Chilenitos

Indulge in Chilenitos, delightful Chilean cookies filled with rich manjar and dusted with powdered sugar. Perfect for an afternoon treat or a festive gathering, these sweet bites will transport you to the heart of Chile.

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup sugar
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup manjar (dulce de leche)
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar

Method

1. 1

   In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

2. 2

   Add the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.

3. 3

   In a separate bowl, whisk together the sifted flour and baking powder.

4. 4

   Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until a smooth dough forms.

5. 5

   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness and cut into small circles using a cookie cutter.

6. 6

   Place the circles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 10-15 minutes or until lightly golden.

7. 7

   Once cooled, spread a layer of manjar on one circle and top with another circle to form a sandwich.

8. 8

   Dust the finished Chilenitos with powdered sugar before serving.