Alfajores

Ingredients

• 1 can sweetened condensed milk (label removed)
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract done
• 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (for garnish)

Instructions

1. 1
   In a large pot, fill with water to cover the can of sweetened condensed milk. Over high heat, bring to a boil. Let simmer for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, making sure to add more water as necessary. Remove the can of dulce de leche from the water and let cool to room temperature.
2. 2
   Preheat oven to 350˙F. In a medium bowl combine flour and salt. In a stand-up mixer cream together butter, sugar and vanilla extract for 3-4 minutes, mixture will turn light and fluffy. As mixer is going, add in flour mixture and mix until combined. Shape into a disc, wrap in plastic and
3. 3
   refrigerate for 30 minutes.
4. 4
   On a heavily floured surface, roll out the dough to 1/2-inch thickness. The dough will be a little sticky so be sure to flour your roller, too. Using a 1 1/2-inch round cutter, cut out shortbread cookies and place on baking sheet. Poke a series of three holes, using a fork, in the center of each cookie.
5. 5
   Transfer cookies to oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are slightly golden brown. Let cool on wire rack. To assemble the sandwiches, open the can of dulce de leche. Lay half of the shortbread cookies bottom-side up. Spread about 1/2 teaspoon of dulce de leche on one half of the cookies. Top with the other half and lightly press down until you’ve gone through all the cookies. Dust with powdered sugar.