Exclusive Durian Ice Skin Mooncakes Land at Tea Da Ye—A Must-Try for Durian Lovers
A beloved Malaysian durian brand has made its debut in Hong Kong’s bustling tea scene, bringing premium durian mooncakes to a wider audience. Starting September 8, “Ma Liu Xuan” durian ice skin mooncakes—featuring the prized Musang King variety—are available at select Tea Da Ye (茶大椰) locations across the city, offering durian enthusiasts an early taste of the Mid-Autumn Festival.
The collaboration marks a strategic partnership between the Malaysian durian specialist and the popular Hong Kong tea chain, known for its coconut-infused beverages. Tea Da Ye’s decision to stock these mooncakes reflects growing consumer demand for premium, authentic Asian flavors beyond traditional seasonal offerings.
What Makes These Mooncakes Stand Out
Ma Liu Xuan’s cat mountain king (Musang King) durian ice skin mooncakes are crafted from tree-ripened fruit sourced directly from Malaysian plantations. The company emphasizes that no artificial flavors are added, allowing the natural richness of the durian to take center stage.
Each mooncake delivers a generous filling of creamy, dense durian pulp encased in a thin, chewy ice skin wrapper. The texture contrasts sharply with traditional baked mooncakes, offering a refreshing, modern twist that has gained a loyal following among younger consumers.
Priced at HK$228 for a box of six pieces, these mooncakes position themselves as a mid-range premium option—competitive with other high-end durian mooncake brands while remaining accessible to everyday shoppers.
Where to Find Them
The mooncakes are available at all Tea Da Ye branches except the Tuen Mun location. Key outlets include:
- Tsim Sha Tsui: Shop S11C&D, Basement, Celebration Plaza, 36-44 Nathan Road (including Chungking Mansions)
- Wan Chai: Shop G02, G/F, Plaza 228, 228 Wan Chai Road
- Sheung Wan: Shop 22, G/F, Fok Sing Court, 378 Queen’s Road Central
- Mong Kok/Jordan: Man Yuen Street
- Wong Tai Sin: Shop LG3, Lower Ground Floor, South Wing, Wong Tai Sin Centre
- San Po Kong: Shop 132, G/F (L1), Mikiki, 638 Prince Edward Road East
- Kwun Tong/Ngau Tau Kok: Shop G17B, G/F, The ANGLE, 98 How Ming Street
- Tsuen Wan: Shop 2020, 2/F, D·PARK, 398 Castle Peak Road
- Tseung Kwan O: Shop 1-130, L1, Tseung Kwan O Plaza
- Tai Koo: Shop 49, 4/F, South Wing, Kornhill Plaza
- Lai Chi Kok: Pacifica Mall
A Growing Trend: Durian’s Rise in Lunar New Year Treats
Durian has long been a divisive fruit—revered by some for its custard-like sweetness and reviled by others for its pungent odor. Yet in recent years, its popularity in mooncakes has soared, particularly among Southeast Asian and Hong Kong consumers who seek bold, unconventional flavors.
Industry analysts note that ice skin mooncakes, which require no baking and are stored chilled, have become a fast-growing segment of the mooncake market. They appeal to younger demographics who prefer lighter, fruitier options over dense lotus seed paste or salted egg yolk varieties.
For durian devotees, this collaboration offers a rare opportunity to enjoy premium Malaysian fruit without traveling abroad. With the Mid-Autumn Festival approaching, the timing could not be more deliberate.
What to Know Before You Buy
Durian mooncakes are best consumed chilled, straight from the refrigerator. The ice skin remains chewy and the filling stays firm yet creamy. Buyers should note that these mooncakes have a shorter shelf life than their baked counterparts due to the fresh fruit content—typically lasting about a week when refrigerated.
For those new to durian, experts recommend starting with a small portion to acclimate to the intense flavor. Pairing with unsweetened green tea can help balance the sweetness.
As Hong Kong’s food scene continues to embrace regional specialties, collaborations like this signal a broader shift toward hyper-local, artisanal ingredients within mainstream retail channels. Whether you are a confirmed durian lover or a curious newcomer, Ma Liu Xuan’s mooncakes present a compelling reason to visit Tea Da Ye this autumn.