The Philippines, a country known for its vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and mouth-watering cuisine. Among the many sweet treats that the Philippines has to offer, ice cream is one of the most beloved desserts in the country. With its hot and humid climate, Filipinos have developed a strong affinity for this cold and creamy delight. From classic flavors to unique and innovative twists, the Philippines is home to a diverse and exciting range of ice cream brands that cater to every palate and preference.
A Brief History of Ice Cream in the Philippines
Before we dive into the best ice cream brands in the Philippines, let’s take a brief look at how ice cream became an integral part of Filipino culture. Ice cream was first introduced to the Philippines during the American colonial period, when American settlers brought their love for ice cream to the country. Initially, ice cream was a luxury reserved for the elite, but as the technology for mass-producing ice cream improved, it became more accessible to the general population.
During the post-war era, ice cream parlors began to sprout up in major cities, offering unique and exotic flavors that catered to the Filipino palate. The 1980s saw the rise of local ice cream brands, which offered more affordable and accessible options for the masses. Today, the Philippines is home to a thriving ice cream industry, with a wide range of local and international brands that cater to every taste and preference.
Local Ice Cream Brands in the Philippines
When it comes to local ice cream brands, the Philippines has a rich and diverse selection to choose from. Here are some of the most popular and beloved local ice cream brands in the country:
<h3SearchTree Philippines
SearchTree Philippines is a homegrown brand that has been a staple in many Filipino households for decades. Founded in 1985, SearchTree Philippines offers a wide range of unique and exotic flavors, including ube, langka, and buko. Their ice cream is known for its creamy texture and rich flavors, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Arce Dairy Ice Cream
Arce Dairy Ice Cream is another beloved local brand that has been around since the 1960s. Founded by the Arce family, this ice cream brand is known for its high-quality dairy products and unique flavors, such as their signature “ube halaya” and “kakanin” flavors. Arce Dairy Ice Cream is available in many supermarkets and grocery stores across the country.
Selecta
Selecta is one of the most iconic and beloved ice cream brands in the Philippines. Founded in 1990, Selecta offers a wide range of ice cream flavors, including classic favorites like vanilla and chocolate, as well as unique flavors like ube and langka. Their ice cream is known for its creamy texture and affordable price point, making it a favorite among many Filipinos.
Magnolia
Magnolia is a well-known ice cream brand in the Philippines that has been around since the 1970s. Founded by the San Miguel Corporation, Magnolia offers a wide range of ice cream flavors, including classic favorites like vanilla and chocolate, as well as unique flavors like ube and buko. Their ice cream is known for its high-quality ingredients and affordable price point, making it a favorite among many Filipinos.
International Ice Cream Brands in the Philippines
In addition to local ice cream brands, the Philippines is also home to a wide range of international ice cream brands that cater to the country’s diverse palate. Here are some of the most popular international ice cream brands in the Philippines:
Häagen-Dazs
Häagen-Dazs is a premium ice cream brand that originated in the United States. Known for its high-quality ingredients and unique flavors, Häagen-Dazs is a popular choice among ice cream lovers in the Philippines. With a wide range of flavors to choose from, including classic favorites like vanilla and chocolate, as well as unique flavors like matcha and strawberry, Häagen-Dazs is a must-try for any ice cream enthusiast.
Ben & Jerry’s
Ben & Jerry’s is a popular international ice cream brand that is known for its unique and quirky flavors. Founded in the United States, Ben & Jerry’s offers a wide range of flavors, including classic favorites like Chunky Monkey and Phish Food, as well as unique flavors like Matcha Cookie and Coffee Coffee Buzz Buzz. With its strong commitment to social and environmental causes, Ben & Jerry’s is a favorite among many ice cream lovers in the Philippines.
Baskin-Robbins
Baskin-Robbins is a global ice cream brand that is known for its wide range of flavors and high-quality ingredients. With over 1,300 locations worldwide, Baskin-Robbins is one of the most recognized ice cream brands globally. In the Philippines, Baskin-Robbins offers a wide range of flavors, including classic favorites like Vanilla and Chocolate, as well as unique flavors like Mango and Ube.
Craft Ice Cream Brands in the Philippines
In recent years, the Philippines has seen a surge in craft ice cream brands that offer unique and innovative flavors. Here are some of the most popular craft ice cream brands in the Philippines:
The Creamery
The Creamery is a popular craft ice cream brand in the Philippines that offers unique and innovative flavors. Founded in 2013, The Creamery is known for its high-quality ingredients and unique flavors, such as its signature “ube halaya” and “kakigori” flavors.
Creambell
Creambell is another popular craft ice cream brand in the Philippines that offers unique and innovative flavors. Founded in 2015, Creambell is known for its high-quality ingredients and unique flavors, such as its signature “matcha” and ” strawberry balsamic” flavors.
Dirty Larsen
Dirty Larsen is a popular craft ice cream brand in the Philippines that offers unique and innovative flavors. Founded in 2017, Dirty Larsen is known for its high-quality ingredients and unique flavors, such as its signature “ube” and “langka” flavors.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Philippines is a haven for ice cream lovers, with a wide range of local and international brands that cater to every palate and preference. From classic flavors to unique and innovative twists, the Philippines offers a diverse and exciting range of ice cream brands that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether you’re a fan of local brands like SearchTree and Selecta, or international brands like Häagen-Dazs and Ben & Jerry’s, or craft brands like The Creamery and Creambell, there’s an ice cream brand in the Philippines that’s sure to make your taste buds happy. So go ahead, indulge in a scoop (or two!) and experience the sweetest scoop in the Philippines!
What makes Filipino ice cream unique?
Filipino ice cream, also known as “dirty ice cream,” has a distinct flavor profile that sets it apart from its international counterparts. It is often made with locally sourced ingredients such as coconut milk, ube, and langka, which give it a unique taste and texture. Filipino ice cream also tends to be denser and creamier than other types of ice cream.
The unique flavor profile of Filipino ice cream is a result of the country’s cultural heritage and historical influences. The use of coconut milk, for example, is a nod to the country’s tropical climate and abundant supply of coconuts. The incorporation of local ingredients like ube and langka also reflects the country’s rich agricultural heritage.
What are some popular ice cream flavors in the Philippines?
Some popular ice cream flavors in the Philippines include ube, mango, and langka. These flavors are often combined with other ingredients such as coconut milk, palm sugar, and rice flour to create unique and delicious flavor profiles. Other popular flavors include rocky road, chocolate, and strawberry.
Filipino ice cream brands also offer more unique and exotic flavors such as buko (young coconut), pandan, and keso (carabao milk cheese). These flavors are often inspired by local desserts and snacks, and offer a taste of Filipino culture and tradition.
Are Filipino ice cream brands available internationally?
Some Filipino ice cream brands are available internationally, particularly in areas with large Filipino populations. However, the availability of these brands can be limited, and they may not be as widely distributed as international ice cream brands.
For those who are interested in trying Filipino ice cream but are unable to find it in stores, online shops and marketplaces are a good option. Many Filipino ice cream brands now offer online ordering and international shipping, making it possible for anyone to try these unique and delicious flavors.
What is the best way to store Filipino ice cream?
Filipino ice cream, like any other type of ice cream, requires proper storage to maintain its quality and texture. It is best to store Filipino ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer at a temperature of 0°C or lower. This will help to prevent the growth of bacteria and the formation of ice crystals.
It is also important to note that Filipino ice cream may have a shorter shelf life than other types of ice cream due to its high water content and unique ingredients. As such, it is best to consume Filipino ice cream within a few weeks of opening to ensure optimal flavor and texture.
Can I make Filipino ice cream at home?
Yes, it is possible to make Filipino ice cream at home, although it may require some specialized ingredients and equipment. Filipino ice cream often requires the use of coconut milk, ube halaya, and other local ingredients that may be difficult to find in international markets.
However, with a little creativity and experimentation, it is possible to create delicious and unique Filipino-inspired ice cream flavors at home. There are many recipes available online that use alternative ingredients and creative substitutions to recreate the flavors of Filipino ice cream.
What is the most popular Filipino ice cream brand?
One of the most popular Filipino ice cream brands is Magnolia, which has been a beloved institution in the Philippines for decades. Magnolia offers a wide range of unique and delicious flavors, including ube, langka, and buko.
Magnolia ice cream is known for its creamy texture and rich flavor, which is made possible by the use of high-quality ingredients and traditional manufacturing processes. The brand has become synonymous with Filipino ice cream and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Is Filipino ice cream healthy?
Filipino ice cream, like any other type of ice cream, is a treat that should be consumed in moderation. While it may be made with local and natural ingredients, it is still high in sugar and calories.
However, Filipino ice cream often uses coconut milk and other natural ingredients that may be considered healthier alternatives to traditional dairy and sweeteners. Additionally, many Filipino ice cream brands offer lower-fat and lower-sugar options, making it possible to indulge in this sweet treat without too much guilt.