Are you a digital nomad, traveler, or expat with a sweet tooth exploring the vibrant streets of Buenos Aires? Delve into the heart of Argentina’s culinary tradition with “The 10 Best Brands of Alfajores in Buenos Aires,” presented by ExpatPathways.
This guide is your ultimate map to discovering the alfajor, a confection that encapsulates the soul of Argentine indulgence. From the iconic Havanna to the cult favorite Capitán del Espacio, each brand offers a unique slice of Buenos Aires’ rich cultural tapestry.
Whether you’re seeking to satisfy your cravings or hunting for the perfect edible souvenir, join us on this delectable journey that promises to be as enriching as it is delicious.
The Best Brands of Alfajores in Buenos Aires
1. Havanna
Havanna has been synonymous with quality for over 75 years, evolving from a must-buy Mar del Plata souvenir to an international emblem of Argentine sweetness.
The founders spent six months perfecting their recipe, resulting in a brand that today is recognized for its diverse range of alfajores. From the classic chocolate and dulce de leche varieties to innovative flavors like white chocolate with nuts, 70% cocoa, and coffee, Havanna continues to expand its offerings.
Recent additions include the Semilia (with rice flour dough), the Super dulce de leche (with almond flour), and a plant-based version made with buckwheat flour and almond sweet, catering to a broad spectrum of tastes and dietary preferences.
Best Havanna Alfajores
- Classic meringue and dulce de leche alfajor
- Classic chocolate alfajor
- 70% pure cocoa alfajor
- Nut alfajor
- Fruit alfajor
- White chocolate alfajor
- Semilia alfajor (made from rice flour)
- Vegan 70% cocoa alfajor (filled with almond dulce de leche)
2. Jorgito & Jorgelín
Jorgito, on the other hand, began its journey in 1960 and quickly became a staple in Argentine kiosks, thanks to its founders’ innovative distribution strategies.
Known for its quality, Jorgito offers alfajores in glaze, fruit, and the most popular dulce de leche covered in chocolate. Despite facing competition from modern snacks and premium lines, Jorgito has retained its special place in the hearts of Argentines, reminiscent of childhood flavors.
The brand’s success is reflected in its significant market share, with its classic two-cookie dulce de leche alfajores and its “cousin” brand, Jorgelín, which offers a triple-layered, more substantial version of the beloved treat.
Best Jorgito Alfajores
- White chocolate alfajor
- Fruit alfajor
- Dark chocolate alfajor
- Dulce de leche alfajor
Best Jorgelín Alfajores
- Triple dulce de leche alfajor
- Triple white chocolate alfajor
- Triple chocolate alfajor
3. Terrabusi
Terrabusi stands as a testament to tradition and quality, boasting a heritage of 110 years. It has positioned itself as a leading global manufacturer of chocolates and biscuits, thanks to the relentless efforts and innovation of three Italo-Argentine brothers.
Without resorting to unusual inventions or recipes, Terrabusi alfajores have won over the palates of Argentines, offering straightforward dulce de leche fillings with either dark chocolate or sugar glaze coatings.
Best Terrabusi Alfajores
- Triple chocolate with dulce de leche alfajor
- Glazed white alfajor
- Triple cake alfajor
4. Cachafaz
Cachafaz, known as the “expensive but excellent” alfajor, has carved its place within the premium segment. With origins shrouded in legend, including tales of a disgruntled former employee and a stolen recipe, Cachafaz has challenged the dominance of established brands.
It offers a premium experience with its gold-wrapped chocolate alfajores filled with dulce de leche, integral, and organic product lines, and has become synonymous with quality and luxury in the alfajor world.
Best Cachafaz Alfajores
- Dark chocolate alfajor
- White chocolate alfajor
- Cornstarch alfajor
- Mousse alfajor
5. Milka
Milka, with over 120 years of producing tender chocolate using 100% Alpine milk, brings a unique flavor to its alfajores.
The brand is renowned for its chocolate-covered alfajores, which have expanded over the years to include varieties filled with dulce de leche, white chocolate, and even chocolate Oreo versions, showcasing Milka’s commitment to innovation and quality.
Best Milka Alfajores
- Classic mousse alfajor
- Triple mousse alfajor
- White chocolate with mousse alfajor
6. Oreo
Oreo alfajores have managed to merge the iconic taste of their classic cookies with the beloved Argentine alfajor, winning over fans of both with their inventive approach.
Initially mirroring the original cookie’s flavors—chocolate, cream, and chocolate coating (either white or dark)—Oreo has since expanded its range to include variations like dulce de leche, reflecting a blend of global and local tastes.
Best Oreo Alfajores
- Triple alfajor
- Triple cake alfajor (Version produced by Oreo and Milka)
7. Águila
Águila, primarily known for its chocolates, offers an exceptional “Tortas” alfajor line.
Their mini cake-style alfajores, filled with dulce de leche, vanilla mousse, and covered in chocolate, stand out for their delicious taste, quality ingredients, and delightful moisture, making them a favorite choice in kiosks across the city.
Best Águila Alfajores
- Classic minicake
- Brownie minicake
- White chocolate minicake
- Red fruits minicake
8. Guaymallén
Guaymallén epitomizes mass appeal with its cost-effective yet delicious alfajores.
Leading sales in 2021, particularly its white chocolate-covered version, this brand’s history as the first mass producer of alfajores in Argentina since its foundation in 1944 is a testament to its enduring popularity and commitment to quality, evidenced by its vast daily production and consumption.
Best Guaymallén Alfajores
- Classic dulce de leche with white chocolate coating alfajor
- Classic dulce de leche with dark chocolate coating alfajor
- Quince alfajor
- Triple dulce de leche alfajor
- Guaymallén Gold alfajor
9. Capitán del Espacio
Capitán del Espacio, a beloved classic from the southern part of Greater Buenos Aires, recently celebrated 60 years of unwavering popularity, largely attributed to its exceptional price-quality ratio.
Despite its founder’s aversion to advertising, the alfajor became a cult object among its fans, enveloped in a shroud of mystery. The scarcity of production, primarily concentrated in Buenos Aires’ southern zone, has led to treasure hunts across the city, with fans sharing tips and locations on social media.
Its limited availability in stores, offering only dulce de leche, fruit and chocolate varieties, hasn’t deterred enthusiasts who claim it’s the “best alfajor in the world,” a passion that has transcended the confection itself to inspire graffiti, tattoos, and even themed desserts and beverages.
Best Capitán del Espacio Alfajores
- Dark chocolate alfajor
- Dulce de leche alfajor with sugar glaze
- Fruit alfajor
10. Blanco y Negro (by Bagley)
The Blanco y Negro alfajores by Bagley, meanwhile, took the 1990s by storm, not only due to their impactful marketing but also because of the undeniable appeal of the product itself.
The aesthetically striking packaging, inspired by Japanese artist Fukuda and created with the first Mac in Argentina, added to its allure.
The alfajores are known for their unique chocolate coatings—white or dark—and the addition of crushed nuts, making them an unforgettable treat that stood out for its innovative presentation and added ingredients, leading to a significant surge in sales.
Best Blanco y Negro (Bagley) Alfajores
- Dulce de leche alfajor with dark chocolate coating
- Dulce de leche alfajor with white chocolate coating
- Triple alfajor with dulce de leche and cream filling
(Featured Image Source: Manuel Fernández/flickr.com)
