step: This reduces air incorporation, leading to dense cookies.
Using cold butter: Makes creaming difficult and affects texture.
Poor flavor balances: Missing zest or vanilla dulls the cookie’s bright, complex flavors.
Not letting cookies cool before assembling: Filling can melt and cause cookies to break.

Delicious Variations to Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic Alfajores (Dulce de Leche Sandwich Cookies) Recipe, feel free to experiment with these fun twists:

Chocolate-Dipped Alfajores

Dip half of each cookie sandwich in melted dark or milk chocolate, then set on parchment to harden. The bittersweet chocolate deepens every bite beautifully.

Nutty Coconut Alfajores

Mix shredded toasted coconut into the dough and roll the filled edges in coconut for added texture and nutty flavor.

Citrus Infused Alfajores

Add finely grated orange zest to the dough and swirl some citrus marmalade with dulce de leche for a bright, zesty contrast.

Spiced Alfajores

Enhance the cinnamon with a pinch of ground cloves and nutmeg for an aromatic, holiday-inspired cookie.

Salted Caramel Alfajores

Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the dulce de leche filling before sandwiching to balance sweetness with a gourmet touch.

How to Serve Alfajores (Dulce de Leche Sandwich Cookies) Recipe

Single white plate holding a close-up view of one sandwich cookie with a dusting of powdered sugar on the crisp golden cookie top, the cookie is split to reveal a thick, smooth layer of rich caramel filling, angled slightly to showcase the delicate texture of the cookie edges and the luscious interior caramel, set on a white marble surface with soft natural lighting to emphasize the warm tones and inviting layers, styled as an intimate plated serving photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A light dust of powdered sugar evokes a delicate snow-like finish. Rolling the edges in shredded coconut adds texture and tropical character. For celebrations, sprinkle a few edible rose petals or a drizzle of melted chocolate.

Side Dishes

Pair these soft, buttery cookies with robust black coffee or a creamy latte. At tea time, they are lovely alongside a cup of rich chai or a floral jasmine tea.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Alfajores on a tiered dessert stand for a classy touch. Stack a small set on a decorative plate tied with a ribbon for beautiful homemade gifts. For gatherings, plate with fresh berries and a small bowl of extra dulce de leche for dipping.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Alfajores in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The cookies remain tender and the dulce de leche stays luscious without drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze unfilled cookies in a sealed container or bag for up to 2 months. Thaw completely and fill with dulce de leche just before serving for the freshest taste and texture.

Reheating

Warm assembled cookies slightly in a low oven (250°F) for 5 minutes to soften filling if desired. Avoid microwaving as it can make the cookies soggy.

FAQs

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Butter is best for flavor and texture, but margarine can be used as a last resort. Expect a slightly different mouthfeel.

What if I don’t have cornstarch?

Tapioca starch or arrowroot can substitute cornstarch to maintain the soft, tender texture.

Can these cookies be made gluten-free?

Yes! Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and ensure your baking powder is gluten-free. Texture might vary slightly.

Is dulce de leche easy to make at home?

Absolutely. You can simmer a can of sweetened condensed milk on low heat for 2-3 hours or use store-bought for convenience.

How long do these cookies last?

When stored properly, they stay fresh up to 3 days at room temperature and up to a week refrigerated.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be chilled for up to 24 hours before rolling and baking.

What’s the best way to fill the cookies?

A small spoon or piping bag helps distribute dulce de leche evenly without mess.

Why are my cookies crumbly or breaking?

Possible causes include not enough moisture, overbaking, or the dough not being chilled sufficiently before cutting.

Final Thoughts

Alfajores (Dulce de Leche Sandwich Cookies) bring together simplicity, elegance, and an irresistible texture that feels like a warm hug in every bite. Whether you’re baking to impress guests or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite in your kitchen repertoire. The smooth caramel cream center paired with the light, powder-sugar-kissed shell embodies pure comfort and joy.

Have you tried this Alfajores (Dulce de Leche Sandwich Cookies) Recipe? I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment below. If you loved this recipe, please share it with friends and family. Happy cooking! 😊