Because let’s be real—sometimes, “merienda time” is the only thing keeping us sane between meals! LOL!
Merienda Time Made Easy
Merienda is one of those little joys that make the Pinoy day feel complete. A mini break filled with something warm, sweet, or crispy. But between work, school runs, and chores, who has the time to make fresh snacks every day?
That’s where preloaded merienda comes in. With a little planning and storage, you can have a week’s worth of delicious snacks ready — no stress, no rush, and no “Ma, may merienda ba?” moments. 😂
Here are some tried-and-tested Pinoy merienda ideas that you can make in batches, store properly, and enjoy all week long.
1. Toasted Bread Pizza
A fun, easy snack for both kids and adults. Just spread tomato sauce on sliced bread, top with cheese, ham, and bell peppers, then toast or air fry until golden.
Storage tip: Prep everything and store toppings separately in airtight containers. Assemble when ready to eat for a freshly toasted finish.
2. Cheese Pandesal Bites
This one’s perfect for school baon or merienda on the go. Use small pandesal rolls, stuff them with cheese (or ham and cheese!), and bake or air fry until toasty and melty.
Storage tip: Wrap individually in foil and refrigerate. Just reheat in the air fryer for 3 minutes before eating — instant comfort food!
3. Mini Turon Rolls
Turon will forever be a classic. Make it bite-sized for easier prep and portion control (because let’s be honest, you’ll want more than one 😅).
How to prep:
Slice bananas into halves or thirds, add jackfruit, roll in lumpia wrapper, coat lightly in brown sugar, and air fry.
They’ll keep in the freezer uncooked for up to a week. Just pop them in the air fryer whenever merienda cravings hit!
4. Air Fryer Fish Balls
Nothing screams Pinoy merienda like fish balls! Skip the deep-frying and use your air fryer instead.
How to prep:
Arrange frozen fish balls in the air fryer basket and cook at 375°F for 8–10 minutes. Serve with homemade sweet-spicy sauce.
Bonus: You can batch-cook and refrigerate them — just reheat when needed.
5. Kamote Chips (Sweet Potato Chips)
These are a staple in my kitchen — crispy, slightly sweet, and way healthier than store-bought chips!
How to prep:
Peel and thinly slice kamote, toss in a little oil and salt, and air fry until golden and crisp.
Once cool, store in airtight containers and they’ll stay crunchy for up to 5 days.
Mom Tip: Sprinkle a bit of brown sugar or cinnamon if you want that sweet-salty combo!
6. Overnight Milo Oats
Yes, merienda can be healthy and nostalgic! Combine rolled oats, milk, and Milo powder, then refrigerate overnight.
Optional add-ons: sliced bananas, peanut butter, or crushed graham for extra texture.
Perfect for afternoon energy boosts or quick breakfasts on-the-go.
7. Air Fryer Donut Bites
For those days you just need something sweet. Use biscuit dough or ready-mix pancake batter, shape into small balls, and air fry until golden. Toss in cinnamon sugar or glaze with chocolate.
Storage: Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days, then reheat in the air fryer for 2 minutes before eating.
8. Banana Chocolate Spring Rolls
Think of it as the dessert cousin of turon — with melted chocolate inside!
Wrap banana slices and chocolate chips in lumpia wrapper, seal with water, and air fry for 6–8 minutes.
Mom Tip: This one’s a guaranteed hit for kids (and husbands , LOL).
Merienda doesn’t have to be time-consuming or stressful — with a little prep, you can have a variety of ready-to-eat, ready-to-heat snacks the whole family will love.
So this week, preload your fridge with these yummy treats! You’ll save time, avoid stress, and always have something delicious waiting when the craving strikes.
Because life’s better when you have good coffee and great merienda, right?
