There’s nothing like a good merienda to brighten up your day.
Whether it’s pahinga time from house chores, a coffee break before picking up the kids, or a simple catch-up moment with family — merienda is that little joy every Filipino looks forward to.
Growing up, our afternoons were never complete without something yummy on the table — sometimes sweet, sometimes savory, but always made with love. ❤️ Here are 10 classic Pinoy merienda ideas that never go out of style, with a few modern twists you can try today.
1. Champorado at Tuyo – The Ultimate Comfort Duo
Rainy afternoon? Walang tatalo sa mainit na champorado topped with a little milk — and yes, paired with crispy tuyo! ☔🍫
For a modern twist: try adding dark chocolate or tablea from your favorite local brand. It’s nostalgic and indulgent.
2. Turon – The OG Street Snack
Banana, jackfruit, sugar, and lumpia wrapper — simple ingredients, pero world-class ang lasa! 🍌✨
Want to make it fancy? Drizzle with caramel sauce or sprinkle sesame seeds for a café-style version at home.
3. Ensaymada – Soft, Buttery, and Oh-So-Classic
This sweet, cheesy bread is best enjoyed with coffee or hot chocolate. ☕🧀
You can make it extra special by using salted egg or ube halaya filling — a modern take on a timeless favorite.
4. Ginataang Halo-Halo – Creamy and Comforting
Nothing beats a warm bowl of ginataang bilo-bilo filled with sweet potatoes, saba, and sticky rice balls. 🥥🍠
For a twist: Add sago or langka for extra flavor and texture. Perfect for cozy afternoons or rainy days.
5. Pancit Canton – The Quick Fix
Admit it — we all have that one pancit canton recipe that saves the day when we’re hungry but lazy. 😂
Level it up by adding egg, leftover adobo flakes, or a squeeze of calamansi. Instant merienda, upgraded!
6. Lugaw – Simple But Soulful
Mainit na lugaw with a dash of calamansi and a sprinkle of fried garlic? Heaven! 🥣
To make it extra hearty, top it with tokwa’t baboy or a soft-boiled egg. Perfect for those “pagod pero gutom” afternoons.
7. Banana Cue – Sweet Street Classic
Who else remembers buying this outside the school gate? 🙋♀️
Golden fried bananas coated in caramelized sugar — simple, sweet, and satisfying. Try air-frying your saging na saba for a guilt-free twist!
8. Puto at Kutsinta – The Merienda Duo We All Love
Soft, chewy, and topped with freshly grated niyog — these native kakanin are a merienda must-have.
Want to modernize it? Add cheese or ube flavor for a colorful touch kids will love!
9. Mais con Yelo – The Cool Classic
When it’s too hot outside, this sweet, icy treat with corn, milk, and shaved ice always hits the spot. 🌽❄️
Make it café-style by adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top — guaranteed Instagram-worthy!
10. Pandesal with Palaman – Forever Favorite
Morning or afternoon, pandesal will always have a place in our hearts. 🥖💛
Classic palaman choices: peanut butter, coco jam, or cheese. But if you want to upgrade, try garlic cream cheese or spam and egg for a merienda that feels like a mini-meal.
Mommy’s Note
What I love about these classic merienda treats is how they remind us of simpler times — when happiness was as easy as a warm turon or a bowl of champorado shared with family.
Whether you’re cooking for your kids, your spouse, or just for yourself, these dishes prove that the best kind of comfort food is the one that feels like home.
So, anong merienda ang paborito mo growing up? Share it in the comments. Let’s bring back those sweet, simple memories together. 💛
