Ingredients

1/2 cup butter , at room temperature
1/4 cup shortening , at room temperature
1 cup light brown sugar
1 egg , at room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 cups flour
1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup ground pecans ( toast lightly before grinding )
dulce de leche ( store-bought or homemade )
Praline Alfajores are popular in South America and are enjoyed as a dessert or snack by people of all ages. The word alfajor refers to a sandwich cookie that is usually filled with dulce de leche, a caramel-like sauce made from sweetened milk. Praline Alfajores take the concept of the traditional alfajor to the next level by incorporating ground pecans into the cookie batter for a nutty crunchiness that adds a layer of complexity to the dessert. These sweet and crumbly sandwich cookies are perfect to enjoy alongside a cup of coffee or tea, or to share with friends and family during festive occasions such as Christmas and Easter.

Instructions

1.Preheat oven to 350°F.
2.In a mixing bowl, cream butter, shortening and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3.Beat in egg and vanilla.
4.In another bowl, whisk flour, cream of tartar and salt; gradually beat into creamed mixture.
5.Stir in the ground pecans.
6.Refrigerate dough for 30 minutes.
7.Roll dough into 1/4-in.-thick circles.
8.Cut with a floured 2-in. round cookie cutter.
9.Place 1 in. apart on ungreased baking sheets.
10.Bake until light brown, 7-9 minutes.
11.Cool on pans 2 minutes.
12.Remove from pans to wire racks to cool completely.
13.Spread dulce de leche over half of the cookies; cover with remaining cookies.

PROS

Praline Alfajores have a delightful crumbly texture that is infused with the nutty and buttery flavor of pecans.
The addition of dulce de leche to sandwich the cookies enhances the sweetness of the dessert, resulting in a mouth-watering explosion of flavors that is just incredible.

CONS

These cookies are quite high in calories and fat due to the butter and dulce de leche.
As such, you should enjoy them in moderation as a treat, rather than a dietary staple.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Pecans are known to be rich in dietary fiber, healthy fats, antioxidants, minerals and vitamins that are beneficial to our health. They help to lower cholesterol levels, reduce inflammation, and improve digestion. Dulce de leche, on the other hand, contains high levels of calcium and phosphorus which are essential for the formation of healthy bones and teeth. Additionally, it is also a good source of vitamins B12 and B6 which help to improve brain function and reduce the risk of heart disease, depression and anemia.

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