Did you know that 1 cookie (50 g) Alfajor contains approximately 200 calories? If you're curious about the ingredients, fat and sugar content and how to make them at home, keep reading.
Alfajor cookies are a traditional Spanish and Latin American dessert. The basic ingredients include flour, butter, sugar, eggs, and cornstarch. Some recipes also call for milk and vanilla extract.
There are many variations of this cookie, but the most common ones are made with two round cookies sandwiched with dulce de leche or other sweet fillings such as jam or nutella.
Calories in 1 Alfajor Cookie
As stated before, 1 cookie (50 g) Alfajor has approximately 200 calories. This information may vary depending on the recipe and filling used.
Ingredients in an Alfajor Cookie
The main ingredients in an alfajor cookie are flour, butter, sugar, eggs, and cornstarch. Some variations may include milk, vanilla extract, or grated lemon zest. The filling can be dulce de leche, jam, nutella or any other sweet filling of your choice.
Fat Content in Alfajor Cookies
Due to the butter content, alfajor cookies are high in fat. Depending on the recipe, they can contain up to 10 grams of fat per cookie. It is important to keep this information in mind when consuming them.
Sugar Content in Alfajor Cookies
Alfajor cookies are quite sweet due to the high sugar content of the recipe. One cookie can contain 15 grams of sugar or more, depending on the filling and recipe.
How to Bake Alfajor Cookies at Home
Baking alfajor cookies at home is easy with the right recipe. You can find many variations online or in traditional cookbooks. A basic recipe involves mixing flour, sugar, and cornstarch, then adding eggs, softened butter and any additional flavorings such as lemon zest or vanilla extract. Once the dough is prepared and rested, it's time to roll it out and cut it into small circles. Then, you can bake them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown. Once baked, let them cool for a few minutes before sandwiching them with your desired filling. To store them, place them in an airtight container and store them in a cool, dry place for up to a week.
Alfajor Cookies as a Dessert Option
Alfajor cookies are a delicious sweet treat that can be enjoyed as a dessert option. They are perfect for sharing with friends and family, and can be customized to your taste preferences.
Gluten-Free Alfajor Cookies
For those with gluten allergies or sensitivities, gluten-free alfajor cookies are a great alternative. You can substitute the wheat flour with almond flour, rice flour or cornstarch.
Variations of Alfajor Cookies
Alfajor cookies can be customized to your liking with different fillings, such as dulce de leche, nutella, jam or even whipped cream. You can also experiment with different cookie flavors, such as chocolate or lemon.
Alfajor Cookies and Dieting
Alfajor cookies should be consumed in moderation, especially for those on a diet. The high fat and sugar content can quickly add up, so it's important to keep track of your intake. Opting for the gluten-free or low-fat versions can also be a good option.
Storing Alfajor Cookies for Later
To store alfajor cookies, place them in an airtight container and keep them in a cool, dry place. They can last up to a week, but for longer storage, you can freeze them. Before freezing, make sure they are completely cooled down, and store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to eat, let them thaw at room temperature before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions About Alfajores
1. How many calories are in one Alfajor?
One Alfajor, which weighs 50 grams, contains around 200 calories. However, the exact number may vary between brands and types of Alfajores.
2. What is an Alfajor made of?
Generally, an Alfajor consists of two round cookies filled with dulce de leche (a caramel-like spread made from condensed milk), and coated in powdered sugar. Some variations include coconut flakes, chocolate, or nuts.
3. Where do Alfajores come from?
Alfajores are a traditional dessert from South America, particularly from Argentina, Uruguay, and Peru. However, they have gained popularity worldwide and can now be found in many countries.
4. Can Alfajores be vegan or gluten-free?
Yes, there are vegan and gluten-free versions of Alfajores available. They use different ingredients such as rice flour instead of wheat flour and plant-based milk instead of dairy milk.
5. How should I store Alfajores?
Alfajores should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature. They have a relatively long shelf life and can stay fresh for several weeks. However, if you prefer a softer texture, you can store them in the fridge.