Dessert · Latin American ·

Colombian Arequipe Alfajores with Dulce de Leche Filling

These delicate, buttery cookies are sandwiched with sweet, creamy arequipe, offering a melt-in-your-mouth experience perfect for dessert lovers.

4.2(661 reviews)
·By Ethan Brooks·
Colombian Arequipe Alfajores with Dulce de Leche Filling — Dessert served and photographed from above
Prep
30 min
Cook
1 h 30 min
Difficulty
Intermediate
Serves
4

Preparation

Get these tasks done before you start cooking.

Making the Cookie Dough

  1. 1

    Cream Butter and Sugar

    In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

  2. 2

    Add Yolks and Vanilla

    Add the egg yolks and vanilla extract, beating well to combine.

  3. 3

    Combine Dry Ingredients

    Sift together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt; gradually add to the butter mixture until a soft dough forms.

Preparing the Dulce de Leche Filling

  1. 1

    Boil Condensed Milk

    Immerse the unopened sweetened condensed milk can in a pot of water, ensuring it’s covered by at least 2 inches.

    Tip: Ensure the can is always covered with water to prevent any risk of explosion.

  2. 2

    Simmer Milk

    Simmer for 2 hours, keeping a close eye on the water level, then remove and let cool completely.

    Tip: Pro Tip: Make the dulce de leche a day ahead for ease.

  3. 3

    Season Filling

    Stir in a pinch of salt to enhance flavor.

How to Make Colombian Arequipe Alfajores with Dulce de Leche Filling

Total time: 2 h · Yields 4 servings

  1. 1

    Chill the Dough

    Wrap the cookie dough in plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes.

  2. 2

    Bake the Cookies

    Roll out dough to 1/4-inch thickness, cut into rounds, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.

  3. 3

    Cool and Fill

    Allow cookies to cool completely before spreading arequipe between two cookies.

Chef's Tips

    Further reading

    Frequently asked questions

    How long can I store leftovers?

    Store alfajores in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

    Can I make this ahead?

    Yes, you can prepare the dough and dulce de leche a day in advance.

    Can I substitute the dulce de leche with another filling?

    Yes, try using chocolate ganache or a fruit jam as alternatives.

    How do I prevent the dough from sticking while rolling?

    Dust your rolling surface and rolling pin with flour or cornstarch.

    Can I make the dulce de leche in a pressure cooker?

    Yes, but adjust cooking time to about 40 minutes, ensuring adequate water coverage.

    You might also love

    Browse all recipes

    Explore more from TastyFood

    Looking for something different? Browse by category.