Pasta frolla is a classic sweet tart in Argentina that was introduced by Italian immigrants. In Argentina, pasta frolla is typically served in the afternoon (a time known as merienda), and it is commonly enjoyed with yerba mate. Usually, pasta frolla is filled with quince paste or sweet potato jam, or any jam you like!

This recipe is a summer variation featuring almonds and fresh figs that we serve at Bianca, where I am the co-owner and Executive Pastry Chef. My wife, Marisa, works alongside me and we enjoy sharing the traditional flavors we grew up with and the culture behind them with our guests.

Almond Fig Pasta Frolla

Ingredients

For the dough:

120 grams butter

80 grams sugar

1 egg yolk

150 grams all-purpose flour

¼ teaspoon baking soda

For the almond cream:

9 ounces butter

9 ounces sugar

5 eggs

1 ounce all-purpose flour

9 ounces almond flour

½ teaspoon orange zest

Fig jam (or any fruit jam you prefer)

Preparation

For the dough:

In a mixer with a paddle attachment, cream butter and sugar until white and fluffy. Scrape down the sides and bottom and add the yolk. Mix until combined.

Scrape the sides again and add sifted dried ingredients. Mix until dough forms and separate from the side of the bowl.

Wrap dough with plastic wrap and chill for at least 2 hours before use.

For the almond cream:

In a mixer cream butter and sugar. Scrape down the sides and bottom and add eggs one at a time, scrape down the sides after each addition.

Combine almond flour, all-purpose flour and orange zest together and add last.

To assemble:

Take chilled pasta frolla dough and roll in lightly floured surface until approximately 1/8 inch thick.

Cover a 9” fluted tart pan with removable bottom with the dough.

Pipe a layer of almond cream on the bottom and spread evenly. Then spread a thin layer of jam on top.

Roll the remainder of the pasta frolla dough and cut strips around ½ inch wide. Arrange in a lattice design over jam.

Bake in a preheated oven at 325 degrees for about 45-50 minutes.

Bianca Restaurant and Bakery is located at 8850 Washington Blvd., Culver City, 90232.