Krispy Kreme Philippines has teamed up with celebrated Chef Nouel Catis for a one-of-a-kind collaboration to bring the magic of his viral Dubai chocolate creations across the country.
Chef Nouel, whose first name quite literally means Christmas, has risen to fame for turning chocolate into an internet sensation. At an exclusive first-dibs event, I couldn’t help but ask him whether releasing this limited-edition collection during the festive season was intentional. “It is,” the world-renowned dessert expert replied. “It’s the season of giving for us. We want people to have more access to it, and this is the best time to do it.”
Known for redefining chocolate experiences around the globe, Chef Nouel didn’t plan this collaboration in a corporate boardroom. It all began when he received an invitation via a simple “DM” on social media. Ideas flowed quickly, followed by months of refining the Original Creations. The partnership soon felt inevitable. After all, one has made a name turning chocolate into art, while the other has been part of Filipino comfort for years. Together, they’ve created something that feels both nostalgic and new.
“It wasn’t difficult to say yes because I love Krispy Kreme,” Chef Nouel said. “It’s been fun, and I couldn’t ask for any other collaboration, especially with such an international brand. We discovered a lot of new ways of doing things, so we really learned from each other.”
The Krispy Kreme x Chef Nouel Catis — Original Creations lineup brings Chef Nouel’s signature Sna’ap Chocolate hits to doughnuts, featuring the nutty and decadent Dubai Pistachio Kunafa, the sweet and textured Manila Ube Baklava, and the bright, fruity Fukuoka Strawberry Fields. For a drinkable twist, there’s also the Dubai Pistachio Iced Mocha Latte.
Dubai Pistachio Kunafa
I’ve tried a pistachio chocolate doughnut from another brand before, but the flavor didn’t immediately hit, and it only came alive after I reheated it. This one from Krispy Kreme didn’t need that extra effort. One bite in, and you instantly get why it works. Chef Nouel’s viral pistachio creation finds its match in Krispy Kreme’s signature comfort. The flavor feels authentic and luxurious, the kind that makes you pause before your next bite.
Manila Ube Baklava
This one is a bold fusion of heritage and indulgence, filled with nutty ube baklava cream, coated in Belgian chocolate, and finished with a cashew-kataifi mix. My only quibble? The ube flavor takes a bit of a backseat. It’s still a textured and proudly Filipino bite, but I just wish that earthy ube richness came through stronger.
Fukuoka Strawberry Fields
A playful, sweet-tangy treat filled with cheesecake cream and strawberry, layered with strawberry coating, pink chocolate drizzle, and spiced cookie crumbs that evoke a Japanese-inspired dessert escape. I was already thinking about how strawberries can sometimes lean too sour, so it caught me off guard when Chef Nouel addressed it unprompted. He explained that the fruit’s natural tartness balances the sweetness, and he wasn’t wrong. This one’s bright, balanced, and best enjoyed with a cup of unsweetened coffee.
Dubai Pistachio Iced Mocha Latte
The viral pistachio chocolate also found new life in drink form. This latte version blends Belgian chocolate, pistachio sauce, espresso, condensed milk, and creamy milk, topped with sea salt kreme and a pistachio-kataifi mix. I loved how the saltiness of the kreme cuts through all that richness, while the pistachio crunch on top gives it a surprise texture, like a little reset before each sip.
The limited-edition Krispy Kreme x Chef Nouel Catis — Original Creations will be available from November 7 to December 31, 2025 in select Krispy Kreme stores and delivery apps. Each doughnut starts at ₱200, while the Dubai Pistachio Iced Mocha Latte goes for ₱270 (12oz).
Given the premium pricing, it’s fair to wonder if this collection is worth the indulgence. I default to the Original Glazed because, frankly, most limited-edition doughnuts over-promise and under-deliver. But this time, Krispy Kreme demolished my skepticism. This collection, a masterful creation by Chef Nouel, insists you slow down so the delicate layers of flavor and texture can unfold. They’re pricier than your usual pick-me-up, yes, but the investment is fully validated with every single bite. Consider it your beloved favorite taking a luxurious, global tour and returning as a destination itself.
