How to Make Homemade Alfajores: Recipe and Packaging for Selling

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Alfajores are a beloved sweet treat in many Latin American countries, particularly in Argentina, Uruguay, and Peru. These melt-in-your-mouth cookies are traditionally filled with dulce de leche (a rich caramel spread) and are often rolled in powdered sugar or coated in chocolate. They are perfect for gifting, selling at markets, or simply indulging in with a cup of coffee or tea.

Making homemade alfajores not only allows you to enjoy these delicious cookies at home but also offers an excellent opportunity to turn them into a profitable business. Whether you’re starting a small baking business or looking to make some extra income, selling alfajores can be a rewarding and profitable venture.

In this article, we’ll walk you through a simple and authentic recipe for homemade alfajores, along with tips for packaging them beautifully to sell at markets, online, or as gifts.

Why Sell Alfajores?

There are several reasons why alfajores make a great treat to sell:

  1. Universally Loved: Alfajores are loved by people of all ages, making them a popular choice for selling at markets or offering as gifts.
  2. Long Shelf Life: Alfajores have a long shelf life, especially when filled with dulce de leche, which means they can be stored for several days or even a week without spoiling.
  3. Customizable: You can offer different variations of alfajores, such as adding chocolate coating, sprinkles, or different flavored fillings, to make them stand out from other treats.
  4. Profitable: Ingredients for alfajores are relatively inexpensive, and once you perfect the recipe, you can produce a large batch with minimal effort.

Now that we know why alfajores are a great product to sell, let’s move on to the recipe.

Alfajores Recipe

Ingredients for the Dough:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup cornstarch
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk (optional, for extra richness)

For the Filling:

  • 1 can (400g) dulce de leche (store-bought or homemade)

For Coating:

  • Powdered sugar for rolling, or
  • Chocolate coating (dark or milk chocolate, melted) for dipping the alfajores

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough

  • In a bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  • In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter with powdered sugar until light and fluffy. This can be done with an electric mixer or a hand whisk.
  • Add the egg yolks, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the vanilla extract and sweetened condensed milk (if using).
  • Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. You should have a soft, non-sticky dough. If it feels too sticky, add a little more flour.

2. Roll Out the Dough

  • Lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin. Roll the dough out to about 1/4 inch (0.5 cm) thickness.
  • Use a round cookie cutter (2 to 3 inches in diameter) to cut out the alfajores. Re-roll any leftover dough and continue cutting until all dough is used.

3. Bake the Alfajores

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Place the cut-out dough rounds onto the baking sheet, leaving some space between each one.
  • Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are slightly golden. Be careful not to overbake, as alfajores should remain soft and delicate.
  • Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack.

4. Assemble the Alfajores

  • Once the cookies are cooled, spread a generous amount of dulce de leche onto the flat side of one cookie.
  • Sandwich it with another cookie, pressing lightly to spread the filling evenly.
  • If you prefer, you can roll the edges of the alfajores in powdered sugar, or dip them in melted chocolate for a more indulgent treat.

5. Let the Alfajores Set

  • If you’ve dipped the alfajores in chocolate, let them cool on a parchment-lined tray until the chocolate has hardened.
  • If using powdered sugar, dust the finished alfajores with a light coating of powdered sugar.

Tips for Perfect Alfajores

  • Don’t Overwork the Dough: Overmixing or overworking the dough can result in tough cookies. Mix until just combined for a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
  • Chill the Dough: If the dough becomes too soft to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before rolling it out.
  • Use Fresh Dulce de Leche: If possible, use fresh dulce de leche for a richer, creamier filling. Homemade dulce de leche is easy to make by slowly simmering a can of sweetened condensed milk until it thickens to a caramel-like consistency.
  • Add Variations: Experiment with flavored fillings like chocolate ganache, fruit jams, or even Nutella to give your alfajores a unique twist.

Packaging Alfajores for Selling

When selling homemade alfajores, presentation is key. Here are some ideas for packaging them beautifully to attract customers:

1. Cellophane Bags

  • Simple and affordable, cellophane bags can be tied with colorful ribbons or labels. These bags help keep the alfajores fresh and are great for packaging multiple cookies together as gifts or party favors.

2. Kraft Paper Boxes

  • For a more premium look, you can package alfajores in small kraft paper boxes. These can be lined with tissue paper for extra protection, and you can even add a personalized label or sticker on the box for branding.

3. Clear Plastic Jars or Tins

  • If you’re selling alfajores in bulk or as gifts, clear plastic jars or metal tins make an elegant packaging choice. These options allow customers to see the treats inside, adding to the visual appeal. You can also add a small ribbon or twine for a rustic, handmade look.

4. Decorative Labels

  • Include a decorative label on each package with your brand name, ingredients, and the best-before date. This adds a professional touch and reassures customers about the quality and freshness of your product.

5. Individual Wrapping

  • If you’re selling alfajores as individual treats, wrap each cookie in wax paper or clear plastic wrap, and seal it with a sticker or custom label. This makes each cookie easy to grab and go, while also preserving freshness.

Marketing Your Alfajores

To successfully sell your homemade alfajores, consider these marketing strategies:

  • Social Media: Use platforms like Instagram and Facebook to post beautiful pictures of your alfajores. Engage with your followers by offering discounts or giveaways.
  • Farmers’ Markets: Selling at local farmers’ markets is a great way to reach customers who appreciate homemade treats. Make sure to display your alfajores in an attractive, eye-catching way.
  • Online Stores: If you’re looking to expand, consider selling your alfajores on platforms like Etsy, where customers can order them online and have them delivered as gifts or party favors.
  • Collaborate with Local Businesses: Partner with local cafes, gift shops, or event planners who may be interested in selling your alfajores in-store or including them in gift baskets.

Conclusion

Homemade alfajores are a delightful, versatile treat that’s perfect for gifting, selling at markets, or adding to your dessert menu. With a simple recipe and a bit of creativity in packaging, you can create a product that stands out in the marketplace and delights your customers. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or starting a small business, alfajores will surely become a favorite indulgence for many! So, roll up your sleeves, start baking, and get ready to share these delicious treats with the world!

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