Alfajores – Delicate Cookies with Dulce de Leche Caramel and Coconut Coating

• wheat flour↗200г g
• corn flour300г g
• baking powder↗2 ч. л. tsp
• unsalted butter250г g

  softened at room temperature

• granulated sugar150г g
• lemon↗цедра 1 шт. pcs
• egg yolks↗3
• brandy↗1 ст. л. tbsp
• vanilla extract↗1 ч. л. tsp
• dulce de leche jam↗450г g
• desiccated coconut↗50г g

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   In a large bowl combine wheat flour, corn flour, leavening agent and a pinch of salt. In another bowl beat the softened butter with the fine sugar and lemon zest until the mixture is very light. Add the yolks, then the brandy and vanilla extract. Incorporate the dry ingredients and knead a smooth dough. Wrap it in cling film and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or prepare a day ahead).

2. 2

   Line two large baking trays with parchment paper. On a lightly floured surface roll the dough to about 5 mm thickness. Cut 60 circles of 5 cm diameter using a round or serrated cutter. Place the cut cookies in the refrigerator for 20 min to firm up.

3. 3

   Preheat the oven to 180 °C (160 °C with convection, gas 4). Bake the cookies for 8 min until they are just lightly browned and remain light and crisp. Let the cookies cool completely, then spread dulce de leche on the bottom cookie with a tablespoon and top with the second cookie to form a “sandwich”. Roll the finished “sandwiches” in desiccated coconut.

4. 4

   Store the finished alfajores in an airtight container – they will stay soft and fragrant for several days.