Andalusian Alfajores Recipe
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.
- 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
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Shape the Alfajores: Allow the mixture to cool slightly. Then, take small portions and form them into cylinders or discs based on your preference.
- 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
Find it online: https://messykitchenmagic.com/andalusian-alfajores-recipe/
