Does anyone want to try a spoonful of ice cream? This durian ice cream recipe is a must-try for adventurous durian fans! It is a perfect way to enjoy the smelliest fruit, and its creamy texture makes the bold taste easier to enjoy!
Everyone's got a sweet tooth, right? Have yourself some Ube ice cream, Pineapple ice cream, and Buko Pandan ice cream too!
Jump to:
What is Durian Ice Cream?
Durian ice cream isn’t only a Filipino dessert, but it’s very popular in the Philippines, especially in Davao City, where durian is easy to find.
Thailand and Malaysia also have their versions of this ice cream. Mavens Creamery, an ice cream company, is known for its viral success. They introduced Mavens Durian ice cream to Costco and major East Coast cities, helping more people try its unique flavor.
History of Durian Ice Cream
These pints of ice cream became popular in the Philippines in the 20th century, especially in Mindanao, where durian is commonly grown.
The exact start of durian ice cream is hard to track. Some say it began as a small batch, possibly using the Monthong family - one of the most popular types of durian.
The recipe became a fun way to make the strong-smelling durian fruits easier to enjoy, even for people who don’t usually like durian flesh and its shark tank appearance.
Ice cream-making came to the Philippines during the Spanish colonial period. Over time, local flavors such as toned-down durian flavors were added, turning them into favorites in Filipino-style ice cream.
When is this Dish Typically Enjoyed?
A durian fan will enjoy this treat in hot weather, at street markets, festivals, and special occasions, especially during the durian harvest season (June to September).
It is often served after meals and tastes great with coconut-based desserts. Some people say the ice cream's signature soft, creamy texture is like Mavens' custardy ice cream base. Give this a try and let me know your comments below!
Substitutions
- Durian Extract – Using fresh durian pulp gives a real durian flavor and a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk – For a dairy-free choice, use coconut condensed milk. You can also mix maple syrup with full-fat milk for a lighter sweetness.
- Heavy Cream – You can swap it with coconut cream, a mix of evaporated milk and butter for a rich taste, or blended cashews and almond milk for a plant-based option.
- Salt – Replace with sea salt for a mild taste, pink Himalayan salt for added minerals, or miso paste for an umami boost.
Recipe Variations
- Durian Coffee Ice Cream – Boosted with espresso powder and vanilla for coffee lovers
- Thai-Style Durian Ice Cream with Pandan – Infused with pandan leaves for a floral aroma
- No-Churn Durian Coconut Ice Cream – Dairy-free version using coconut cream and coconut condensed milk for a tropical twist
Storage
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container and put in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- To prevent ice crystals, place a layer of plastic wrap directly on top before sealing.
Ingredients
Listed below are all the ingredients you will need:
- durian extract
- sweetened condensed milk
- heavy cream
- salt
See the recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
In a blender, combine durian extract (or pre-blended frozen/fresh durian meat), condensed milk, heavy cream, and salt.
Blend until smooth and well combined.
Pour the mixture into an airtight container.
Cover tightly with cling film to prevent ice crystals from forming.
Then, freeze the mixture for at least 12 hours, preferably overnight, for the best texture.
Put some ice cream scoops in the glass and garnish with peppermint leaves.
You may also sprinkle them with toasted coconut flakes or crushed nuts for extra crunch.
Serve and enjoy a unique frozen treat!
Hint: For a stronger durian flavor, use fresh or frozen durian meat instead of extract.
⭐ Top Tip
- If using fresh durian for your ice cream recipe, make sure to blend it thoroughly before adding other ingredients.
- For a softer, no-churn ice cream, mix in whipped heavy cream instead of blending everything at once.
FAQ
More Recipes
Into the sweet aroma and creaminess of ice cream? I have more right here:
Durian Ice Cream
Ingredients
- 1 ½ teaspoons durian extract or 1 cup of chopped fresh/frozen durian meat, blended*
- 1 ½ cups sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
Blend the Ingredients:
- In a blender, combine durian extract (or blended durian meat), condensed milk, heavy cream, and salt.
- Blend until smooth and well combined.
Freeze the Mixture:
- Pour the blended mixture into an airtight container.
- Cover tightly with cling film to prevent ice crystals from forming.
Set Overnight:
- Freeze the mixture for at least 12 hours, preferably overnight for the best texture.
Serve & Enjoy:
- Scoop and serve it plain or garnish it with peppermint leaves, toasted coconut flakes, or crushed nuts for extra crunch.
Notes
Watch The Recipe Video!
Storytelling Time!
The strong smell of durian has been compared to baby diapers, cat poo, and even a dead opossum - yet durian fans know that inside its thorny shell lies a sweet taste worth the surprise!
Some people say durian is as love-it-or-hate-it as a bully stick for dogs. Others say its rich consistency is like a splash of chocolate, making it a fancy treat.
One thing’s for sure - durian is an expensive fruit you won’t forget!
Liz says
Lainey, this was so good, thank you for sharing!
Julius says
I don't enjoy the taste of durian fruit, but I do like durian candy, so maybe durian ice cream will be okay.🤔😊
Dimple says
Durian lover here so I say this is an awaited recipe!😍😍
Sweet says
I super looooooooove ice cream! But I'm not sure about Durian... hehehe
Sheen says
I love ice cream but I hate durian fruit. Maybe this is the time I should learn to love this durian fruit? Hahaha, I will definitely try this recipe out soon!!
Cheng says
This looks delicious and easy to make! I would love to try this durian ice cream version someday. Thanks for sharing! 🙂
Millie W says
LAINEY, this tasted amazing! It's so easy to make!
Anika says
Great recipe, Lainey!
Claire M says
Any recipe with durian is okay for me but not the durian itself haha
Again the base recipe for ice cream works but how do the coconut condensed and whipped cream vary?