Andalusian Alfajores with Honey, Almonds, and Hazelnuts Recipe
Andalusian Alfajores are a traditional Spanish treat combining the rich flavors of honey, toasted nuts, warm spices, and a subtle hint of citrus. This no-bake recipe features a blend of toasted almonds and hazelnuts mixed with breadcrumbs and spices, molded into delicate morsels, and finished with a dusting of powdered sugar for a sweet, aromatic experience perfect for festive occasions or everyday indulgence.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (toasting nuts)
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: About 20-25 alfajores, depending on size 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Spanish
Ingredients
Scale
Alfajor Mixture
- 250 g Honey
- 150 g Toasted almonds (whole, then crushed)
- 150 g Toasted hazelnuts (whole, then crushed)
- 100 g Breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp Ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp Ground cloves
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for a fresh citrus note)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare the Nuts: Toast the almonds and hazelnuts either in a dry skillet over medium heat or in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 8-10 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned. Allow to cool, then crush them coarsely using a mortar and pestle or pulse briefly in a food processor to maintain some texture.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the honey with the crushed toasted almonds and hazelnuts. Add the breadcrumbs, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and lemon zest (if using). Stir the mixture thoroughly until it forms a sticky, cohesive dough.
- Shape the Alfajores: With lightly moistened hands, form small bite-sized balls or flattened discs from the mixture, pressing gently to compact them. The mixture should hold together well but remain slightly crumbly on the edges.
- Chill: Place the shaped alfajores on a tray lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This helps the flavors meld and firm up the texture.
- Dust and Serve: Before serving, dust the alfajores generously with powdered sugar. Arrange on a serving platter and enjoy as a sweet, nutty treat.
Notes
- Toasting the nuts enhances their flavor and aroma, adding depth to the alfajores.
- The lemon zest is optional but adds a delightful freshness that balances the sweetness of the honey.
- If the mixture is too sticky, add a few more breadcrumbs to achieve the right consistency for shaping.
- Store the alfajores in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- This recipe involves no baking, making it a quick and easy treat to prepare.
Keywords: Andalusian Alfajores, Spanish sweets, nutty honey treats, no-bake dessert, traditional Andalusian recipe