Durian season is here again. The hot and dry mid-year is probably one of the best times of the year for durian lovers to indulge in the thorny fruit. They can have their fill of the creamy sweet flesh on its own or use it in desserts. Professional chefs have created various items using durian - from ice cream and mooncakes to puffs, rolls and ice kacang. You too can make your own homemade sweet treats. Check out these three simple durian dessert recipes.

The popular D24 and kampong durians were used for these desserts. However, you can use any durians of your choice (For a list of the different durians and their unique features, read our story here).

The combination of whipping cream and durian flesh for the crepes and puffs makes the filling irresistibly smooth and luscious.

Durian mousse crepes
Serves 4

Durian mousse
Ingredients:
2 cups durian flesh, blended
1 cup whipping cream

Method:
1. In a chilled mixing bowl, use an electric beater to whisk the whipping cream until it begins to hold its shape and form soft peaks. To chill the mixing bowl, place the bowl in the fridge for 30 minutes. The cream will hold its shape better when the temperature is cold.

2. Fold the whipped cream into the durian flesh and set aside in the refrigerator.

Crepes
Ingredients:
125 g plain flour
pinch of salt
1 tsp sugar
1 egg, lightly beaten
250 ml milk
50 ml water
2 tbsp melted butter          

Method;
1. Sift flour, salt and sugar into a bowl and make a well in the centre.

2. Mix the egg and milk with water and slowly pour into the well, whisking continuously to incorporate the flour until a smooth batter is formed. Stir in 1 tbsp melted butter. Cover bowl with cling film and chill for 20 minutes.

3. Heat a non-stick frying pan with remaining butter. Pour in enough batter to coat the base of the pan in a thin layer. Cook over medium heat for about 1 minute or until the edges turn slightly brown. Flip the crepe and cook on the other side for 1 minute or until golden brown. Remove from heat. Repeat with the rest of the batter.

Serve the crepe with a dollop of durian mousse on the side. Or spread a tablespoonful of mousse on the crepe and roll up it up. Repeat with the rest of the batter and durian mousse. Dust with icing sugar and garnish with strawberries.


Check out these durian recipes as well:
Sticky rice with durian and coconut milk
Durian puffs

Like this recipe? Here's more:
Simple recipes to impress mom

More durian stories
Divine durian: An introduction to the different types of durian
Guide to buying durian