Universal Orlando’s holiday treats make you want to holiday like this

Universal Orlando is filled with the holiday spirit. The delicious holiday treats throughout the theme park will make you want to holiday like this.

The holidays are the perfect time to visit Universal Orlando. Throughout the theme park, the holiday spirit is everywhere. From the holiday displays in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter to the gigantic Christmas tree in Universal Studios, everyone seems to embrace the holiday festivities. While the decorations are delightful, the holiday treats are even more enticing.

Holiday treats are the perfect reason to indulge. During the holiday season, dessert is always an option. At Universal Orlando, the holiday desserts are so tempting that you might plan your meals around the sweet treats.

In Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure and Toothsome Chocolate Emporium, special holiday confections tantalize guests with picture perfect looks and delicious aromas. Deciding on just a few treats can be quite a difficult task. Truthfully, getting the entire case could be an option if you are with a group of friends.

Universal Orlando’s holiday treats, red velvet yule log, photo by Cristine Struble

Recently, I had the opportunity to sample many of the scrumptious holiday treats. Overall, these desserts focus on favorite flavors and are presented in a fun way. Whether it is dessert on a stick or shaped like a favorite holiday character, the dessert delights visually as much as it impresses with its taste.

At the event, Chef Robert Martinez, Jr. Executive Sous Chef, Research and Development, Universal Orlando Resort, commented that these holiday desserts are meant to be fun. Whether it is a reindeer inspired cupcake that his daughter loves or a dessert on a stick, these desserts are meant to create holiday smiles and memories.

Looking at the plethora of desserts, a theme seemed to weave its way through all of them. Each dessert seemed to have a hint of nostalgia and holiday memory connection. For example, the Italian rainbow cake reminded Chef Martinez of the New York Italian bakeries he enjoyed growing up. One bite of that cake and I, too, was reminded of New York City shopping trips with my grandmother. When a dessert can capture that flavor and spark a memory, it is definitely a bite to savor.

Holiday desserts at Universal Orlando, photo by Cristine Struble

Although I recommend indulging in a multitude of holiday treats at Universal Orlando, it might not be feasible on a single visit. If you could only choose a handful of treats, you must try the apple strudel on a stick.

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First, who doesn’t love food on a stick? There is nothing more fun. Even more important, this dessert has perfectly flaky pastry. The layers are thin, buttery and a delight to bite into.

Additionally, the apple filling has notes of cinnamon and nutmeg. With plump raisins adding a hint of sweetness, the filling is very satisfying. Even though this dessert can be eaten directly from the stick, I would recommend sitting at a table to enjoy it. Each bite is so good, it should be savored.

Another favorite holiday dessert is the red velvet yule log. The holidays and yule logs go hand in hand. This version offers a rich, decadent red velvet cake. The cream cheese balances the cake in confectionary perfection.

Throughout both Universal parks, there are a myriad of holiday desserts. From classic holiday cookies to cheesecakes to holiday cupcakes, there is a treat that can make your holiday celebration a little sweeter.

Holiday cocktail at Universal Orlando, photo by Cristine Struble

For the adults, a festive cocktail can be a fun pairing for all these desserts. Various restaurants have holiday themed cocktails. Many of the cocktails feature holiday flavors.

The cranberry margarita is a perfect combination of sweet and tart. With a few fresh cranberries and a salted rim, this cocktail will have you singing Feliz Navidad.

For a sweeter, almost dessert like option, the pumkintini is a wonderful after dinner drink. Combining apple cider and pumpkin puree, the cocktail is better than any pumpkin pie. With a hint of cinnamon, you might forget that there’s no “real” snow in Florida during the holidays.

Many other holiday cocktails are available throughout the parks. From non-alcoholic frozen eggnog to Apple Cider Mule, there is a beverage that will make you want to raise a glass in celebration.

While the theme parks are in full holiday mode, Toothsome Chocolate Emporium has joined in the holiday celebration. From holiday macarons to specialty chocolates, these holiday treats are definitely Santa approved.

If you ready to holiday like this, Universal Orlando and its holiday treats are the perfect way to celebrate the season. Don’t worry about the calories from all these delicious desserts. Holiday desserts don’t have any extra calories.

What’s your favorite holiday treats at Universal Orlando? Share a picture with us by tagging #FoodSided.