Heart-Shaped Alfajores with Dulce de Leche Filling

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines tender cookie layers with a creamy, indulgent center, Heart-Shaped Alfajores with Dulce de Leche Filling are an absolute must-try. These charming, delicate cookies bring together the perfect balance of buttery shortbread and luscious caramel sweetness in a playful heart shape, making them ideal for sharing sweet moments with loved ones. Beyond their beautiful appearance, these alfajores are a celebration of textures and flavors that will brighten any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Presentation: The heart shape adds a romantic and festive touch that’s perfect for gifting or special celebrations.
• Perfect Texture: Soft and crumbly cookies paired with creamy dulce de leche create an irresistible contrast.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, this recipe is surprisingly easy to follow with no complicated steps.
• Versatile Flavor: While traditionally Argentine, dulce de leche carries a universal appeal that pairs well with many occasions.
• Great for Sharing: These bite-sized delights are perfectly portioned for sharing with family and friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to nailing the tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture and authentic flavor of Heart-Shaped Alfajores with Dulce de Leche Filling. Each component—from flour to butter—plays a crucial role in the recipe’s success, balancing moisture, tenderness, and richness.

• All-Purpose Flour: The base for our cookies, creating a soft yet sturdy dough.
• Cornstarch: An essential addition for that signature light and tender crumb.
• Unsalted Butter: Provides richness and a smooth texture—make sure it’s softened to room temperature.
• Sugar: Just the right amount to sweeten without overwhelming the delicate cookie flavor.
• Egg Yolks: Adds moisture and helps bind the dough to perfection.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor with warm, aromatic notes.
• Dulce de Leche: The star filling that brings creamy caramel sweetness and richness.
• Powdered Sugar: For dusting the finished cookies, adding a pretty, snowy finish.

Variations for Heart-Shaped Alfajores with Dulce de Leche Filling

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, so don’t hesitate to make it your own. Whether you want to adjust for dietary needs or explore new flavor profiles, these alfajores can easily accommodate your preferences.

• Chocolate-Dipped: Dip the cookie edges in melted dark or white chocolate for an indulgent twist.
• Nutty Addition: Roll the edges of the filled alfajores in finely chopped nuts like toasted coconut or crushed almonds for added crunch.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make the recipe friendly for gluten-sensitive eaters.
• Flavored Dough: Add a hint of citrus zest or cinnamon to the dough for an aromatically enhanced version.
• Sugar-Free Filling: Use a sugar-free dulce de leche alternative to reduce sugar content without sacrificing taste.

How to Make Heart-Shaped Alfajores with Dulce de Leche Filling

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by creaming the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolks and vanilla extract, beating gently to combine. Sift the flour and cornstarch together, then slowly incorporate them into the wet ingredients. Mix just until a cohesive dough forms, being careful not to overwork it to keep the cookies tender.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up. This step is crucial for easy rolling and maintaining the cookie shape when baked.

Step 3: Cut Out Heart Shapes

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Using a heart-shaped cookie cutter, cut out even shapes and transfer them to a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced apart to allow for slight spreading.

Step 4: Bake Until Lightly Golden

Bake the cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes or until the edges are just turning golden. Avoid overbaking to keep the delicate texture.

Step 5: Cool Completely Before Assembling

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Complete cooling is essential to prevent melting the dulce de leche filling during assembly.

Step 6: Assemble with Dulce de Leche Filling

Spread a generous spoonful of dulce de leche on the flat side of half the cookies. Gently sandwich the remaining cookies on top, pressing lightly to secure but not squish the filling out.

Step 7: Finish with a Dusting of Powdered Sugar

Dust the assembled alfajores with powdered sugar for that classic, elegant look and an extra touch of sweetness.

Pro Tips for Making Heart-Shaped Alfajores with Dulce de Leche Filling

• Butter Temp Matters: Use room temperature butter for smooth creaming and perfect dough texture.
• Don’t Overwork Dough: Mix until just combined to avoid tough cookies.
• Chill Thoroughly: Make sure to chill the dough to maintain shape and ease of cutting.
• Use Quality Dulce de Leche: A rich, creamy filling makes all the difference—look for artisanal or homemade options.
• Even Thickness: Roll the dough evenly to ensure uniform baking and consistent texture.

How to Serve Heart-Shaped Alfajores with Dulce de Leche Filling

Garnishes

Sprinkle the finished alfajores with powdered sugar for a delicate touch. For special occasions, consider drizzling melted chocolate or adding an edible flower for a beautiful presentation.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a cup of rich coffee, chai tea, or hot chocolate to complement the caramel sweetness and enhance a cozy, indulgent break.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange them in a decorative tin or on a tiered serving tray for gifting or parties. Wrap in cellophane with a satin ribbon for a charming homemade gift that expresses love and thoughtfulness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover alfajores in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their softness and flavor.

Freezing

To extend their shelf life, freeze assembled alfajores separated by parchment paper in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

These cookies are best enjoyed at room temperature or slightly warmed. Gently warm in the oven at low heat (around 250°F/120°C) for 5 minutes if you want a freshly baked feel.

FAQs

What is the texture of Heart-Shaped Alfajores with Dulce de Leche Filling?

The cookies are tender, crumbly, and melt in your mouth, perfectly complemented by the creamy, smooth dulce de leche filling.

Can I make dulce de leche at home for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can make dulce de leche by slowly simmering sweetened condensed milk or by cooking it in a water bath until it caramelizes.

Are Alfajores gluten-free friendly?

Classic alfajores use wheat flour, but you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend to make them safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

How long do these alfajores stay fresh?

Stored properly in an airtight container, they stay fresh and delicious for about 3 days at room temperature, or longer if refrigerated or frozen.

Can I use other fillings besides dulce de leche?

Yes! Jam, Nutella, or cream cheese fillings are great alternatives, but dulce de leche remains the traditional favorite for its rich and creamy taste.

Final Thoughts

Heart-Shaped Alfajores with Dulce de Leche Filling are more than just cookies; they are a heartfelt treat that brings smiles and warm memories. Whether you’re baking for a loved one or simply indulging yourself, these delicate, buttery cookies filled with creamy caramel are a true delight. So grab your ingredients, get rolling, and savor every sweet moment shared with these charming alfajores.

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