Alfajor
Buenos Aires, Argentina
An alfajor is a filled sandwich cookie, commonly joined with dulce de leche and coated in chocolate, sugar or coconut. Texture ranges from crisp and crumbly to soft and cake-like, and the filling should provide richness without making the cookie collapse.
Why locals eat it
Argentina has many regional alfajor styles, but Buenos Aires is an excellent place to compare bakery, café and packaged versions. It is a snack for any time of day, not only a dessert, and the differences in coating and biscuit are part of the fun.
Local tip
Buy one fresh from a bakery before trying a packaged brand, and check whether it contains nuts or dairy. A small alfajor pairs well with coffee because the dulce de leche is concentrated.
Typically made with
flour, cornstarch, dulce de leche, chocolate coating, powdered sugar. Recipes vary — always check with the vendor if you have allergies.