Andalusian Alfajores Recipe

Introduction

Andalusian Alfajores are a traditional sweet treat made with honey, toasted nuts, and warm spices. These delightful confections offer a perfect balance of rich, nutty flavors with a hint of citrus, making them an irresistible snack or dessert.

Ingredients

• 250 g Honey
• 150 g Toasted almonds (can be whole and then crushed)
• 150 g Toasted hazelnuts (can also be whole and crushed)
• 100 g Breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon Ground cloves
• Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for a fresh citrus note)
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

1. Step 1: Crush the toasted almonds and hazelnuts into a coarse powder. If using, grate the lemon zest now to prepare for the next step.
2. Step 2: In a large pan or pot, gently heat the honey over low heat. Stir constantly for about 5 minutes until it liquefies and begins to bubble lightly. Add ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and lemon zest, mixing well to combine.
3. Step 3: Add the crushed almonds and hazelnuts to the hot honey mixture, stirring to coat the nuts evenly. Gradually stir in the breadcrumbs until the mixture is thick but manageable. If it feels too dry, add a small amount of honey.
4. Step 4: Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then shape small portions into cylinders or discs.
5. Step 5: Dust the shaped alfajores generously with powdered sugar. Let them rest for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to develop fully.

Tips & Variations

• Toast the nuts for enhanced flavor and crunch.
• Add a bit more honey if you prefer a sweeter finish.
• Allow them to rest; the flavor deepens with time.
• Try adding nutmeg or cardamom for a different spice profile.
• Mix in dried fruits or experiment with other nut varieties for unique textures.

Storage

Store the alfajores in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. They will keep fresh for up to two weeks and often taste even better after resting for a day or two. For longer storage, you can freeze them in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use raw nuts instead of toasted nuts?

Yes, but toasting the nuts enhances their flavor and gives them a pleasant crunch that raw nuts lack.

Is it necessary to let the alfajores rest?

Yes, resting allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a richer and more balanced taste.

Andalusian Alfajores Recipe

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Andalusian Alfajores are traditional Spanish sweet treats made by combining toasted almonds and hazelnuts with honey, cinnamon, and cloves. These delicately spiced nutty confections are shaped into cylinders or discs, dusted with powdered sugar, and left to rest for at least 24 hours to develop deep, rich flavors. Perfect served alongside tea or coffee, they offer a delightful combination of chewy texture and aromatic spices, making them a cherished snack in Andalusia.

• Author: Maya
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes active, plus 24 hours resting time
• Yield: Approximately 20–25 alfajores 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Spanish
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Nut Mixture

• 250 g Honey
• 150 g Toasted almonds (can be whole and then crushed)
• 150 g Toasted hazelnuts (can also be whole and crushed)
• 100 g Breadcrumbs

Spices and Flavorings

• 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon Ground cloves
• Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for a fresh citrus note)

Finishing

• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Crush the toasted almonds and hazelnuts into a coarse powder, taking care not to over-process. If using, grate the zest of one lemon for a fresh citrus hint.
2. Cook the Honey and Spices: Heat the honey in a large pan or pot over low heat, stirring constantly for about 5 minutes until liquified and gently bubbling. Stir in the ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and lemon zest to combine the flavors thoroughly.
3. Incorporate the Nuts and Breadcrumbs: Add the crushed nuts to the hot honey and mix well to evenly coat them. Gradually add breadcrumbs while stirring continuously until the mixture thickens yet remains manageable. Adjust the sweetness or moisture by adding a little more honey if necessary.
4. Shape the Alfajores: Allow the mixture to cool slightly. Then, take small portions and form them into cylinders or discs based on your preference.
5. Decorate with Powdered Sugar before Resting: Dust the shaped alfajores liberally with powdered sugar for a charming finish. Place them in an airtight container and let them rest at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld and develop fully.

Notes

• Toast the nuts beforehand to deepen flavor and improve texture.
• Adjust sweetness by adding extra honey if desired.
• Resting time is crucial for flavor development; do not skip.
• Store alfajores in an airtight container at room temperature in a cool, dry place for up to two weeks.
• Freezing is possible for extended storage; ensure airtight packaging to prevent freezer burn.
• Optional variations include adding spices like nutmeg or cardamom or incorporating dried fruits or different nut varieties.

Keywords: Andalusian alfajores, Spanish desserts, honey nuts treats, cinnamon spice sweets, traditional Spanish recipe