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Pronunciation: [ahl-fah-HOH-rehs]

These cookies are a favorite in many South American countries such as Chile, Peru and Uruguay, and particularly in Argentina. Traditional versions consist of two cookies sandwiching a layer of the caramel-like mixture known as dulce de leche. The cookie can be made from wheat flour, corn flour, cornstarch or chuño mixed with sugar, butter (or shortening) and a variety of other flavorings including peanuts, lemon zest and/or various nuts. Alfajores come plain or covered with a variety of coatings such as frosting, chocolate, powdered sugar or coconut. Besides dulce de leche, they may also be filled with fruit jams or pastes.