Classic Argentinian Cornstarch Alfajores (Alfajores de Maicena)

Soft, delicate and filled with dulce de leche – the perfect treat for afternoon mate.

At Taste of Colombianz, we love sharing traditional South American flavours that bring comfort, warmth and a sense of home. Today, we’re celebrating MMM — Mate, Merienda & Midweek moments with a timeless classic: Alfajores de Maicena.

These cornstarch alfajores are light, crumbly and melt in your mouth. Paired with a warm cup of yerba mate, they make the perfect afternoon indulgence — just like back home.

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🧉 What are Alfajores de Maicena?

Alfajores de maicena are a traditional South American biscuit made with cornstarch instead of only flour, giving them their signature soft and tender texture. They’re filled generously with dulce de leche and rolled in shredded coconut — simple ingredients, unforgettable flavour.

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Alfajores de Maicena Recipe

Ingredients

For the dough

• 150 g unsalted butter (softened)
• 120 g icing sugar
• 2 egg yolks
• 1 tsp vanilla essence
• 150 g plain flour
• 220 g maizena
• ½ tbsp baking powder

For the filling

• Dulce de leche
• Shredded coconut

👉 For the authentic flavour, we recommend using high-quality dulce de leche like the one available in our store.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cream the butter and icing sugar until light and smooth.
2. Add the egg yolks and vanilla essence, mixing gently.
3. Incorporate the flour, cornstarch and baking powder.
4. Bring the dough together carefully — do not overwork it.
5. Wrap the dough in cling film, roll it out evenly and let it rest for 15–20 minutes.
6. Cut the alfajores and bake at 180°C for 10–12 minutes.
   They should stay pale — avoid browning.
7. Allow to cool completely, then fill with dulce de leche and roll the sides in shredded coconut.

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✨ Tip of the Day

Avoid over-kneading the dough. The less you handle it, the softer and more delicate your alfajores will be.

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The Perfect Pairing: Alfajores & Mate

Nothing complements alfajores better than a traditional cup of yerba mate. The balance between the sweetness of dulce de leche and the earthy notes of mate creates a truly authentic South American merienda.

🧉 Explore our selection of yerba mate and dulce de leche to recreate this experience at home in New Zealand.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic South American flavour
• Soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture
• Perfect for sharing or gifting
• Ideal for afternoon tea or mate time