Introduction
Imagine biting into a sweet treat that’s not only delicious but also packs a nutritious punch. Enter the **Alfajor De Quinua (Quinoa Alfajor)**. This delightful dessert, originating from the Andes, is a twist on the traditional alfajor, swapping out simple ingredients for wholesome quinoa. Known for its unique flavors, this treat brings together the nutty taste of quinoa with rich fillings like dulce de leche, making it a standout in the world of desserts. In this article, you’ll learn how to make **Alfajor De Quinua (Quinoa Alfajor)** at home, explore various delightful variations, and dive into its nutritional benefits. Whether you’re a dessert aficionado or a health-conscious eater, you’re in for a treat with this recipe!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up your own batch of **Alfajor De Quinua (Quinoa Alfajor)**:
| Ingredient | Measurement | Description |
| Quinoa | 1 cup | Quinoa adds a delightful nuttiness and is a complete protein, making the alfajores even more nutritious. |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 tsp | A splash of vanilla extract enhances the flavors, giving a warm, inviting aroma to your alfajores. |
| Almond Flour | 1/2 cup | Almond flour contributes to a pleasant texture and offers healthy fats, elevating the overall taste. |
| Dulce de Leche | 1 cup | This rich, caramel-like filling is what makes the alfajor irresistibly sweet and creamy. |
| Honey or Agave Syrup | 1/2 cup | Natural sweeteners keep the recipe on the healthier side, adding just the right amount of sweetness. |
| Baking Powder | 1 tsp | Helps the cookies rise and become fluffy, giving that perfect bite. |
| Salt | A pinch | Enhances all flavors and balances the sweetness of the dulce de leche. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now it’s time to get cozy in the kitchen! Here’s how to bring your **Alfajor De Quinua (Quinoa Alfajor)** to life, step-by-step.
- Prepare the Quinoa: Rinse the quinoa thoroughly to remove its natural coating called saponin, which can be bitter. Then, cook it according to package instructions until fluffy. This forms the tasty base for your alfajores.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine almond flour, baking powder, and salt. This mixture creates the perfect dry base, adding texture and flavor to your **Alfajor De Quinua (Quinoa Alfajor)**.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together cooked quinoa, honey or agave syrup, and vanilla extract. This blend creates a sweet and aromatic mixture that balances well with the dry ingredients.
- Form the Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. Don’t overmix; you want to keep that lovely quinoa texture intact.
- Shape the Cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take small portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Flatten them slightly to form cookies and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake: Pop the cookies in the oven for about 12-15 minutes or until they turn a light golden brown. Let them cool slightly before assembling your alfajores.
- Assemble & Serve: Once cooled, spread a generous amount of dulce de leche between two cookies to form a sandwich. To amp up the flavor, you can roll the edges in shredded coconut or crushed nuts.
Pro Tips
– Always rinse your quinoa well before cooking to eliminate any bitter flavors.
– For a different flavor profile, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or cocoa powder to the dough.
– If you prefer a vegan version, substitute dulce de leche with a homemade coconut-based caramel.
– Make sure your cookies cool completely before assembling; this prevents the filling from melting out.
– Experiment with various fillings like fruit preserves or nut butters for unique **Alfajor De Quinua (Quinoa Alfajor)** variations.
Nutritional Information
For those of you watching your macros or simply curious about what you’re indulging in, here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving of **Alfajor De Quinua (Quinoa Alfajor)**:
| Nutritional Component | Per Serving |
| Calories | 210 |
| Protein | 5g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Saturated Fats | 2g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Sugars | 10g |
| Fat | 8g |
FAQs
**What is the best way to store Alfajor De Quinua (Quinoa Alfajor)?**
Store your alfajores in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want them to last longer, consider refrigerating them.
**Can Alfajor De Quinua (Quinoa Alfajor) be made vegan or gluten-free?**
Absolutely! Substituting egg with a flaxseed mixture and using gluten-free flours can easily make this recipe suitable for vegans and those avoiding gluten.
**What are the best side dishes to serve with Alfajor De Quinua (Quinoa Alfajor)?**
These sweet delights pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. You might also think of serving fresh fruit or yogurt on the side for a balanced meal.
**How long does it take to prepare Alfajor De Quinua (Quinoa Alfajor)?**
Preparation takes about 30 minutes, with an additional 15 minutes for baking, making this a quick and delightful treat.
**Can I freeze Alfajor De Quinua (Quinoa Alfajor) for later?**
Yes, you can freeze them! Just make sure to individually wrap each alfajor to avoid freezer burn. They will stay good for up to three months in the freezer.
**What other fillings work well for Alfajor De Quinua (Quinoa Alfajor)?**
In addition to dulce de leche, other delicious fillings include fruit jams, chocolate ganache, or even almond butter for a nutty twist.
**Can I use other grains instead of quinoa?**
While traditional alfajores usually contain wheat flour, you can try using oats or buckwheat flour for different textures and flavors.
**How can I make my Alfajor De Quinua (Quinoa Alfajor) more festive?**
Dip them in melted dark chocolate or drizzle with a chocolate sauce, topping with crushed nuts or sprinkles for an eye-catching dessert that wows guests.
