Caramel-Filled Sandwich Cookies (Alfajores-Style)

 Caramel-Filled Sandwich Cookies (Alfajores-Style)

These delicate, buttery sandwich cookies are filled with rich caramel and dusted with powdered sugar for a refined, elegant touch. Perfectly stacked on a pristine white plate, they create a visually stunning and mouthwatering treat.

Ingredients:

For the Cookies:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

½ cup cornstarch

½ tsp baking powder

¼ tsp salt

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

½ cup granulated sugar

1 large egg yolk

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 tsp lemon zest (optional, for a citrusy touch)

For the Caramel Filling:

1 cup dulce de leche (store-bought or homemade)

For Dusting:

2 tbsp powdered sugar

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough:

In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt.

In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Mix in the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and lemon zest (if using).

Gradually add dry ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Shape into a disk, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.

Bake the Cookies:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out dough to about ¼-inch thickness on a lightly floured surface.

Cut into small circles (about 2 inches in diameter) and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Let cool completely.

Assemble the Sandwich Cookies:

Spread or pipe a generous amount of dulce de leche onto one cookie, then gently press another cookie on top.

Repeat for all cookies, stacking them neatly for an elegant presentation.

Dust & Serve:

Lightly dust the tops with powdered sugar for a sophisticated finish.

Arrange on a pristine white plate against a charming blue-and-white checked fabric backdrop.

Capture the delicate textures with soft, diffused lighting to enhance the interplay of light and shadow.