polvoron

Vanjo Merano’s selected polvoron is a sweet, crumbly Filipino dessert made with toasted flour, powdered milk, granulated sugar and butter. Crushed pinipig adds roasted-rice crunch when included.

All-purpose flour is toasted in a pan while being stirred until it turns light brown and gives off its aroma. It cools before being transferred to a mixing bowl.

Powdered milk and granulated sugar are stirred into the cooled flour. Crushed pinipig is distributed through the mixture, and softened unsalted butter brings the ingredients together.

The mixture stands before portions are shaped with a polvoron mould. Each piece is placed on cellophane and wrapped before serving.

Merano connects polvoron with childhood town-fiesta memories and describes the toasted flour’s slightly nutty flavour. The powdered milk contributes a sweet, milky character, while pinipig gives this version a crunchy addition.