Durian. The fruit with a reputation so strong, people either love it or run for the hills. But here in Davao, Durian delicacies are a staple—sweet, creamy treats that capture the essence of the King of Fruits in all its glory. For the uninitiated, navigating the world of Durian candies and desserts can be overwhelming. So, we took one for the team. Durian. The fruit with a reputation so strong, people either love it or run for the hills. But here in Davao, Durian delicacies are a staple—sweet, creamy treats that capture the essence of the King of Fruits in all its glory. For the uninitiated, navigating the world of Durian candies and desserts can be overwhelming. So, we took one for the team. The ultimate Durian delicacies taste test: we tried them all! From the mild to the bold, here’s our ultimate taste test of Davao’s Durian delicacies—and trust us, We guarantee you will want to sample some of these.
1. Classic Durian Candy: The Crowd Favorite
First up: the classic. If you’ve never tried Durian delicacies before, this is where you start. Durian candy is sweet, creamy, and delivers that iconic Durian flavor without the overwhelming intensity of the fresh fruit. It’s the perfect way to dip your toes (or taste buds) into the Durian world. We found it to be mild but true to the fruit’s flavor.
2. Durian Yema: Creamy and Rich
Next up, we dove into Durian yema, a rich custard-like treat that combines the sweetness of yema with the creamy punch of Durian. If you like your candies soft and indulgent, this one’s for you. The Durian flavor comes through beautifully but without the intensity you might expect from fresh Durian. It’s almost like biting into a cloud of sweet custard with a hint of Durian.
Taste Test Verdict: Smooth, creamy, and satisfying. A 9/10 for those who like their sweets rich and velvety.
3. Durian Tart: The Flaky Favorite
Are you looking for a Durian treat that has a little more texture? Say hello to Durian Tart. This flaky pastry is filled with rich Durian custard. It has a perfect balance between the buttery crust and the creamy filling. One of the best things we tried during our taste test, this is a must-try for pastry lovers.
4. Durian Softee Ice Cream: The Cool Treat
On a hot day in Davao, nothing beats a cold treat—and Durian Softee ice cream hit the spot. Imagine the bold taste of Durian swirled into a creamy, soft-serve ice cream. It’s refreshing, smooth, and just the right amount of Durian without being overpowering. Even if you’re not a big fan of the fruit, this dessert is worth a try.
Taste Test Verdict: Cool, creamy, and refreshing—perfect for hot days. We give it a 10/10 for its flavor and refreshing quality.
5. Durian Pastillas: Sweet and Mellow
If you like something soft and mellow, Durian pastillas is the treat for you. Made with milk and sugar, these candies are softer and have a milder Durian flavor compared to other sweets. They’re perfect for those who want to enjoy a gentle, creamy treat with just a hint of Durian.
Taste Test Verdict: Soft, sweet, and perfect for those who like milder flavors. We rate it an 8/10 for flavor and smoothness.
6. Durian Shake: The Ultimate Refresher
Thirsty after all those sweets? Durian Shake is here to save the day. Blended with ice and milk, this refreshing drink delivers the bold flavor of Durian in a creamy, smooth form. In addition, it’s perfect for cooling off after a day of exploring Davao’s markets. We loved how balanced it was—rich, but not too heavy, and refreshing enough to quench your thirst.
7. Durian Pie: The Bold Dessert
Saving the boldest for last, we tried Durian pie—a sweet, baked treat that brings the rich, creamy flavor of Durian to a buttery pie crust. This dessert isn’t for the faint of heart, as the Durian flavor is bold and upfront, but if you love Durian, this pie will be your new favorite. The contrast between the rich filling and the flaky crust is a perfect combination.
Which Durian Delicacy Is Right for You?
After tasting all these Durian delicacies, one thing’s for sure—there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a hardcore Durian fan or just dipping your toes into the world of Durian delicacies, you’re bound to find a treat that hits the spot. So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to start your own Durian taste test! Visit Apo ni Lola, where you can find the best durian treats in Davao.