If you’re craving a dessert that’s both elegant and comforting, this easy homemade alfajores biscuit cake is exactly what you need. Made with tender, buttery biscuits sandwiching a rich, creamy dulce de leche filling, this cake is a beloved treat that’s surprisingly simple to make.
Whether you’re new to alfajores or a longtime fan, this alfajores biscuit cake recipe will quickly become your go-to for celebrations or whenever you want a sweet indulgence. The combination of textures and flavors is pure magic, and you’ll love how approachable the steps are.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
- Soft, buttery biscuits baked to perfection with a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- The luscious dulce de leche filling offers a creamy, caramel flavor that’s irresistible.
- Perfect for special occasions or everyday treats.
- Can be made ahead and stored for several days without losing freshness.
Ingredients
Gather these straightforward ingredients to create your alfajores biscuit cake. The recipe breaks down into biscuit and filling components for easy prep.
Biscuit Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Filling
- 1 cup dulce de leche (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (optional, for sweetness adjustment)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 37 minutes
- Servings: 12 alfajores sandwich cakes
- Calories: Approximately 220 per serving
How to Make Easy Homemade Alfajores Biscuit Cake – The Best Creamy Treat You’ll Ever Make!
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes using a hand mixer.
- Add the egg yolks and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 tablespoon each, and place them 2 inches apart on the baking sheets. Flatten each ball gently to about 1/4-inch thickness.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are just golden. Let the biscuits cool completely on a wire rack.
- While the biscuits cool, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form, then fold gently into the dulce de leche to create a creamy filling.
- Once cooled, pair biscuits of similar size. Spread about 1 tablespoon of the dulce de leche cream onto the bottom of one biscuit, then sandwich with the other biscuit on top.
- Dust the finished alfajores with powdered sugar before serving for a beautiful, classic look.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use cornstarch in the biscuit dough to achieve that signature light, tender crumb.
- Don’t overbake the biscuits; they should remain pale with just a hint of golden edges.
- Chill the dough for 15 minutes if it feels too soft to handle easily.
- For an extra touch, roll the edges of the filled biscuits in shredded coconut before dusting with powdered sugar.
- Make sure the biscuits are fully cooled before assembling to prevent the filling from melting.
Storage and Reheating
Store your alfajores biscuit cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to keep the cream fresh and the biscuits soft. If you prefer, separate the filling and biscuits and assemble just before serving.
For longer storage, freeze the biscuits and dulce de leche cream separately for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and assemble before serving. Reheating isn’t recommended as it may compromise the texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes alfajores biscuits different from regular cookies?
Alfajores biscuits are distinguished by the addition of cornstarch, which gives them a uniquely tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture compared to standard cookies. They are also typically sandwiched with a creamy dulce de leche filling.
Can I use store-bought dulce de leche for the filling?
Yes, store-bought dulce de leche works perfectly and saves time. Just make sure it’s smooth and creamy for easy spreading. You can also whip it with cream to lighten its texture.
How can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
To make a vegan version, substitute butter with a vegan margarine, replace egg yolks with a flaxseed or chia seed egg, and use coconut cream whipped with dairy-free caramel spread instead of dulce de leche.
Is it necessary to dust the alfajores with powdered sugar?
Dusting with powdered sugar is traditional and adds a lovely sweetness and aesthetic appeal, but it’s optional. You can also roll the edges in shredded coconut or chopped nuts for a different finish.
