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Courtney Harris

Plant-based Peanut and Banana Torte Recipe from California Grill

Cooking Up the Magic at Home By August 3, 2023 No Comments

Some of the favorite plant-based dishes at Walt Disney World Resort are desserts! Today, we’re sharing the recipe for the Plant-based Peanut and Banana Torte from California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort.

This decadent dessert features a shortbread crust made with gluten-free flour, peanut butter filling, and a delicious white chocolate glaze. The torte is served with blackberry-banana sauce, miso caramel, peanut crumble, and caramelized bananas. You can enjoy this as a dessert the day you make it and as breakfast the next morning with a cup of coffee.

If you’re interested in more plant-based delights like this one from Walt Disney World Resort, check out the new plant-based guide to uncover all of the bites and sips available to try on your next visit!

Even though this dish has quite a few components, it’s easy to make – don’t worry. Just give yourself plenty of time to let the different layers harden. To save some time, make the miso caramel, peanut crumble, and blackberry-banana sauce while the peanut butter filling is chilling.

Are you ready to cook up some more plant-based magic at home? Visit the collection of recipes made without animal meat, dairy, eggs, or honey at our guide to plant-based dining. And be sure to download this tasty plant-based recipe here.

PLANT-BASED PEANUT AND BANANA TORTE
California Grill
Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Serves 12

SHORTBREAD CRUST

2/3 cup coconut oil

2 cups almond flour

2/3 cup gluten-free flour

1/4 cup maple syrup

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

PEANUT BUTTER FILLING

3 cups creamy peanut butter

3/4 cup coconut oil

3/4 cup maple syrup

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

WHITE CHOCOLATE GLAZE

16 ounces plant-based white chocolate, chopped

1/2 cup canned coconut milk

1/4 cup coconut oil

BLACKBERRY-BANANA SAUCE

1 1/2 cup fresh blackberries

2 ripe bananas

1/3 cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar, divided

3/4 teaspoons pectin

1/8 teaspoon salt

MISO CARAMEL

1 cup sugar

1/4 cup corn syrup

1/3 cup water

1/2 cup canned coconut milk

1 1/2 teaspoons miso paste

PEANUT CRUMBLE

1/2 cup chopped peanuts

1 1/4 cups almond flour

1/2 cup softened coconut oil

1/3 cup agave syrup

1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda

CARAMELIZED BANANAS

3 bananas

1/4 cup sugar

TOPPING

Flaked sea salt, to taste

24 fresh blackberries

FOR SHORTBREAD CRUST:

  1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
  2. Melt coconut oil in microwave-safe bowl at 50% power for 30-45 seconds.
  3. Combine melted coconut oil, almond flour, gluten-free flour, maple syrup, and vanilla extract in large bowl. Stir to combine.
  4. Firmly press into 8×8-inch baking dish. Bake for 13-15 minutes, until golden brown.
  5. Cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes.

FOR PEANUT BUTTER FILLING:

  1. Melt peanut butter and coconut oil in large microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds, until smooth.
  2. Add maple syrup and vanilla extract. Stir until combined. Pour on top of cooled shortbread crust.
  3. Freeze for 4 hours to set.

FOR WHITE CHOCOLATE GLAZE:

  1. Melt chopped white chocolate in a large microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds, until melted.
  2. Combine coconut milk and coconut oil in a small saucepan. Heat over medium-low heat until hot. Pour into melted white chocolate and stir until smooth.
  3. Pour on top of shortbread and peanut butter filling, making sure to evenly cover the top.
  4. Freeze until ready to serve.

FOR BLACKBERRY-BANANA SAUCE:

  1. Place blackberries in food processor or blender and purée until smooth. If desired, strain blackberries with a mesh strainer to remove seeds. Place in a small saucepan.
  2. Purée bananas and add to blackberries. Stir in 1/3 cup sugar. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
  3. Once purée is boiling, combine pectin and remaining 2 tablespoons sugar in a small bowl. Sprinkle over top of blackberry-banana sauce and stir constantly for 30 seconds. Remove from heat and stir in salt.
  4. Cool at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.

FOR MISO CARAMEL:

  1. Combine sugar, corn syrup, and water in small saucepan. Cook over medium-high heat until boiling. Cook, undisturbed for 10-12 minutes until dark amber in color.
  2. Remove from heat and slowly stir in coconut milk. Stir until smooth.
  3. Add miso and set aside until ready to serve.

FOR PEANUT CRUMBLE:

  1. Preheat oven to 275°F.
  2. Mix chopped peanuts, almond flour, coconut oil, agave syrup, and baking soda in a medium bowl until crumbs form.
  3. Spread on ungreased baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes, stirring after 5 minutes, until golden brown.
  4. Set aside until ready to serve.

FOR CARAMELIZED BANANA:

  1. Slice each banana into 1/2-inch thick circles for a total of 24 slices. Place sugar in a small bowl.
  2. Dip top of each banana slice in sugar. Use a cooking torch to melt sugar on each slice until melted and browned. Banana slices can also be broiled on top rack of oven for 1-2 minutes.
  3. Cool completely before serving, but do not refrigerate.

TO SERVE:

  1. Remove torte from freezer. Cut into 12 rectangles, each one approximately 4 inches long and 1 1/4 inches wide.
  2. Smear 1-2 tablespoons blackberry banana sauce in the center of each plate. Top with peanut banana torte.
  3. Spoon 1 tablespoon caramel around the plate and sprinkle desired amount of crumble around plate.
  4. Place 2 caramelized bananas and fresh blackberries on each plate. Sprinkle flaked sea salt on top of torte.

Always use caution when handling sharp objects and hot contents. 

Please supervise children who are helping or nearby.

This recipe has been converted from a larger quantity in the restaurant kitchens. 

The flavor profile may vary from the restaurant’s version. 

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2023 Disneyland Resort Holiday Season Dates and Details Revealed

Special Events By August 2, 2023 No Comments

The Holidays at the Disneyland Resort are returning Nov. 10, 2023, through Jan. 7, 2024! We can’t wait for you and your loved ones to create special memories and treasured traditions with new and returning holiday offerings around the resort. Ring in the season with some favorite festivities, like tasting your way through the Disney Festival of Holidays marketplaces, watching dazzling projections and fireworks illuminate Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle and snapping a photo with Mickey Mouse in his all-new holiday outfit in Disneyland park!

Here are the details about the celebrations, décor, entertainment and more that will be featured this holiday season.

“Mickey’s Happy Holidays”
Experience Cultural Celebrations in Disney California Adventure Park with Disney Festival of Holidays

A distinctly Disney holiday celebration with diverse food, live entertainment and more, Disney Festival of Holidays draws inspiration from multicultural seasonal celebrations and cherished traditions of Christmas, Navidad, Diwali, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and Three Kings Day. You can enjoy some new and returning favorite food and beverage items at the Disney Festival of Holidays marketplaces and groove to music and dance performances at the Palisades Stage, Sonoma Terrace and for the first time, in the Hollywood Backlot, where Disney Festival of Holidays will also be celebrated. Also, get ready to dance along as Disney and Pixar characters march to the beat of the Holiday Toy Drummers in “Mickey’s Happy Holidays.”

Festivalgoers may choose to purchase a Sip and Savor Pass, which offers eight entitlement tabs that can be redeemed for select food and nonalcoholic beverages from several marketplaces and participating dining locations in Disney California Adventure.* Each Sip and Savor Pass is valid for the entirety of Disney Festival of Holidays and can be shared among friends and family, so the whole group can sample delicious dishes together this season.

Disney ¡Viva Navidad! will return to Paradise Gardens Park for its tenth season, and this year, you can taste your way through an all-new menu at Paradise Garden Grill. Watch the Three Caballeros as they host a joyous street party, featuring Mexican folklórico dancers and mariachis, Brazilian samba dancers and percussionists, giant mojiganga puppets and Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse in their holiday best. Additional festivities in this area will include live music and dancing, visits with beloved Disney characters and special appearances by Mirabel from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Encanto.”

“it’s a small world” Holiday
Enjoy Festive Décor and Transformed Attractions Throughout Disneyland Resort

There’s no better place to enjoy wintertime decorations and twinkling lights than The Merriest Place on Earth! Throughout Disneyland Resort, you can gaze at spectacular holiday décor including Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle, adorned with icicles and snow-capped turrets; a gingerbread house inspired by sweet treats and pastries at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa; and Christmas trees with uniquely themed ornaments in both theme parks, the Downtown Disney District, Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa and Disneyland Hotel. And with a bit of Disney magic, “snow” is scheduled to fall every night in select areas of Disneyland park!

Ornaments, lights and more will also embellish favorite attractions that get a special holiday overlay. In Disneyland, you’ll be serenaded with choruses of jolly tunes on the wintry waterway of “it’s a small world” Holiday, and Jack Skellington from “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas” redecorates the Haunted Mansion, transforming it into the frightfully festive Haunted Mansion Holiday, complete with a new, hauntingly delightful gingerbread house. Gear up for some cheer in Disney California Adventure on Luigi’s Joy to the Whirl and Mater’s Jingle Jamboree, which will both undergo seasonal spins for the “haul-idays.”

Delight in Seasonal Spectaculars and Holiday Entertainment

A photo with Disney characters becomes even more merry, as Mickey Mouse and some of his friends will be wearing all-new outfits in Disneyland park, putting a spin on the classic red and green with midcentury modern-inspired looks! Plus, the whole family can visit with Santa Claus, who will pose for jolly photos around Disneyland Resort through Dec. 24.

And of course, the holiday season isn’t complete without enjoying some merry entertainment. At Disneyland park, “A Christmas Fantasy Parade” will spread cheer, starring characters from Disney Animation’s “Frozen,” Disney and Pixar’s “Toy Story” and many more. In the evenings, you can watch as the “Believe…In Holiday Magic” nighttime spectacular illuminates the night sky with breathtaking fireworks and sprinklings of snow. And for guests who want to add even more holiday magic to their trip, the Holiday Time at the Disneyland Resort Guided Tour will offer a hosted experience of select seasonal offerings and reserved viewing for “A Christmas Fantasy Parade.”**

“World of Color – Season of Light”

At Disney California Adventure park, “World of Color – Season of Light” will fill Paradise Bay with the spirit of togetherness and love as hundreds of fountains illustrate warm moments from Disney animated films.

In addition to holiday shopping and dining in the Downtown Disney District, you can groove to a variety of “mistle-toe-tapping” live musical performances on select evenings at the Downtown Disney LIVE! stage. At Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa and Disneyland Hotel, you can enjoy a wonderfully cozy atmosphere, enhanced with live entertainment some nights.

We are counting down the days until Holidays at the Disneyland Resort begins! What are you most looking forward to this season?

Entertainment, experiences, and offerings may be modified, limited in availability or unavailable, and are subject to restrictions, and change or cancellation without notice. Both valid Theme Park reservation and admission for the same Park on the same day are required for Park entry. Park reservations are limited, subject to availability and not guaranteed. Park admission and offerings are not guaranteed. Visit Disneyland.com/updates for important information to know before visiting the Disneyland Resort.

*An event Sip and Savor Pass will expire on the stated date and will not be valid at any other event or at any other time. Passes are nonrefundable, subject to restrictions, and not valid for Theme Park admission. Other restrictions apply. Both valid theme park admission and park reservation required for park entry.

**Separate fee and tour reservation required. Additionally, both valid theme park admission and park reservation required for park entry. Cancellation fee and other restrictions may apply. Subject to availability, and change or cancellation without notice.

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New Ghoulishly Delightful Ways to Celebrate ‘Haunted Mansion’ Film at Disney Parks

Special Events By July 28, 2023 No Comments

Welcome, Foolish Mortals… to the release of the new “Haunted Mansion” film, now playing only in theaters!

Inspired by the classic theme park attraction, “Haunted Mansion” is about a woman and her son who enlist a motley crew of so-called spiritual experts to help rid their home of supernatural squatters. Keep your eyes peeled for many easter eggs and nods to the Haunted Mansion attractions that made it into this film!

There’s no better place to celebrate the release of this film than at Disney Theme Parks, and we’re materializing frightfully fun ways to experience “Haunted Mansion” for a limited time.

Hatbox Ghost Coming to Walt Disney World Resort
Hatbox Ghost image

Later this year at the Walt Disney World Resort, one of our most iconic specters will set up residence in the Haunted Mansion of Liberty Square in Magic Kingdom Park. The Hatbox Ghost will appear to guests as they pass the Endless Hallway, welcoming himself inside from the swinging wake in the cemetery and grinning at the Doom Buggies as they set off deeper into the mansion. Guests will soon see temporary barriers materialize as we await his apparition.

“Haunted Mansion” Costume Display at Disneyland Resort

For a limited time, guests visiting Disneyland Park can visit the Opera House inside The Disneyland Story presenting Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln to see a collection of concept art, props and costumes from the “Haunted Mansion,” including the ornate dress worn by Madame Leota (played by Jamie Lee Curtis) in the film.

And for guests visiting Walt Disney World Resort, stay tuned for a similar display of props and costumes coming to Walt Disney Presents Theater at Disney’s Hollywood Studios park very soon!

“Haunted Mansion” Inspired Treats at Disney Parks
Disneyland Park

Look alive! We’re cooking up concoctions inspired by “Haunted Mansion” that are sure to thrill your taste buds!

Haunted Mansion Inspired Pre-Fixe Menu available at Café Orleans featuring the Vanilla Mousse and Seafood Boil
Haunted Mansion Inspired Pre-Fixe Menu available at Café Orleans featuring the Vanilla Mousse and Seafood Boil

🕯️Haunted Mansion Inspired Pre-Fixe Menu available at Café Orleans featuring the Vanilla Mousse and Seafood Boil

April-December Churro at the New Orleans Square Churro Cart: Strawberry-flavored sugar with fresh strawberries, purple cherry sugar, freeze-dried strawberries, and donut icing drizzle

🕸️April-December Churro at the New Orleans Square Churro Cart: Strawberry-flavored sugar with fresh strawberries, purple cherry sugar, freeze-dried strawberries, and donut icing drizzle

Constance Concoction at Harbour Galley: Potato and leek soup topped with pea flower crème fraiche, herb oil, and fried leeks served in a sourdough bread bowl

🦇Constance Concoction at Harbour Galley: Potato and leek soup topped with pea flower crème fraiche, herb oil, and fried leeks served in a sourdough bread bowl

Crystal Ball Cereal Treat at Candy Palace and Candy Kitchen: Cereal treat in black-colored dark chocolate with teal and black M&M'S embellished with a Madame Leota chocolate piece

🔮Madame Leota Cereal Treat at Candy Palace and Candy Kitchen: Crisped rice cereal treat dipped in dark chocolate and decorated with M&M’S milk chocolate candies and Madame Leota chocolate piece #MoviesWithMars (also available at Walt Disney World Resort)

Pickwick Ghost Punch at Royal Street Veranda and Harbour Galley: A Combination of fruit, citrus juices, and sherbet (Non-alcoholic)

👻 Pickwick Ghost Punch at Royal Street Veranda and Harbour Galley‌: A Combination of fruit, citrus juices, and sherbet (Non-alcoholic)

Hatbox Ghost Sipper at select locations in New Orleans Square and Critter Country

🎩 Hatbox Ghost Sipper at select locations in New Orleans Square and Critter Country

Walt Disney World Resort
Collage of Playful Spirits Margarita featuring Patron Silver Tequila with a Fess Parker Big Easy Red Floater and Mickey-shaped Caretakers Beignets dusted with Cookies and Cream Powdered Sugar and a ghoulish Marshmallow Crème drizzle.
Collage of Playful Spirits Margarita featuring Patron Silver Tequila with a Fess Parker Big Easy Red Floater and Mickey-shaped Caretakers Beignets dusted with Cookies and Cream Powdered Sugar and a ghoulish Marshmallow Crème drizzle.

🕯️Playful Spirits Margarita featuring Patron Silver Tequila with a Fess Parker Big Easy Red Floater and Mickey-shaped Caretakers Beignets dusted with Cookies and Cream Powdered Sugar and a ghoulish Marshmallow Crème drizzle. Both can be found inside Scat Cat’s Club at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter.

Peanut Butter and Jelly Push Pop with a Chocolate Tombstone at Sleepy Hallow inside Magic Kingdom Park.

🕸️ Peanut Butter and Jelly Push Pop at Sleepy Hollow inside Magic Kingdom Park.

Happy Haunts Shake at Columbia Harbor House inside Magic Kingdom Park: Blackberry shake topped with purple chocolate-glazed doughnut covered with black sprinkles.

🦇Happy Haunts Shake at Columbia Harbor House inside Magic Kingdom Park: Blackberry shake topped with purple chocolate-glazed doughnut covered with black sprinkles.

Haunted Mansion Portrait Bars at The Ganachery inside Disney Springs: Chocolate Ganache Bars with edible imaged. Bar Flavors: pistachio, salted caramel, chipotle, passion fruit.

👻Haunted Mansion Portrait Bars at The Ganachery inside Disney Springs: Chocolate Ganache Bars with edible image. Bar Flavors: pistachio, salted caramel, chipotle, passion fruit.

“Haunted Mansion” Supernatural Style 
Haunted Mansion shirts

Come and see your new favorite looks inspired by the “Haunted Mansion” that have floated on over to shopDisney and select retail locations at Disney Parks. The Hatbox Ghost Long-Sleeve T-Shirt features the big and bold Hatbox Ghost on the front, with thrilling tie-dye stripes from top to bottom and is a perfect mix of day and night (that way, you will always be covered when the ghosts come out). The Haunted Mansion T-Shirt for Women shows Crump Manor lurking beneath the surface of Gracey Manor. If you look closely, that’s it, closerrr…. there is an eerie red and black tie-dye that will turn heads (upside down).

Haunted Mansion shirts

Foolish Mortals, you didn’t think we would forget about the kids, did you? Madame Leota waits and watches your fashion sense from the front of the Haunted Mansion “Foolish Mortals” T-Shirt for Kids. For this last apparel piece, expect spectators to stare back at you when you wear the Haunted Mansion T-shirt for Kids.

Haunted Mansion mug

With this warm gesture, you will be raising the spirits of those who live in The Haunted Mansion when serving this blood red mug. The design shows a plaque with Master Gracey’s initial (G) set between pictures of Gracey Manor and Crump Manor. For even more thrills, The Haunted Mansion Collection can be found at Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort and on shopDisney. And, don’t forget – beware of hitchhiking ghosts! Blend in and hopefully they won’t follow you home!

Tour de Turtles Madame Leota and Harriet Take to Sea

The Disney Conservation Fund and Disney Cruise Line are each sponsoring a turtle this year in the 16th annual Tour de Turtles “migration marathon,” whose names, Madame Leota and Harriet, are inspired by the live action film “Haunted Mansion.” Through the use of satellite telemetry, Sea Turtle Conservancy will track these two turtles along with others to determine how far and where sea turtles swim during their annual migration. The one to swim the furthest distance wins Tour de Turtles! The data collected during Tour de Turtles helps researchers, conservationists and governing agencies make more informed decisions about sea turtle conservation methods and policies across Florida and our support is just one way we’re bringing Disney Planet Possible to life.

Watch “Haunted Mansion,” Out in Theaters Now

There’s no turning back now! Check out “Haunted Mansion” now playing only in theaters and watch out for any hitchhiking ghosts that may follow you home!

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Foodie Guide to World Princess Week at Disney Parks 2023

Foodie Guide By July 26, 2023 No Comments

Hear ye, hear ye! We cordially invite you to indulge in the many decadent delights at Disney Parks for World Princess Week. This regal celebration is returning from August 20 through 26, and we can’t wait to celebrate the timeless magic and storytelling that has captivated so many generations of fans. To get ready for this year’s festivities, we’ve put together all the princess-inspired treats and eats you can enjoy across Disney Parks all month long.

With a combination of exciting new items, like the Rapunzel Petit Cake at Amorette’s Patisserie, returning favorites, including the Enchanted Rose at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and novelties such as the Mulan Tea Set at Disneyland Resort, there is no shortage of the ways you can commemorate this occasion through your taste buds. There are even some international delights to try.

Gather all your royal companions and your appetite because I am pleased to present to you the Foodie Guide to World Princess Week!

Disney Resort Hotels, World Princess Week food collage

Walt Disney World Resort 

Disney Resort Hotels 

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort and Disney’s Pop Century Resort 

Landscape of Flavors and Everything POP Shopping & Dining (Available Aug. 1 through 31; mobile order available) 

  • How Far I’ll Go Haupia Pie: Rich chocolate-coconut pie with a layer of coconut haupia custard topped with sweet cream and macadamia nut
Disney’s Beach Club Resort 

Beach Club Marketplace (Available Aug. 1 through 31; mobile order available) 

  • Part of Your World Mousse: Blueberry mousse with a lemon curd insert, milk chocolate mousse, and crispy strawberry cobbler crumble with chocolate décor (New) 

Beaches & Cream Soda Shop (Available Aug. 1 through 31) 

  • Ariel Milk Shake: Chocolate chip-mint milkshake with green caramel and a specialty vanilla cupcake (New) 
Disney’s Contemporary Resort 

Contempo Café (Available Aug. 1 through 31; mobile order available) 

  • Cinderella Cupcake: Vanilla cake with vanilla crème custard filling, buttercream, white chocolate slipper, and fondant pumpkin
Disney’s Old Key West Resort and Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa 

Good’s Food to Go and The Artist’s Palette (Available Aug. 1 through 31; mobile order available at The Artist’s Palette only) 

  • Snow White Cupcake: Vanilla cupcake with caramel apple filling, white chocolate-dipped caramel buttercream, and fondant décor
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

Kona Island Coffee Bar (Available Aug. 1 through 31) 

  • Moana Mini Cake: Vanilla Cake, mango mousse, glaçage, buttercream, fondant, and white chocolate décor
Disney Resort Hotels, World Princess Week food collage
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter 

Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory (Currently available; mobile order available) 

  • Wishing on Stars: Mango mousse with coconut-lime gelée, coconut glaze, and décor fit for a princess
Disney’s Riviera Resort 

Topolino’s Terrace – Flavors of the Riviera (Available Aug. 1 through 31 during dinner only)

  • Make It Pink, Make It Blue:  Orange blossom honey mousse transformed by color changing flavors of citrus accompanied with strawberry curd and almond crumble (New) 
Disney’s Yacht Club Resort 

The Market at Ale & Compass (Available Aug. 1 through 31; mobile order available) 

  • Part of Your World Mousse: Blueberry mousse with a lemon curd insert, milk chocolate mousse, and crispy strawberry cobbler crumble with chocolate décor (New) 
Disney Springs 

Amorette’s Patisserie (Available Aug. 1 through 31)

  • Rapunzel Petit Cake: Layers of confetti cake, vanilla mousse, and Italian buttercream (New) 

The Ganachery (Available Aug. 1 through 31)

  • Princess Chocolate Bars with ruby chocolate, pistachios, crisp raspberries, and white crisp pearls (New) 
Disney Springs, World Princess Week food collage

Marketplace Snacks (Available Aug. 1 through 31)

  • Little Mermaid Waffle Sundae: Vanilla soft-serve in a bubble waffle with rock candy, green apple sauce, pineapple wedges, and a chocolate decor

Swirls on the Water (Available Aug. 1 through 31) 

  • Rapunzel Cone: DOLE Whip lemon and DOLE Whip raspberry swirled in a lavender cone with sugar flowers (New) 
Rapunzel Sundae: Shortcake with wild berry soft-serve and DOLE Whip lemon and topped with berry compote and sugar flowers (New), Aurora Cone: DOLE Whip strawberry and blue soft-serve topped with white chocolate crisp pearls in a sugar cone (New)
Magic Kingdom Park 

Storybook Treats (Currently available)

  • Rapunzel Sundae: Shortcake with wild berry soft-serve and DOLE Whip lemon and topped with berry compote and sugar flowers (New) 
  • Aurora Cone: DOLE Whip strawberry and blue soft-serve topped with white chocolate crisp pearls in a sugar cone (New)
Moana Heart of Te Fiti Cupcake: Coconut cake, pineapple custard filling, coconut buttercream, white chocolate 'Heart of Te Fiti,’ and coconut crumble (New) 
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park 

Pizzafari and Restaurantosaurus (Available Aug. 1 through 31; mobile order available)

  • Moana Heart of Te Fiti Cupcake: Coconut cake, pineapple custard filling, coconut buttercream, white chocolate ‘Heart of Te Fiti,’ and coconut crumble (New) 
Disney’s Hollywood Studios Princess Week food collage
Disney’s Hollywood Studios 

Fairfax Fare (Available starting Aug. 1; mobile order available) 

  • Enchanted Rose: Dark chocolate mousse with a taste of blackcurrant and morello cherry-chocolate shortbread cookie, whipped cookies ‘n cream fluff, and gilded chocolate-covered cacao nibs
  • Cup of Enchantment: Cranberry and passion fruit-orange-guava juices topped with yellow shimmer and strawberry boba pearls (Non-alcoholic) (New) 

Hollywood Scoops (Currently available through Aug. 31) 

  • Little Mermaid Milkshake: Vanilla milkshake with mango, guava, and ginger topped with whipped cream and a pineapple-guava seashell cake
EPCOT Princess Week food collage
EPCOT 

Coral Reef Restaurant (Available Aug. 1 through 31) 

  • Bubbles of the Sea: Gold Peak Sweet Green Tea, lemon juice, pineapple, and guava topped with boba pearls and a splash of shimmer (Non-alcoholic) (New) 

Oasis Sweets & Sips (Available Aug. 1 through 31) 

  • Jasmine Cookie: Sugar cookie with apricot jam

Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Drafts & Barbecue (Available Aug. 1 through 31; mobile order available)

  • Tiana Banana Pudding
Disneyland Park World Princess Week food and beverage items collage

Disneyland Resort 

Disneyland Park

Various Locations at Disneyland Park

  • Princess Bubble Sipper available at the following locations while supplies last:
    • Red Rose Taverne
    • Churros near Casey Jr. Circus Train
    • Maurice’s Treats
    • Refreshment Corner
    • Galactic Grill
    • Alien Pizza Planet
    • Main Street Fruit Cart
    • Lemonade near small world Promenade
    • Churros near Town Square
    • Little Red Wagon
    • Small World Churro
    • Churros near Sleeping Beauty Castle
    • Ship to Shore Marketplace

Edelweiss Snacks (Available Friday-Sunday until Aug. 27)

  • Purple Pineapple Shell Macaron: Back by popular demand, this purple macaron is filled with blue pineapple buttercream and a chocolate pearl
Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, Napa Rose, Mulan Tea Set
Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa 

Napa Rose 

  • Disney Princess Breakfast Adventures: Treat your child to an unforgettable 3-course breakfast and enchanting encounters with some favorite Disney Princesses
  • Mulan Tea Set: Whether you partake in the Disney Princess Breakfast Adventures or simply want to create your own Princess adventure at home, your very own Mulan Tea Set is a must! Your tea set will include a tea pot with three cups, a six-pack of macarons, and six Twinings Tea Bags, including the Pure Sencha Green Tea and Golden Tipped English Breakfast Loose Leaf Tea (New) (Available starting Aug. 1 while supplies last)

Advance reservations are highly recommended. Guests can make advance dining reservations online or via the Disneyland app.

Disneyland Paris -Princess Aurora Strawberry Cream Cake to share with your royal friends and The Little Mermaid Milkshake

Disneyland Paris 

Disneyland Park 

Victoria’s Home-Style Restaurant (Available Aug. 20 through 26) 

  • Princess Aurora Strawberry Cream Cake to share with your royal friends
  • The Little Mermaid Milkshake
Hong Kong Disneyland Park, Royal Banquet Hall (Available Aug. 20 through 26), Cinderella Yogurt Blueberry Cheesecake (New)

Hong Kong Disneyland

Hong Kong Disneyland Park 

Royal Banquet Hall (Available Aug. 20 through 26)

  • Cinderella Yogurt Blueberry Cheesecake (New)
Shanghai Disneyland, Royal Banquet Hall interior and treats collage

Shanghai Disney Resort

Shanghai Disneyland

Royal Banquet Hall 

  • Guests will have a chance to meet their favorite Disney characters, including Mickey, Minnie, Donald, and Daisy in their royal costumes while dining in one of the five dining rooms named after different Disney Princesses.
Shanghai Disneyland Hotel

Lumière’s Kitchen

  • This buffet-style restaurant draws inspiration from the Disney animated classic “Beauty and the Beast” for an enchanting dining experience.
Beauty and the Beast Popcorn Bucket

Tokyo Disney Resort 

Available at Select Locations in Tokyo Disneyland

  • Beauty and the Beast Popcorn Bucket

I hope you enjoy the royal festivities all month long! May you and your taste buds enjoy this celebration and the many exciting adventures to be had at Disney Parks.

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First Look at Trail’s End Restaurant and Crockett’s Tavern Reopenings

Foodie Guide By July 25, 2023 No Comments

Over at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, there are two locations that will be opening their doors once again to feed hungry patrons with mouthwatering delights. On July 27, Trail’s End Restaurant and Crockett’s Tavern reopen with refreshing new looks and delicious bites you are definitely going to want to try.

From sleeping under the stars to exploring the woodland trails, Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground reminds us how beautiful it is to experience the magic of the great outdoors together. These new menus at Trail’s End Restaurant and Crockett’s Tavern complement the resort’s signature laid-back style and offer the dining flexibility our guests are looking for, no matter how they plan to enjoy their day at Walt Disney World.

Both dining locations will have a fresh, new look that enhances the resort’s quaint charm and honors its heritage at the heart of the Walt Disney World Resort, with warm wooden furnishings, beamed ceilings, and rustic accents.

Trail’s End Restaurant interior

Now, onto Trail’s End Restaurant. This spot has been reimagined to a quick-service restaurant filled with tasty items to fill your belly. Whether you’re looking for family-sized entrees and sides to bring back to your cabin or campsite, or freshly prepared individual-sized entrees to feast on inside the restaurant’s casual seating area, there are plenty of tasty options to choose from.

Trail’s End Restaurant pizza

The refreshed marketplace concept now includes an on-stage pizza station where you can satisfy your appetite with a slice or the entire pie. There will be two new options available. A smokehouse-style pizza topped with house-smoked brisket, sausage, and pepperoni and a delicious roasted vegetable pie. And yes, classic pepperoni and cheese are still available.

Trail’s End Restaurant Homestyle Meals

In addition to these tasty offerings the Market-style Selections are filled with a variety of items with all the fixin’s to fit your fancy. Before heading back to your campsite, mosey on up to the Hot Grab and Go section where you can pick from the proteins. This area features pecan-smoked whole chicken or brisket, and a rack of pork ribs. And, of course, no trip to Fort Wilderness is complete without fried chicken! Sides will be available by the pound including macaroni & cheese, plant-based cowboy beans, and mashed potatoes.

These aren’t the only bites to be had. You can order classics like cheeseburgers, plant-based vegetable burgers, chicken nuggets, and french fries. For some comfort food, the Homestyle Meals feature cornbread, coleslaw, and mashed potatoes with gravy and your choice of half a slab of barbecued ribs or two pieces of fried chicken. You can also treat yourself to hand-scooped ice cream and specialty coffees, like the Wilderness Latte with flavors of chocolate and hazelnut.

To keep refreshed, there are also a variety of beverages and snacks on the go, like the new Chicken Wrap featuring the new house-made blueberry BBQ sauce or the returning favorite Pioneer Berry Salad.

Trail’s End Restaurant Strawberry Shortcake

The true star of the show is the lineup of new and returning sweets to be featured in the market, a house-made bakery. The pastry team dusted off old favorite recipes from years past like the Banana Pudding, Carrot Cake Cupcake, Blueberry Bread Pudding, and the legendary Strawberry Shortcake from Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue, which will be available in a single serve portion! The plant-based Lemon-Blueberry Trifle is filled with layers of lemon curd, fresh blueberries, and whipped ‘cream.’

Trail’s End Restaurant new desserts

Also new, the pastry team has created some brand-new recipes that are sure to please (and become instant favorites) like the Fort Fruity Cookie featuring fruity cereal and white chocolate chips or the Peanut Butter and Jelly Cupcake. Since no camping trip is complete without roasting marshmallows over the campfire, there will be two sweets inspired by those classic flavors – the S’more Cupcake and the S’mores Cookie.

Crockett’s Tavern interior

Next, let’s head over to Crockett’s Tavern, which has been refreshed as a lounge with expanded seating, both indoors and outside, to give you a beautiful view of Bay Lake. Conveniently located near Trail’s End Restaurant, this guest favorite has been enhanced with a collection of elevated lounge-style snacks to accompany the array of new and returning beverages and specialty cocktails.

Crockett’s Tavern new menu items

This reimagined menu was designed by our talented culinary team with new bites and sips paying tribute to the heritage of the resort and its inspiration from the American frontier. But don’t worry, there will still be a ‘to-go’ window for those looking for a libation or mocktail to enjoy before experiencing the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue!

If you love trying different flavors, then you’re in luck because new to the menu is A Trio of Sliders. This features a pulled pork slider with BBQ sauce and coleslaw, brisket slider with Carolina BBQ and pickled onions, and a buffalo chicken slider with house-made blue cheese dressing and dill pickles served with seasoned french fries.

The new Chicken Bites are going to satisfy you and your taste buds. Pick your favorite sauce among buffalo, garlic-parmesan, or blueberry BBQ. These bites are also served with celery, house-made ranch, blue cheese, and seasoned french fries. Fun fact – the new blueberry BBQ sauce was developed by Chef Julie Hrywnak and the culinary team. The can’t-miss Charcuterie Board addition features a selection of meats and cheeses with house-made bread and butter pickles, tomato jam, cornbread crostini, and sesame lavash.

Crockett’s Tavern new plant-based offerings

Some delicious new plant-based offerings include the Crispy Cauliflower paired with a tasty garlic aïoli. This fan-favorite from the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue plant-based menu is also gluten/wheat friendly! Also be sure to try the plant-based fried green tomato sliders featuring a southern remoulade and citrus greens served with seasoned french fries.

Crockett’s Tavern, the Trailblazin' Dessert Trio

For a sweet finish, the Trailblazin’ Dessert Trio is sure to please. This delightful dish features a s’more with chocolate pudding, graham cracker crumbs, and house-made marshmallow, a strawberry shortcake with strawberries and whipped cream, and a banana pudding with vanilla wafers, whipped cream, and a banana chip.

Crockett’s Tavern moonshine

For those looking for an adult beverage to accompany their meal, Crockett’s Tavern has multiple options to choose from with their heritage cocktail program curated by Guest Experience Managers Hunter Bernreuter and Eric Borgsmiller to pay homage to the resort’s over 50-year history. Inspired by the Fort Wilderness Railroad that once ran throughout the resort, the All Aboard! Moonshine Cocktail Flight is a sampling of our favorite moonshine cocktails featuring the Gullywhumper, Blackberry Lightning, and Spiced Appleberry Shine.

Collage of drinks at Crockett’s Tavern

The Bear-y Buckle combines Uncle Nearest 1884 Small Batch Whiskey, pure cane sugar, lemon juice, bitters, Fever-Tree Ginger Beer, and muddled blackberries for a touch of sweetness in this cocktail. The team is pleased to be serving Uncle Nearest 1884 Small Batch Whiskey, which honors the world’s first-known African American master distiller, Nearest Green.

If you’ve ever wanted to try America’s first spirit, Laird’s Applejack Brandy, then the Camper’s Coupe is for you. This sip features Laird’s Applejack Brandy, orange and lemon juices, and a hint of maple syrup.

Those who prefer bright and refreshing flavors will love the Meadows Cup. Settle in and enjoy this twist on a classic cocktail with Pimm’s No. 1 Liqueur Cup, Hendrick’s Gin, Minute Maid Premium Lemonade, and strawberry.

Any old fashioned fans out there? Our barkeep will be serving up a rotating selection of old fashioned cocktails to wet your whistle. The summer version will be a Clementine Old Fashioned with Angel’s Envy Bourbon, Hella Cocktail Co. Orange Bitters, and cane syrup garnished with a clementine wheel and Luxardo cherry. This sip is a nod to Clementine Beach at the resort.

Tequila fans will be pleased to try two beverages on the menu. A nod to one of the historic camping loops at Fort Wilderness, the Quail Trail Paloma serves up Teremana Blanco Tequila with Hella Cocktail Co. Smoked Chili Bitters, grapefruit soda, and a chili-lime rim. And, of course, you’ll still be able to enjoy your porch sippin’ favorite – the Moonshine Margarita with Ole Smoky White Lightnin’ Moonshine, Triple Sec Liqueur, sweet-and-sour mix, and lime juice.

I hope you’re ready for all these exciting and delicious updates coming to Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground! There is no limit to the fun, and tasty, adventures to be had at Disney Parks.

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Foodie Guide to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party 2023

Foodie Guide By July 24, 2023 No Comments

It’s time to trick-or-treat yourself because Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is nearly here! Yep, that’s right. Dust off your cobwebs because the Halloween season is nearly upon us. We love this time of year and all the sinister sweets and treats lingering around Disney Parks, especially at this fan-favorite event.

On select nights from August 11 through November 1, venture into Magic Kingdom Park (if you dare) for a night of frightful fun, can’t-miss characters, spelltacular entertainment, and, of course, FOOD! This year, the culinary teams have conjured up 30 specialty treats, and nearly all of them are new. Enjoy devilishly delicious delights exclusive to the party, like the Zombie Fingers and Skull Brownie, as well as treats available all day long, like the Apple Fritter Milk Shake and Tombstone Tart. From the sweet to the savory, and everything in between, this year is filled with plenty of must-try treats for Halloween sure to put a spell on you.

If you’re looking for an extra sweet addition to your evening, the Disney’s Not-So-Spooky Spectacular Dessert Party serves up all-you-care-to-enjoy sweet treats and specialty drinks, as well as private viewing for the nighttime spectacular!

Grab your costume, your sweet tooth, and let the ghoul times roll. Here is the 2023 Foodie Guide to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party!

Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies (Available Aug. 11 through Nov. 1 during regular park hours and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party)

  • Apple Fritter Milkshake: Salted caramel milkshake topped with green apple whipped cream and an apple fritter (Non-alcoholic) (New)

Cheshire Café

  • MMMummy Treat: Flaky pastry filled with chocolate-hazelnut filling and topped with white icing stripes and sugar eyes (New) (Available Aug. 11 through Nov. 1 during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party only)
  • Queen of Hearts Slushy: Frozen cherry slushy drizzled with black cherry purée and topped with whipped cream and a crown-shaped chocolate piece (Non-alcoholic) (New) (Available Aug. 11 through Nov. 1 during regular park hours and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party)
  • Witches Cold Brew: French Vanilla Joffrey’s Coffee Cold Brew topped with pumpkin-spiced foam and Halloween sprinkles (Non-alcoholic) (Available Aug. 11 through Nov. 1 during regular park hours and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party)

Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café (Available Aug. 11 through Nov. 1 during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party only)

  • Terrifyin’ Twice-Spiced Chicken Sandwich: Spicy fried chicken breast dipped in hot honey and topped with pepper jack cheese, jalapeño poppers, and bacon (New)
  • The Snarling Sub: Meatball sub with spicy marinara, pesto and pearl mozzarella “teeth” served on a black roll (new)
  • Zombie Fingers: Almond cookie fingers, Key lime pie white chocolate ganache, salted caramel crisp pearls, and sugar eyes (New)
  • River Stix Elixir: Kiwi lemonade with luster dust (Non-alcoholic) (New)

The Friar’s Nook (Available Aug. 11 through Nov. 1 during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party only)

  • Pain and Panic Brat: Bratwurst, sweet and spicy onion relish, and sriracha mustard (New)
  • Pain and Panic Loaded Tots: Tots topped with sweet and spicy onion relish, sriracha mustard, and crumbled bratwurst (New)
  • Buffalo Chicken Hand Pie with spicy ranch drizzle and blue cheese powder (New)

Golden Oak Outpost

  • Tombstone Tart: Flaky pastry filled with strawberry-jalapeño jam and topped with sprinkles and sugar spiders (New) (Available Aug. 11 through Nov. 1 during regular park hours and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party)
  • Loaded Sweet Potato Fries: Sweet potato fries tossed in cinnamon sugar and topped with marshmallow cream, butterscotch chips, and toffee pieces (New) (Available Aug. 11 through Nov. 1 during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party only)

Liberty Square Market (Available Aug. 11 through Nov. 1 during regular park hours and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party)

  • Black Velvet Whoopie Pie: Black velvet cookie with buttercream and sprinkles topped with a sugar spider (New)

Main Street Bakery

  • Mickey-shaped Cinnamon Roll: Mickey-shaped cinnamon roll topped with orange frosting and sprinkles (Available Aug. 11 through Nov. 1 during regular park hours and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party)
  • Minnie-shaped Pumpkin Cheesecake: Pumpkin cheesecake and pumpkin coffee mousse topped with a white chocolate candy corn bow (New) (Available Aug. 11 through Nov. 1 during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party only)

Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn & Café (Available Aug. 11 through Nov. 1 during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party only)

  • Cajun Burger: Cajun-spiced all-beef patty topped with fried green tomato, Cajun Andouille dip, and Creole remoulade served on a black bun (New)
  • Bucket of Bones: Bone-in piggy wings fried with fresh jalapeños tossed in Coca-Cola Cherry barbecue sauce (New)
  • Candy Corn Milkshake: Sweet corn soft-serve topped with whipped cream and sweet potato corn bread nuggets (Non-alcoholic) (New)

Plaza Ice Cream Parlor

  • Apple Fritter Sundae: Apple fritters topped with choice of ice cream, whipped cream, and sprinkles (New) (Available Aug. 11 through Nov. 1 during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party only)
  • Ice Cream Cookie Sandwich: Cookies topped with sprinkles with choice of ice cream (Available Aug. 11 through Nov. 1 during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party)

Sleepy Hollow (Available Aug. 11 through Nov. 1 during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party only)

  • Char Siu Chicken Wings: Whole chicken wings glazed in char siu and topped with chili threads and garlic (New)
  • Headless Horseman Cupcake: Yellow cupcake topped with cream cheese buttercream, spicy cheese-flavored snacks, and a chocolate piece (New)
  • Cinnamon Funnel Cake: Funnel cake topped with pumpkin ice cream, drizzled with pumpkin spiced caramel, and topped with butterscotch chips (New)
Hades Cone and Tropical Graveyard desserts

Storybook Treats (Available Aug. 11 through Nov. 1 during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party only)

  • Hades Cone: DOLE Whip mango and habanero soft-serve topped with blue raspberry shell and chili-lime seasoning (New)

Sunshine Tree Terrace (Available Aug. 11 through Nov. 1 during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party only)

  • Tropical Graveyard: Mango mousse and sour tropical gelatin topped with cookie crumbles, gummy worm, sprinkles, and a tombstone chocolate piece (New)

Churro Cart near Cinderella Castle

  • Not-So-Poison Apple Churro: Churro rolled in green apple sugar, topped with SNICKERS bar pieces, and drizzled with caramel sauce (New) (Available Aug. 11 through Nov. 1 during regular park hours and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party)
  • Jack Pop: Chocolate fudge brownie with marshmallow filling and topped with a Jack chocolate piece (New) (Available Aug. 11 through Nov. 1 during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party only)
  • Sally Pop: Yellow pop with raspberry filling topped with a Sally chocolate piece
    (New) (Available Aug. 11 through Nov. 1 during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party only)

Outdoor Vending Cart near The Haunted Mansion (Available Aug. 11 through Nov. 1 during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party only)

  • Skull Brownie: Mexican-spiced chocolate brownie with dulce de leche filling and sugar eyes (New)

There you have it – all the ghoulish goodies coming to Magic Kingdom Park for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party and this Halloween season. Prepare to be bewitched with flavor!

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Top 5 Walt Disney World Summer Salad Recipes

Cooking Up the Magic at Home By July 21, 2023 No Comments

Summer is here and salads are the perfect summer dish to beat the heat at Walt Disney World Resort. When it’s hot outside, we crave meals that are simple, fresh, and don’t heat up the kitchen. Today, Disney Eats is sharing five salad recipes from EPCOT, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and the Disney recipe vault!

Jump to Recipe

Once you see these, you’ll be whipping up salads all summer long.

Our Famous Cobb Salad from The Hollywood Brown Derby
Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Our Famous Cobb Salad follows the recipe created by Bob Cobb, owner of the historic Brown Derby in California. It’s the perfect salad for lunch, dinner, or both. The dressing and hard-boiled eggs can be made ahead of time to speed up prep time on a busy evening.

THE HOLLYWOOD BROWN DERBY COBB SALAD
The Hollywood Brown Derby, Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Serves 4 to 6

OLD-FASHIONED FRENCH DRESSING

  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1/4 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground pepper, or to taste
  • 1/8 teaspoon dry English mustard
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

SALAD

  • 1 cup finely chopped iceberg lettuce leaves
  • 1 cup finely chopped chicory leaves
  • 1 cup finely chopped tender sprigs watercress, additional sprigs for garnish
  • 1 pound poached turkey breast, finely chopped
  • 2 medium-size ripe tomatoes, seeded and finely chopped
  • 1 avocado, peeled, seeded, and finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
  • 6 bacon slices, cooked crisp, drained, and crumbled
  • 3 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons snipped fresh chives
  • 1/2 cup Old-fashioned French Dressing
  • Watercress springs, for garnish

FOR DRESSING:

  1. Whisk together water, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Worcestershire
    sauce, salt, garlic, sugar, freshly ground pepper, and dry mustard in
    small bowl until well blended.
  2. Whisking constantly, add the vegetable oil and olive oil in slow steady
    stream until the dressing is emulsified.
  3. Store covered and chilled until ready to serve. Whisk dressing to blend
    just before serving.

FOR SALAD:

  1. Toss iceberg lettuce, chicory, and watercress together and arrange in a
    salad bowl.
  2. In straight and separate lines, arrange turkey, tomatoes, avocado, blue
    cheese, bacon, and eggs on top of greens.
  3. Sprinkle the chives in two diagonal lines across the salad.
  4. To serve, present the salad at the table, toss with the dressing, and place
    on chilled plates with watercress sprigs as garnish.

Click here to download a PDF version of this recipe.

Papaya, Avocado, Grapefruit Salad from Boma – Flavors of Africa
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

Papaya, avocado, and grapefruit are tossed with yogurt and honey to make up this refreshing salad. It’s the perfect side dish for a summer brunch or dinner and makes a deliciously, cool snack on a warm day.

PAPAYA, AVOCADO, GRAPEFRUIT SALAD
Boma – Flavors of Africa, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Serves 4 to 6 as a side

INGREDIENTS

  • 1 small papaya, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 ripe but firm avocado, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 grapefruit, peeled and sectioned
  • 10 mint leaves, cut into thin strips
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons grapefruit juice
  • 1 tablespoon honey

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Combine papaya, avocado, and grapefruit in medium bowl. Stir in mint leaves and set aside.
  2. In a small bowl, stir together yogurt, grapefruit juice, and honey.
  3. Pour the dressing over the fruit and toss gently. Serve immediately.

Click here to download a PDF version of this recipe.

Plant-based Quinoa Salad from Kusafiri Coffee Shop & Bakery
Disney’s Animal Kingdom

This plant-based quinoa salad is a delicious (and filling) recipe from the Disney recipe vault! Since it will keep in the fridge for up to three days, it can easily be made ahead of time and served as a side dish or as a meal. The recipe is simple to double if you need a large salad to share at a party.

PLANT-BASED QUINOA SALAD
Kusafiri Coffee Shop and Bakery, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park
Serves 6

INGREDIENTS

  • 1 cup red quinoa
  • 1/2 cup white quinoa
  • 3 cups water
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup golden raisins
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped dried apricots
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
  • 1 cup chopped cucumber
  • 1/2 cup chopped mint
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Combine water and quinoa in medium saucepan. Bring to boil over high
    heat. Cover and reduce heat to low. Cook for 15 minutes, until liquid is
    absorbed.
  2. Cool quinoa in refrigerator for at least 4 hours.
  3. Place cooled quinoa in large mixing bowl. Add raisins, dried apricots,
    chopped red onion, cucumber, mint, lemon juice, and olive oil and stir to
    combine.
  4. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.

Click here to download a PDF version of this recipe.

Watermelon Salad from the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival
EPCOT

This dish combines sweet watermelon and blueberries mixed with peppery arugula to create a delicious blend of flavors. The white balsamic vinaigrette and pickled onions can be made up to three days in advance to help shorten any last-minute prep time.

WATERMELON SALAD
EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival
Serves 6

BALSAMIC VINAIGRETTE

  • 1/4 cup white balsamic vinegar
  • 3 tablespoons finely diced shallots
  • 2 tablespoons roasted garlic
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • Coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

PICKLED ONIONS

  • 1/2 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
  • 1 1/2 cups water
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 2 tablespoons grenadine syrup
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1/4 pound red onions, sliced into 1/4-inch-thick rings

WATERMELON SALAD

  • 4 cups cubed seedless watermelon
  • 1 cup fresh blueberries
  • 3 cups baby arugula
  • 1/4 cup reserved white balsamic vinaigrette
  • Coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup pickled onion
  • 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

FOR BALSAMIC VINAIGRETTE:

  1. Combine vinegar, shallots, garlic, honey, and lemon juice in a blender.
    Blend until smooth.
  2. With blender running, slowly drizzle in olive oil until mixture thickens.
    Season with salt and pepper.

FOR PICKLED ONIONS:

  1. Purée raspberries in food processor. Pour purée through a fine mesh
    sieve. Discard seeds and set purée aside.
  2. Combine raspberry purée, water, sugar, grenadine, and salt in a medium
    saucepan over medium-high heat. Simmer 5 minutes, stirring to dissolve
    salt and sugar.
  3. Add onions; stir to coat, then remove from heat. Cool for 20 minutes. Use immediately or refrigerate up to 3 days.

FOR WATERMELON SALAD:

  1. Divide watermelon and blueberries among plates. Toss arugula with vinaigrette in a
    medium bowl and lightly season with salt and pepper.
  2. Top each portion of watermelon with arugula. Top each serving with a few slices of pickled onions, then sprinkle with feta. Drizzle with balsamic glaze.

Click here to download a PDF version of this recipe.

Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad from Sunshine Seasons
EPCOT

From Sunshine Seasons, we’ve got another recipe from the Disney recipes vault. Beets, candied pecans, and peppered goat cheese needed for this summer bite can be prepared ahead of time for quick assembly before serving.

ROASTED BEET AND GOAT CHEESE SALAD
Sunshine Seasons, EPCOT
Serves 4

ROASTED BEETS

  • 2 small golden beets
  • 2 small red beets
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • Coarse salt, freshly ground black pepper, to taste

CANDIED PECANS

  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 6 tablespoons sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 1/2 cups pecan halves

PEPPERED GOAT CHEESE

  • 1 (4-ounce) log goat cheese
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

ROASTED BEET AND GOAT CHEESE SALAD

  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1/4 cup sherry vinegar
  • 3/4 cups olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 8 cups mixed salad greens
  • 4 flatbread crackers

FOR ROASTED BEETS:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
  2. Trim the tops and bottoms of beets and wash thoroughly. Coat with vegetable oil, salt, and pepper. Place on a roasting pan, add 1 1/2 cups of water, and bake for about 90 minutes or until beets can easily be pierced with a knife.
  3. When beets are tender, remove from oven, transfer to a bowl and cover with foil. (This will allow the beets to steam and the skin to come off easily.) After beets cool, remove skin and dice; refrigerate.

FOR CANDIED PECANS

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
  2. In a small saucepan over medium heat, blend the water, sugar, vanilla,
    and cinnamon. Bring to a boil and reduce to the consistency of syrup.
  3.  Place the pecans in a glass mixing bowl and pour the hot syrup over the
    pecans; spread on prepared pan and bake for 8 minutes.
  4. Remove from oven and cool.

FOR PEPPERED GOAT CHEESE:

  1. Coat goat cheese with black pepper, then cut into 8 equal pieces.
  2. Refrigerate until ready to assemble salad.

FOR ROASTED BEET AND GOAT CHEESE SALAD:

  1. Combine the honey and vinegar in a small bowl. Whisk until honey is dissolved. Slowly add the oil, whisking continually, until well combined. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
  2. Toss greens with dressing and divide evenly among 4 plates.
  3. Top with reserved beets, candied pecans, and peppered goat cheese. Serve with flatbread crackers.

Click here to download a PDF version of this recipe.

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Disney’s H2O Glow Lights Up Summer Nights at Typhoon Lagoon Through Sept. 2

Special Events By July 19, 2023 No Comments

Summer is off to a bright start at Walt Disney World Resort as Disney H2O Glow After Hours lights up the night at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon. Slide on into an exciting evening featuring your favorite splashing attractions (at night!), a themed menu of delicious sips and eats, a DJ dance party with favorite Disney characters and more. Sprinkle in shorter wait times and you have the perfect way to “glow-up” your vacation.

Take a look at a few of our favorite ways to have a wave of fun during this splashing after-hours event:

Captain Hook and Mr. Smee dancing with a group of children
Dance the Night Away on the DJ Dance Floor

Kick off the after-hours party on the right (or left) foot with a high-energy DJ dance party. Full of lights, music and a few of your favorite Disney characters, this dance party is what brings Disney H2O Glow After Hours to life!

people swimming with inflatable floaties at H2O Glow Nights at Typhoon Lagoon
Glow with the Flow on Splashing Attractions

Whether you’re shooting down Crush N’ Gusher or relaxing through Castaway Creek in our special H2O Glow After Hour tubes, you’ll experience favorite attractions in a whole new “night” light. Plus, with this exclusive after-hours event, the wait times are even lower!

collage of a mickey bar and a mickey ice cream sandwich
Devour Delicious Sips & Eats

What party is complete without delicious sips and eats? Party goers can get to enjoy ice cream novelties, popcorn and select fountain beverages with your after-hours ticket!

Collage of Barbeque Chicken and Waffles, Watermelon Poke Bowl, Pineapple ManGLOW Mai Tai, Moonlight Mudslide

For even more delicious offerings, there’s other themed food & beverage available for purchase only at Disney H2O Glow After Hours. Let your taste buds dive into treats and eats such as the ManGLOW (Mango) Barbeque Chicken and Waffles, Watermelon Poke Bowl, Pineapple ManGLOW (Mango) Mai Tai, Moonlight Mudslide and so much more!

Ready to have a deLIGHTful time? Join Disney on select nights through early September for the glowing party of the summer!

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Pineapple Cupcake Inspired by DOLE Whip Recipe

Cooking Up the Magic at Home By July 17, 2023 No Comments

It’s almost DOLE Whip Day! Last week we shared the Foodie Guide to DOLE Whip Day 2023, filled with treats around Disney Parks and beyond. Today we’re cooking up the magic by sharing a recipe for Pineapple Cupcakes inspired by DOLE Whip from Disney’s Contemporary Resort.

Our chefs created a delicious pineapple mousse-filled cupcake topped with pineapple buttercream and garnished with a cherry. Using yellow and white buttercream gives the cupcakes the look of the classic DOLE Whip swirl. They’re as delicious as they are cute, and the perfect way to celebrate DOLE Whip Day at home.

It’s time to share the recipe! Use your favorite yellow cupcake recipe or box mix for this recipe. If you have leftover pineapple mousse, it tastes great with graham crackers or as a fruit dip. It’s even delicious on its own!

PINEAPPLE CUPCAKES INSPIRED BY DOLE WHIP
Contempo Café, Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Makes 12 Cupcakes

PINEAPPLE MOUSSE

  • 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 1/3 cup whole milk
  • 3 tablespoons pineapple-flavored powdered gelatin

PINEAPPLE BUTTERCREAM

  • 1 tablespoon pineapple juice
  • 3 tablespoons pineapple-flavored powdered gelatin
  • 1/2 cup vegetable shortening
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons whole milk

CUPCAKES

  • 12 vanilla cupcakes, from a favorite recipe or box mix
  • Yellow food coloring
  • Orange food coloring
  • 12 maraschino cherries

FOR PINEAPPLE MOUSSE:

  1. Whip heavy cream in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a whisk attachment until soft peaks form. Set aside.
  2. Heat milk in a small saucepan over medium heat until very hot, but not boiling. Whisk in gelatin and stir until dissolved. Remove from heat and cool for 10 minutes.
  3. Fold gelatin mixture into whipped cream until fully incorporated.
  4. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, up to 2 days.

FOR PINEAPPLE BUTTERCREAM :

  1. Combine pineapple juice and gelatin in small bowl, stirring until gelatin is dissolved. Set aside.
  2. Cream shortening and softened butter in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment until fluffy.
  3. Add gelatin mixture and beat on medium speed until fully incorporated.
  4. Add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, and beat on low speed until fully mixed. Increase to medium speed and beat, scraping side of bowl as needed, until frosting is stiff.
  5. Add milk, one teaspoon at a time, until buttercream is light and fluffy.
  6. Divide buttercream in half and store in two airtight containers until readyto use.

FOR CUPCAKES:

  1. Using a 1-inch cookie cutter or apple corer, cut hole about 2/3 of the way down the center of each cupcake. Fill with reserved pineapple mousse. Using an offset spatula, remove any excess mousse from the top of the cupcake.
  2. Add a few drops of yellow and orange food coloring to one of the reserved pineapple buttercream containers until desired shade of yellow is achieved.
  3. Place white buttercream in a piping bag fitted with a star tip. Spoon yellow buttercream in a second piping bag fitted with a star tip of the same size.
  4. Pipe buttercream on cupcakes, alternating between yellow and white to create a soft-serve swirl look. Top with maraschino cherry.

Always use caution when handling sharp objects and hot contents. Please supervise children who are helping or nearby.
This recipe has been converted from a larger quantity in the restaurant kitchens. The flavor profile may vary from the restaurant’s version.

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Cooking up the Magic: Celebrate National Cherry Day With Riviera Signature Cookie Recipe

Cooking Up the Magic at Home By July 14, 2023 No Comments

July 16 is 🍒National Cherry Day! Cherries are a favorite fruit … and a great dessert ingredients. To celebrate, we’re sharing a delicious Riviera Signature Cookie from Primo Piatto at Disney’s Riviera Resort, which contains dried cherries!

This was my first time testing (and eating) cookies with cherries. I’ve had plenty of cherry pies, cakes, cobblers, and crisps, but never cookies. I was definitely missing out on a great cookie ingredient. Since these cookies use dried cherries, we can enjoy them all year long.

In addition to dried cherries, these cookies are filled with semi-sweet chocolate, oats, molasses, walnuts, and pistachios. The ingredients come together to create a delicious cookie full of amazing flavors and textures. Finishing the cookies with sea salt flakes gives these cookies the perfect balance between salty and sweet.

Now that I’ve talked it up, here’s the recipe. This recipe makes a nice thick, soft cookie. See the cook’s note if you enjoy a thinner, crispier cookie. And don’t forget to download the recipe PDF too!

RIVIERA SIGNATURE COOKIE
Primo Piatto, Disney’s Riviera Resort
Makes 18-24 cookies

INGREDIENTS

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon coarse salt
  • 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 2 1/4 cup oats, ground
  • 3/4 cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips, ground
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
  • 1 1/4 cups brown sugar, packed
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 tablespoon molasses
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup walnuts, finely chopped
  • 1 1/4 cup pistachios, finely chopped
  • 1 1/4 cup dried cherries, finely chopped
  • 1 1/4 cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • Sea salt flakes, to taste

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with a silicone baking mat or
    parchment paper; set aside.
  2. Sift flour, salt, baking soda, and baking powder in a large mixing bowl
    Stir in ground oats and ground chocolate chips; set aside.
  3. Cream butter, both sugars, and molasses in the bowl of an electric mixer
    fitted with a paddle attachment until fluffy.
  4. Add eggs, one at a time, and beat on low speed until fully incorporated.
    Add vanilla and beat, scraping the bowl as needed, for 1 minute.
  5. Add 1/3 of flour mixture and beat on low speed until just mixed. Continue
    with remaining flour. Add walnuts, pistachios, dried cherries, and mini
    chocolate chips and mix on low speed until fully incorporated into dough.
  6. Place six (1/4 cup) balls of dough on baking sheet. Flatten slightly and
    top with desired amount of sea salt flakes.
  7. Bake for 12 minutes. Cool for 2 minutes before moving to wire racks.
  8. Repeat with remaining dough.

Cook’s Note: For a thinner, crispier cookie, preheat oven to 375°F and bake for 7 minutes. Reduce heat to 350° and bake 3 additional minutes.

Always use caution when handling sharp objects and hot contents. Please supervise children who are helping or nearby.
This recipe has been converted from a larger quantity in the restaurant kitchens. The flavor profile may vary from the restaurant’s version.

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