There’s something undeniably captivating about the way flavors meld together, especially when you step outside the ordinary. Picture this: as you flip a delicate crepe in the skillet, the kitchen fills with a warm, buttery aroma that dances through the air. Now, imagine adding a vibrant, creamy durian filling that’s both luxurious and intriguing.
You might wonder, why durian? This infamous fruit, often dubbed the “king of fruits,” boasts a rich, custard-like quality and a taste that’s surprisingly delightful when paired with a hint of sweetened cream. I first encountered this tropical treasure during a friendly gathering, where curiosity led me to savor its uniqueness. Now, I can’t wait to share these scrumptious Durian Cream Pancakes with you.
Whether you’re a culinary adventurer or simply looking to impress your friends with something different, these crepes promise to be a crowd-pleaser. So, let’s dive into this easy, yet exotic recipe that’s perfect for surprising your taste buds and bringing a little excitement back to your home cooking!

Why are Durian Cream Pancakes worth it?
Indulgent flavor: The combination of rich durian and sweetened cream creates a dessert that tantalizes your taste buds like no other.
Delicate texture: These crepes are feather-light, allowing the creamy filling to shine through in each bite.
Easy to make: With simple steps, you can whip up these gourmet treats without any fuss.
Tropical twist: Bring a taste of the tropics to your breakfast or brunch table, making it feel like a mini-getaway!
Unique presentation: Roll these crepes into elegant shapes, impressing family and friends with your culinary creativity.
For more ways to elevate your meals, be sure to check out other delicious crepe recipes!
Durian Cream Pancakes Ingredients
For the Crepes
• All-purpose flour – a must for creating the perfect base; using high-quality flour makes a difference.
• Tapioca starch – enhances the crepes’ chewiness; feel free to swap with cornstarch if unavailable.
• Salt – a pinch to balance the sweetness; never skip this for true flavor enhancement.
• Eggs – the binding agent that gives the crepes structure; opt for large eggs for best results.
• Milk – use whole milk for creaminess, or substitute with any plant-based version for a dairy-free treat.
• Margarine/butter – melted, for that rich flavor; choose unsalted butter for a more controlled taste.
• Yellow/green food coloring or pandan paste – adds a splash of color; pandan paste enhances the aroma as well.
For the Filling
• Durian – the star of the show, providing a unique and decadent flavor profile; the “king of fruits” indeed!
• Heavy whipping cream – gives the filling a luxurious texture; use cold cream for better whipping results.
• Sweetened condensed milk – sweetens and binds the filling; adjust the amount based on your sweetness preference.
Transform your breakfast into a tropical delight with these Durian Cream Pancakes that promise to impress!
How to Make Durian Cream Pancakes
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Mix the dry ingredients: In a bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/3 cup of tapioca starch, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This forms a solid base for your crepes.
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Whisk in eggs and milk: Add 2 eggs to the dry mixture, then gradually pour in 2 1/2 cups of milk while whisking until the batter is smooth. Aim for a silky texture!
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Incorporate melted margarine: Stir in 1/4 cup of melted margarine or butter and, if using, a few drops of yellow/green food coloring or pandan paste for a vibrant finish.
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Cook the crepes: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour a small amount of batter into the skillet, swirling to cover the bottom evenly. Cook until the edges begin to lift, then flip and let the other side turn golden. Repeat with the remaining batter.
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Prepare the filling: For the Filling: In a separate bowl, combine 1.1 lbs of durian, 1 cup of heavy whipping cream, and 1/4 cup of sweetened condensed milk. Mix until smooth and luscious—a dream come true!
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Assemble the pancakes: Place a crepe on a plate, generously fill it with the durian mixture, and either fold or roll it up as your heart desires.
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Serve: Enjoy your delicious Durian Cream Pancakes immediately, savoring every bite of this tropical delight.
Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a sweet touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Durian Cream Pancakes
• Perfecting the Crepes: Make sure to whisk the batter until smooth to avoid any lumps, which can lead to uneven cooking.
• Heat Control: Cook your crepes on medium heat; too high, and they’ll burn, while too low might leave them soggy.
• Flavoring Flexibility: Feel free to adjust the food coloring or use pandan paste depending on your aesthetic preference—both options are delightful!
• Durian Prep: Choose ripe durian for the best flavor; if it’s your first time using this fruit, start with just a little to gauge your taste.
• Smoothing the Filling: For a luxurious creamy consistency, ensure your heavy whipping cream is cold before whipping and mixing it with the durian.
These tips will help you create perfect Durian Cream Pancakes that are sure to impress!
What to Serve with Durian Cream Pancakes?
Create a beautiful meal experience that’s both exotic and comforting, making every bite a sweet celebration.
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Tropical Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of mango, pineapple, and kiwi brightens up the plate, inviting fresh flavors to harmonize with the durian.
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Coconut Whipped Cream: The light, airy coconut cream adds a delightful twist, enhancing the tropical flair while complementing the creamy filling.
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Chamomile Tea: This gentle, floral tea acts as a soothing counterpart to the rich pancakes, creating a calming brunch experience.
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Sweetened Condensed Milk Drizzle: Elevate your Durian Cream Pancakes even further with a drizzle on top, intensifying sweetness and enriching each bite.
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Pandan Rice Pudding: Its comforting texture and subtle flavor pair beautifully, giving you a satisfying finish while continuing the tropical theme.
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Mango Smoothie: Silky and refreshing, a mango smoothie complements the richness of the pancakes with its tropical sweetness and creamy texture.
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Chocolate Dipping Sauce: For those who love indulgence, a warm chocolate sauce brings a luxurious element, making each bite decadently unforgettable.
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Pineapple Slices: Grilled or fresh, pineapple adds a tangy and juicy component, enhancing the overall flavor profile and offering a refreshing contrast.
Durian Cream Pancakes Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and tailor it to your palate!
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Vegan Option: Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal and use almond or coconut milk for a delightful plant-based version.
A vegan twist can still be indulgently creamy with the right substitutes! -
Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Tapioca starch can remain for that perfect texture.
Embrace gluten-free without sacrificing flavor—your taste buds won’t know the difference! -
Chocolate Drizzle: Add a chocolate ganache or melted dark chocolate as a topping to elevate the dessert further.
Chocolate and durian create a rich harmony, especially for those who love a touch of decadence! -
Fruity Filling: Incorporate diced mango or shredded coconut into the durian filling for added tropical sweetness and texture.
This will add a refreshing burst that balances the creamy richness perfectly! -
Spicy Kick: Add a touch of finely chopped chili or a dash of cayenne pepper to the filling for a surprising heat.
For the adventurous, the right amount of spice amplifies the flavor profile beautifully! -
Nutty Crunch: Fold in crushed nuts such as cashews or almonds into the durian filling for delightful texture.
The crunchiness will contrast with the smooth filling, creating a delightful eating experience! -
Coconut Cream: Use whipped coconut cream instead of heavy cream to infuse a tropical flavor into the filling.
Coconut adds sweetness and pairs perfectly with the richness of the durian! -
Fruit Jam: Spread a layer of fruit jam (like passion fruit or mango) inside the crepe before adding the durian filling for a playful twist.
This adds an unexpected fruity zing that brings a refreshing note to each bite!
Make Ahead Options
These Durian Cream Pancakes are a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you valuable time on busy weekdays! You can prepare the crepe batter and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours; just give it a good whisk before cooking. Additionally, the durian filling can be made in advance and kept in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge, ensuring the flavors meld together beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the crepes as directed and fill them with the luscious durian mixture. This approach guarantees restaurant-quality results without the fuss, allowing you to enjoy tropical delights any day of the week!
How to Store and Freeze Durian Cream Pancakes
Room Temperature: Enjoy your delicious pancakes fresh, but if leftovers remain, they can sit out for up to 2 hours before refrigeration.
Fridge: Store your Durian Cream Pancakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, ensuring they maintain their moistness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual pancakes separated by parchment paper in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat or microwave in 20-30 second intervals until warm, ensuring not to overcook.

Durian Cream Pancakes Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe durian?
Absolutely! When selecting durian, look for fruit that has a strong, sweet aroma, which indicates ripeness. The shell should have a slight give when pressed, and you may see some cracked sections on the exterior. Avoid any with dark spots all over, as this could indicate spoilage.
What is the best way to store leftover Durian Cream Pancakes?
Very! For the best preservation, store your pancakes in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Make sure to let them cool to room temperature before sealing them to prevent condensation, which can make them soggy.
Can I freeze Durian Cream Pancakes?
Of course! To freeze your pancakes, separate them with parchment paper and stack them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
What should I do if my crepes are tearing while cooking?
Oh no! If your crepes are tearing, it may be due to the batter being too thick or the skillet not being properly greased. Ensure your batter is smooth and runny, and use enough melted margarine or butter on the skillet before pouring the batter. Also, allow the crepes to cook long enough for the edges to lift before flipping.
Are there any dietary considerations with durian?
Definitely! If you’re serving these delicious durian-filled crepes to others, keep in mind that durian can cause digestive issues for some people, especially if they are not used to it. As for allergies, always ensure that your guests are not allergic to any of the ingredients used, like eggs or dairy. If in doubt, opt for alternatives like coconut cream for a dairy-free filling!
How can I enhance the flavor of my filling?
You bet! To elevate the flavor of your durian filling, try adding a splash of vanilla extract or a dash of lime juice to brighten it up. You can also mix in a bit of toasted coconut for extra texture and flavor. This will create a more complex and enjoyable taste that complements the creamy durian beautifully!

Durian Cream Pancakes: A Tropical Twist You Can't Resist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/3 cup of tapioca starch, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
- Add 2 eggs to the dry mixture, then gradually pour in 2 1/2 cups of milk while whisking until smooth.
- Stir in 1/4 cup of melted margarine or butter and, if using, yellow/green coloring or pandan paste.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour a small amount of batter into the skillet and cook until golden.
- In a separate bowl, combine 1.1 lbs of durian, 1 cup of heavy whipping cream, and 1/4 cup of sweetened condensed milk.
- Place a crepe on a plate, fill it with the durian mixture, and roll or fold as desired.
- Serve immediately, garnishing with powdered sugar if desired.




