Description
This Authentic Andalusian Alfajores recipe captures the traditional flavors of southern Spain with a delightful blend of honey, toasted almonds, hazelnuts, and warm spices. These sweet, nutty cookies are perfectly crumbly with a hint of citrus zest, finished with a dusting of powdered sugar for an irresistible treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Alfajores Dough
- 250 g Honey
- 150 g Toasted almonds (whole and then crushed)
- 150 g Toasted hazelnuts (whole and then crushed)
- 100 g Breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp Ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp Ground cloves
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for a fresh citrus note)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare Nuts: Toast the almonds and hazelnuts until golden and fragrant, then crush them coarsely to create a crunchy texture that will form the base of the alfajores dough.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed toasted almonds, hazelnuts, breadcrumbs, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves evenly to distribute the spices throughout.
- Add Honey and Lemon Zest: Pour the honey into the nut and breadcrumb mixture, add the lemon zest if using, and mix thoroughly until all ingredients come together to form a sticky, moldable dough.
- Shape Cookies: Take small portions of the dough and shape them into small discs or rounds, pressing firmly to hold the shape but keeping them slightly crumbly for the traditional texture.
- Chill and Set: Place the shaped alfajores on a tray lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up and help the flavors meld.
- Dust and Serve: Once chilled and set, dust the alfajores generously with powdered sugar before serving for a classic sweet finish.
Notes
- To toast nut evenly, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes, stirring halfway.
- Breadcrumbs should be plain and dry for best texture; stale bread breadcrumbs work perfectly.
- For a more citrus flavor, you can add a little extra lemon zest or even a touch of orange zest.
- Store alfajores in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Keywords: Alfajores, Andalusian cookies, honey cookies, traditional Spanish dessert, nut cookies, gluten free dessert