If you’re passionate about irresistible sweets, prepared with love and unparalleled flavor, you’re in the right place! Today, we’ll teach you how to make an Argentine Maizena Alfajor that’s simply divine. The perfect combination of texture and flavor will conquer your heart. Ready to indulge? Let’s get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (7 ounces)
- 3 cups cornstarch (10.5 ounces)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda (0.25 ounces)
- 2 teaspoons baking powder (0.5 ounces)
- A pinch of salt (a pinch)
- 7 ounces unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (5.25 ounces)
- 3 large egg yolks, at room temperature
- 1 tablespoon rum or cachaça (0.5 ounces)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (0.5 ounces)
- Grated zest of 1 lemon
- Caramel filling and shredded coconut for filling and finishing
How to Prepare the Maizena Alfajor:
- In a mixer, combine the butter and sugar until a cream forms.
- Add the egg yolks, rum (or cachaça), vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Continue beating.
- In another bowl, mix the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine the wet and dry mixtures, either in the mixer or by hand.
- Place the dough in a plastic bag and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Roll out the dough on parchment paper to a thickness of 0.2 inches.
- Using a 2.5-inch cutter, cut out 21 units.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10 to 12 minutes.
- Knead and roll out the remaining dough, letting it cool before adding the filling.
- Now that the Maizena Alfajor dough is ready and perfectly baked, it’s time to add the final touch that will make this dessert irresistible: the caramel filling and shredded coconut.
- Generously spread the caramel filling over half of the Alfajor disks. The amount is up to your personal taste, but a uniform layer provides perfect harmony between the sweetness of the filling and the texture of the dough.
- Carefully place the other half of the disks on top of the filled ones. Press lightly so the caramel filling spreads evenly, creating a well-balanced Alfajor.
- For an extra touch of flavor and presentation, finish by coating the sides of the Alfajor with shredded coconut. This not only adds a layer of crunch but also enhances the flavors already present in the recipe.
- Done!
Tips:
If there are any leftovers, store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the caramel filling from drying out. This delicacy can be stored for a few days, but the truth is that it will hardly last that long!
Prep Time and Servings: The total prep time for the Argentine Maizena Alfajor is approximately 1 hour, including refrigeration time. This recipe yields 21 servings, perfect for sharing special moments with friends and family.
Curiosity:
Did you know that Alfajor is a traditional Argentine delicacy, widely appreciated for its unique combination of textures and flavors? Originating in Spain, this sweet treat has conquered the palates of various cultures around the world, becoming an irresistible delight for fine dessert lovers. The addition of shredded coconut at the end provides a special touch, elevating the gastronomic experience even further.
Enjoy sharing with those you love and savoring sweet and unforgettable moments! Bon appétit!