For best results, use a high-quality dulce de leche. If the dough is too sticky to roll, chill it for a longer period. Store the finished Alfajores in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Embark on a culinary journey to Latin America with these delicate, melt-in-your-mouth Alfajores. These gluten-free sandwich cookies, made with a base of fine cornstarch and filled with luscious dulce de leche, are a true celebration of flavor and texture. A dusting of shredded coconut adds the perfect finishing touch to these irresistible treats.
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. (5 minutes)
Whisk cornstarch, flour, baking powder, and baking soda together in a large bowl; set aside. (3 minutes)
In a separate bowl, beat butter and sugar together with an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Whisk in egg yolks, one at a time, until well combined, adding lemon zest and vanilla extract with last yolk. Fold into flour mixture with a spoon, mixing until dough holds together and forms a ball. Wrap in plastic wrap; refrigerate for 30 to 60 minutes. (15 minutes + 30-60 minutes chilling)
Roll dough out to about ¼-inch thickness on a lightly floured surface; cut with a small round cookie cutter and place on the prepared baking sheets. (15 minutes)
Bake in the preheated oven until set but not browned, 7 to 10 minutes. Transfer immediately to cool on a wire rack. (7-10 minutes)
Spread flat underside of 1 cookie with 1 teaspoon dulce de leche. Sandwich together with another cookie until filling comes out on the sides; roll sides in shredded coconut. Repeat with remaining cookies, dulce de leche, and coconut. (20 minutes)
For best results, use a high-quality dulce de leche. If the dough is too sticky to roll, chill it for a longer period. Store the finished Alfajores in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.