What is alfajores?
Alfajores (pronounced al-fa-ho-res), found in Spain and South America, are a confection consisting of two butter cookies sandwiching a layer of dulce de leche, or milk caramel. There can be many variations on this basic formula.Origin of NameThe term alfajores (singular alfajor) is derived from an Arabic term meaning “filled.”OriginThe Arabic origin of their name points to alfajores’ origin during the period when the Moors (Muslim Arabs) ruled Spain from the eighth to the 15th centuries. Later, the Spanish exported their cuisine to their colonies in the New World.RangeVersions of alfajores are found in certain parts of Spain as well as nearly every country in South America including Argentina, Peru, Paraguay, Uruguay and Chile.VariationsAlfajores are often dipped in white or dark chocolate. Another version coats the cookie with merengue. If not coated, alfajores are usually dusted with powdered sugar; sometimes cinnamon is added to the dusting mix. Their edges can be rolled in coconut.
