Gluten-Free Alfajores: Delightful Dulce de Leche Sandwich Cookies
Alfajores, those melt-in-your-mouth sandwich cookies filled with creamy dulce de leche, are a beloved treat in many Latin American countries. Traditionally made with wheat flour, these sweet delights can be off-limits for those following a gluten-free diet. But fear not! This recipe brings the joy of alfajores to everyone with a simple, yet utterly delicious, gluten-free version. Get ready to experience the perfect balance of crumbly cookies and luscious caramel filling.
Why Gluten-Free Alfajores?
For those with celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, or simply those choosing a gluten-free lifestyle, finding satisfying desserts can be a challenge. This recipe offers a solution, allowing you to enjoy the authentic flavors of alfajores without the worry of gluten. It’s also a fantastic way to introduce a classic treat to friends and family with dietary restrictions.
Understanding the Ingredients
Crafting gluten-free alfajores requires careful selection of ingredients to mimic the texture and flavor of traditional cookies. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why:
* **Gluten-Free Flour Blend:** This is the foundation of our cookies. A blend typically includes rice flour, tapioca starch, and potato starch. These flours, when combined, provide a structure similar to wheat flour. It’s important to use a high-quality blend; pre-made blends often have xanthan gum already added, which is crucial for binding the dough.
* **Almond Flour:** Adds a nutty flavor and a slightly sandy texture, contributing to the characteristic crumbly quality of alfajores.
* **Cornstarch:** Enhances the tenderness of the cookies, giving them a melt-in-your-mouth feel.
* **Xanthan Gum:** A vital ingredient in gluten-free baking, xanthan gum acts as a binder, replacing the gluten that would normally hold the dough together. It prevents the cookies from becoming crumbly and falling apart. If your flour blend already contains xanthan gum, you may need to reduce the amount added separately. Always check the label!
* **Butter:** Essential for flavor and texture. Use unsalted butter, softened to room temperature, for optimal creaming.
* **Sugar:** Granulated sugar adds sweetness and helps create a tender crumb.
* **Egg Yolks:** Contribute to richness, tenderness, and a slightly chewy texture. Using only yolks, rather than whole eggs, ensures a more delicate cookie.
* **Vanilla Extract:** Enhances the overall flavor and adds a touch of warmth.
* **Lemon Zest (Optional):** A subtle addition that brightens the flavor and adds a unique twist. A little goes a long way.
* **Dulce de Leche:** The star of the show! This caramelized milk confection provides the signature creamy, sweet filling. You can find it in most Latin American grocery stores or online. You can also make your own (see recipe below).
* **Powdered Sugar (Optional):** For dusting the finished alfajores, adding a touch of elegance.
The Perfect Gluten-Free Alfajores Recipe
This recipe yields approximately 24 alfajores (12 sandwiches).
**Ingredients:**
**For the Cookies:**
* 1 ½ cups (192g) Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour Blend (with xanthan gum or add separately)
* ½ cup (56g) Almond Flour
* ¼ cup (30g) Cornstarch
* ¼ teaspoon Xanthan Gum (omit if your flour blend already contains it)
* ½ cup (113g) Unsalted Butter, softened
* ½ cup (100g) Granulated Sugar
* 3 Large Egg Yolks
* 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
* 1 teaspoon Lemon Zest (optional)
* Pinch of Salt
**For the Filling:**
* 1 (13.4 oz) can Dulce de Leche
**For Dusting (Optional):**
* Powdered Sugar
**Equipment:**
* Mixing bowls
* Electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer)
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Plastic wrap
* Rolling pin
* Round cookie cutter (about 2 inches in diameter)
* Baking sheets
* Parchment paper
* Wire rack
**Instructions:**
**1. Prepare the Dough:**
* In a medium bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour blend, almond flour, cornstarch, xanthan gum (if using), and salt. This ensures even distribution of the dry ingredients.
* In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer. Properly creaming the butter and sugar is essential for a tender cookie.
* Beat in the egg yolks one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and lemon zest (if using). Mix until well combined.
* Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies. The dough will be slightly crumbly, which is normal.
**2. Chill the Dough:**
* Divide the dough in half. Place each half on a sheet of plastic wrap, flatten it into a disc, and wrap tightly. Chilling the dough is crucial for preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking and for making it easier to roll out. The chilling allows the gluten-free flours to hydrate properly.
* Refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour, or preferably 2-3 hours, or even overnight. The longer the dough chills, the easier it will be to handle.
**3. Roll and Cut the Cookies:**
* Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
* Remove one disc of dough from the refrigerator. On a lightly floured surface (use a gluten-free flour blend), roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thickness. Work quickly, as the dough will soften as it warms up. If the dough becomes too sticky, return it to the refrigerator for a few minutes to firm up.
* Use a 2-inch round cookie cutter to cut out cookies. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, leaving a little space between each one.
* Gather the scraps of dough, gently re-roll them, and cut out more cookies. Repeat until all the dough is used. Re-rolling the dough multiple times can make it tougher, so try to minimize the number of times you re-roll it.
**4. Bake the Cookies:**
* Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden. Watch them carefully, as gluten-free cookies can burn easily.
* Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling the cookies on a wire rack prevents them from becoming soggy.
**5. Assemble the Alfajores:**
* Once the cookies are completely cool, spread a generous amount of dulce de leche on the flat side of one cookie.
* Top with another cookie, pressing gently to create a sandwich.
* Repeat with the remaining cookies and dulce de leche.
**6. Dust with Powdered Sugar (Optional):**
* If desired, dust the assembled alfajores with powdered sugar before serving. This adds a touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
**7. Enjoy!**
* These gluten-free alfajores are best enjoyed within a few days, stored in an airtight container at room temperature. The cookies will soften over time, so try to eat them while they are still slightly crisp.
Tips for Perfect Gluten-Free Alfajores
* **Use a good quality gluten-free flour blend:** The quality of your flour blend will significantly impact the texture of the cookies. Experiment with different blends to find one that you like.
* **Don’t skip the xanthan gum:** Xanthan gum is essential for binding the dough and preventing it from becoming too crumbly. If your flour blend already contains xanthan gum, you may need to reduce the amount added separately.
* **Chill the dough:** Chilling the dough is crucial for preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking and for making it easier to roll out.
* **Don’t overmix the dough:** Overmixing the dough can result in tough cookies.
* **Bake until lightly golden:** Gluten-free cookies can burn easily, so watch them carefully and bake until the edges are lightly golden.
* **Let the cookies cool completely before assembling:** This will prevent the dulce de leche from melting.
* **Use good quality dulce de leche:** The flavor of the dulce de leche will significantly impact the overall flavor of the alfajores. Use a good quality dulce de leche or make your own.
Making Homemade Dulce de Leche
While store-bought dulce de leche is convenient, making it at home is surprisingly easy and yields an even more delicious result. Here are two methods:
**Stovetop Method:**
* **Ingredients:** 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
* **Instructions:** Remove the label from the can of sweetened condensed milk. Place the unopened can in a large pot and cover it completely with water (at least 2 inches above the can). Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Simmer for 2-3 hours, checking the water level periodically and adding more water as needed to keep the can covered. The longer you simmer it, the darker and thicker the dulce de leche will be. After simmering, carefully remove the can from the pot and let it cool completely before opening. *Important: Do not open the can while it’s hot, as it could explode.*
**Oven Method:**
* **Ingredients:** 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
* **Instructions:** Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Pour the sweetened condensed milk into a pie dish or oven-safe baking dish. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. Place the dish in a larger baking pan and fill the outer pan with hot water, creating a water bath. Bake for 1 ½ – 2 hours, stirring every 30 minutes, until the dulce de leche is a deep caramel color and thickened. Let cool completely before using.
Homemade dulce de leche will be smoother and richer than many store-bought versions.
Variations on Gluten-Free Alfajores
The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different flavors and coatings to create your own unique alfajores.
* **Chocolate Alfajores:** Add 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a chocolatey twist. You can also dip the finished alfajores in melted chocolate.
* **Coconut Alfajores:** Roll the edges of the assembled alfajores in shredded coconut for added texture and flavor.
* **Citrus Alfajores:** Use orange or lime zest instead of lemon zest for a different citrus flavor. You can also add a teaspoon of citrus juice to the dough.
* **Spiced Alfajores:** Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced flavor.
* **Nutella Alfajores:** Use Nutella instead of dulce de leche for a hazelnut-chocolate filling.
* **Jam-Filled Alfajores:** Replace the dulce de leche with your favorite jam or preserve.
Serving and Storing Gluten-Free Alfajores
Gluten-free alfajores are perfect for serving at parties, potlucks, or as a special treat for yourself. They pair well with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk. They also make a wonderful homemade gift.
To store, keep the alfajores in an airtight container at room temperature. They are best enjoyed within 3-4 days, as the cookies will soften over time. You can also freeze the un-filled cookies for up to 2 months. Thaw them completely before filling with dulce de leche.
Gluten-Free Baking FAQs
* **Can I use a different gluten-free flour blend?** Yes, but results may vary depending on the blend. Look for a blend that is specifically designed for baking.
* **Can I substitute the almond flour?** You can try using another nut flour, such as hazelnut flour or pecan flour. However, the flavor and texture will be slightly different.
* **Can I use a sugar substitute?** I haven’t tested this recipe with sugar substitutes, so I can’t guarantee the results.
* **Why are my cookies spreading too much?** This could be due to several factors, such as using too much butter, not chilling the dough long enough, or baking at too low of a temperature. Make sure to follow the recipe carefully and adjust the baking time and temperature as needed.
* **Why are my cookies too dry?** This could be due to using too much flour or overbaking the cookies. Measure the flour accurately and bake until the edges are lightly golden.
Conclusion
These gluten-free alfajores are a delightful treat that everyone can enjoy. With their delicate, crumbly cookies and creamy dulce de leche filling, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to bake a batch of these irresistible gluten-free sandwich cookies. You won’t be disappointed!
Enjoy baking and sharing these delightful gluten-free Alfajores!