Alfajor de Quinua (Quinoa Alfajor): A Delicious Treat from the Andes
Welcome to the world of Alfajor de Quinua, a delightful twist on a traditional Latin American treat! This sweet sandwich cookie has its roots in the rich culinary history of South America, particularly in countries like Peru and Argentina. The Alfajor is usually made with flour and filled with dulce de leche, but our recipe takes a healthier approach by using quinoa—a superfood packed with nutrients.
Quinoa, often referred to as a “grain,” is actually a seed that is gluten-free and rich in protein. Combining this superfood with the classic cookie flavors makes the Alfajor de Quinua not only delicious but also a fantastic choice for health-conscious dessert lovers. Whether you’re looking for a snack or a special treat to share with friends and family, this recipe is sure to impress!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Quinoa flour | 2 cups |
| Cocoa powder | 1/4 cup |
| Brown sugar (or coconut sugar) | 1/2 cup |
| Baking powder | 1 tsp |
| Salt | 1/4 tsp |
| Butter (or vegan butter) | 1/2 cup |
| Egg (or flax egg for vegan option) | 1 |
| Dulce de leche (or caramel sauce) | 1 cup |
| Powdered sugar (for dusting) | 1/2 cup |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix the quinoa flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- In another bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar together until fluffy.
- Add the egg to the butter mixture and mix well until combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick, then cut into circles (about 2 inches in diameter).
- Bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden. Allow them to cool completely.
- Spread a layer of dulce de leche on half of the cookies and sandwich with the other half.
- Dust with powdered sugar and enjoy!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 150 | 8% |
| Protein | 3g | 6% |
| Carbohydrates | 20g | 7% |
| Fats | 7g | 11% |
| Sugar | 10g | 11% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
Tips and Tricks
- Variations: You can experiment by adding cinnamon or vanilla extract for extra flavor.
- Make it vegan: Use flax eggs instead of regular eggs and vegan butter.
- Storage: Keep your Alfajores in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Common Mistake: Overbaking can make the cookies too hard; keep an eye on them in the oven!
FAQs
What is an Alfajor?
An Alfajor is a traditional cookie sandwich filled with sweet filling, often dulce de leche. Our version uses quinoa for a healthier twist.
Can I use regular flour instead of quinoa flour?
Yes, you can use regular all-purpose flour if you’re not following a gluten-free diet. However, quinoa flour adds a unique flavor and extra nutrients!
How do I make a flax egg?
To make a flax egg, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to thicken.
Can I freeze Alfajores?
Yes! You can freeze the unfilled cookies. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
What can I use instead of dulce de leche?
If you can’t find dulce de leche, you can use caramel sauce or nut butter as alternatives.
How long do these cookies last?
When stored properly in an airtight container, they can last up to a week at room temperature.
Is this recipe suitable for kids to make?
Yes! This recipe is great for kids, especially when supervised while using the oven.
Can I add other fillings?
Absolutely! You can fill your Alfajores with jam, chocolate ganache, or even whipped cream for a fun twist!
Are these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, when using quinoa flour, these cookies are naturally gluten-free.
What can I serve with Alfajores?
These cookies are delicious with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. They also pair well with fresh fruit!
Now that you have the recipe for Alfajor de Quinua, it’s time to get baking! Enjoy this sweet treat and share it with family and friends. Happy cooking!
