Alfajor de Trujillo

Alfajor de Trujillo

The Alfajor de Trujillo is a traditional Peruvian dessert that originated in the city of Trujillo. It is a sweet treat made with two layers of buttery cookies filled with a creamy caramel-like filling called manjar blanco. This article will provide a detailed overview of the Alfajor de Trujillo, including its history, ingredients, preparation, and cultural significance.

History

The history of the Alfajor de Trujillo can be traced back to the colonial period in Peru. It is believed to have been influenced by Spanish cuisine, particularly the alfajores that were brought to the region by Spanish settlers. Over time, the Alfajor de Trujillo developed its own unique characteristics and became a beloved dessert in the city of Trujillo.

Ingredients

The main ingredients used in the preparation of Alfajor de Trujillo include:

• Butter: Provides the rich and buttery flavor to the cookies.
• Flour: Forms the base of the cookies and gives them a soft texture.
• Sugar: Sweetens both the cookies and the filling.
• Manjar blanco: A creamy caramel-like filling made from condensed milk, sugar, and vanilla extract.
• Powdered sugar: Used for dusting the cookies.

Preparation

To make Alfajor de Trujillo, the following steps are typically followed:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). 2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. 3. Gradually add the flour to the butter mixture and mix until a soft dough forms. 4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/4 inch. 5. Use a round cookie cutter to cut out cookies from the dough. 6. Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden. 7. Allow the cookies to cool completely. 8. Spread a generous amount of manjar blanco on the bottom side of one cookie and sandwich it with another cookie. 9. Repeat the process until all the cookies are filled. 10. Dust the Alfajor de Trujillo with powdered sugar before serving.

Cultural Significance

The Alfajor de Trujillo holds a special place in the culinary heritage of Trujillo. It is often enjoyed during special occasions and celebrations, such as weddings, birthdays, and religious festivals. The dessert has become a symbol of Trujillo's gastronomic identity and is highly regarded by locals and visitors alike.

See Also

• Peruvian Cuisine
• Manjar Blanco