Epcot's Food & Wine Festival Favorites

Food, wine, and a swingin' good time! These are a few of my favorites from this year's Food & Wine lineup, and here's why:

Zesty Cheeseburger and Cheddar Cheese Macaroni Handwich

L'Orange Cotton Candy (Found at Craft Beers)

Both of these items were a fair price and I was pleasantly surprised how big the cotton candy bag was! The Handwich is perfect for one, but the cotton candy can easily be shared amongst 3-4 people.

Eastern Florida Flight (Also found at Craft Beers)

My favorite beer in this flight was the Triple Chocolate Milk Stout, which you can purchase individually in a 6-8 ounce glass!

New England Lobster Roll (Found at Hops & Barley)

If you're a big fan of lobster, then you will think this $8 bite is worth it! The buttered, toasted bun and the sauce are what make this roll amazing, along with the heaping pile of lobster on top-Y U M

Cheese Trio (Found at Cheese Studio)

If you're a fan of flavored cheese (specifically Boursin cheeses) you will definitely enjoy this! I loved the sweet and savory flavors in the profiterole (left) the smoked salmon pinwheel was good, but the crostini was a little hard (middle) and the strawberry macaron was delightful! The pepper cheese on top was a nice balance against the sweetness (right).

Seared Scallops (Found at The Wine & Dine Studio)

This was a delicious dish and is a great dish to get when you want a more savory option that's more on the filling side! 

Crispy Pork Belly (Found at Brazil)

Not gonna lie, I thought the pork belly portion was way too small. The black beans were delicious, but I would probably go to the Canada pavilion and get the Filet instead. 

Spicy Hummus Fries (Found at Morocco)

Even though the portion was really small, I would get these again. I could seriously eat 3 orders of these (in one sitting) they were SO good!

Liquid Nitro Chocolate-Almond Truffle (Found at The Chocolate Studio)

Chocolate mousse, dipped in Liquid Nitrogen.....Frozen outside and soft, silky center.....I promise you won't be able to resist. The salted almond powder and whiskey caramel balance the chocolate flavor perfectly, and if I were you, I wouldn't share!

BaiJoe Punch and Beijing Roasted Duck Bao Bun (Found at China)

BaiJoe punch sure has a "punch" to it.....That vodka floater will have you speaking Chinese soon after you consume this. Once the vodka was mixed it was very refreshing, but then I experienced the Chilled Coffee in Belgium, and I said "Bai Joe" to this baby. The Duck Bao Bun was delicious, and was the perfect portion for one. 

Let's talk about my absolute favorites from the festival.......

I'm working on photos as we speak, but the Canada pavilion has my heart for two reasons:

Canadian Cheddar Cheese Soup served with a Pretzel Roll

"Le Cellier" Wild Mushroom Beef Filet Mignon with Truffle-Butter Sauce

Doesn't that sound amazing?! Both speak for themself with how delicious they are.


And remember that Chilled Coffee drink I mentioned from Belgium? Well, this is what it's called:

Chilled Coffee featuring Godiva Chocolate Liquer

GODIVA. CHOCOLATE. LIQUER. I promise you will want to drink three more, it's that good! The only dangerous part is that it doesn't taste like alcohol, just coffee and Godiva-chocolate-y goodness.

Grab your passport, time to eat and drink around the world! Have fun, and enjoy!

I love the Wizarding World of Harry Potter more than any other lands in Universal; Here's why:

Upon purchasing an annual pass to Universal, I knew I was going to be spending a lot of time in the Wizarding World.

My boyfriend and I are huge fans of the Harry Potter series, so every trip to Universal includes lots of wizard magic. Let's just say we spend 80% of the time in the Wizarding World........We admit it.... We're Potterheads. 

The Wizarding World of Harry potter is so fun because you don't have to know all about the movies to enjoy it, it's very fun for Muggles, Witches, and Wizards alike! After my most recent trip to Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, I wanted to share my love for Harry Potter, and more importantly, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and all of the fun thing it has to offer!

King's Cross Station

This London facade is more than just a pretty backdrop. Scan your park-to-park pass and you're on the next Hogwarts Express to Hogsmeade! Not until you pass through Platform 9 3/4, of course! I love taking the Hogwarts Express because it's an easy way to switch from park to park, you can ride it to and from either park, and it's actually a ride! I'm not gonna spoil all of the details about how magical it is, so you'll just have to go see it yourself ( ;

Gringott's 

Escape From Gringott's is my FAVORITE ride in the Wizarding World (not gonna spill the beans on that one for you either), but I love visiting the goblin inside of the Currency Exchange! You can ask him questions, purchase trinkets, and......the best part.....exchange muggle money for WIZARD DOLLARS! And, Wizard Dollars can be used to pay for items in the Wizarding World! I kept mine as a souvenir, maybe I'll use it to buy a Butterbeer next trip. 

Honeydukes

                   

All of your pastel dreams will come true in this whimsical candy shop. I love taking photos inside of the store, their are so many cute photo-ops to not pass up! But more importantly, the candy is what we're there for. Wizarding candy comes in all forms, but my favorite way to snack while waiting in lines is with a goodie bag from the Self-Serve bar! My favorites are the Strawberry Banana Sour Ropes, Fizzy Wizzies, and Pineapple Cubes, but they feature many more types like infamous Bertie Bott's Every-Flavor Jelly Beans! 

Hogsmeade

Hogsmeade holds a special place in my heart because it was the first land of the Wizarding World installment! The snowy tops of Hogsmeade add magical flair, but so do the singing frogs, and the magical windows (you're gonna want to bring your interactive wands for this). I personally like the attractions in Hogsmeade more, The Dragon Challenge is my absolute favorite!! (Ride the blue dragon for loops, and red for speed). 

Butterbeer, duh! (and Butterbeer Ice Cream)

I am convinced that Butterbeer was created by the Gods, and don't even get me started on the Ice Cream! The frothy marshmallow goodness, the smooth butterscotch flavor, UGH I'm craving one just thinking about it!!!! I have tried recreating it, and I am convinced it just can't be done. So until I can buy Butterbeer in large quantities, I'll be visiting Universal, over and over again, because let's be honest, we go for the Butterbeer. 

The Fire-breathing Dragon (in Diagon Alley)

The fire-breathing Dragon atop Gringotts Bank is an icon is Diagon Alley. The dragon spits fire apprximately every 15 minutes after roaring, Which you can hear from anywhere in Diagon Alley. Get your cameras ready!

The architecture

                                                                               


 I love to sit on a corner of Diagon Alley in the middle of the day, with a Butterbeer in hand, just looking at all the details in the buildings and architecture, I see something new every time! 

If you haven't visited The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, I bet you do now! I hope you all get to visit this magical world real soon! 

Happy blogging, Muggles, Wizards, and Witches alike! 

We tried these funky-flavored marshmallows from Toothsome, and we found the best drink to pair them with!

      

      Toothsome Chocolate Emporium and Savory Feast Kitchen is the newest addition to Universal Orlando's CityWalk. It's vintage steampunk decor brings a unique and whimsical vibe to CityWalk's nightlife. Eating at Toothsome usually requires a reservation, but the quirky gift shop is a must-do if you're strolling around CityWalk. Along with cases upon cases of chocolates and fun-flavored macarons, are souvenirs and treats to awaken your tastebuds. 

      

        
        One thing that caught my eye was the gourmet marshmallows. There are flavors such as Smore's, Bourbon, and Absinthe. Wait. Did I just say Absinthe? Yes. ABSINTHE-FLAVORED MARSHMALLOWS. My boyfriend and I looked at each other, and the next thing we knew, we were at the cash register buying Absinthe Gourmet Marshmallows. These marshmallows are delicious to eat by themselves, but are even more delicious with a spiced hot cocoa.








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Spiced Hot Cocoa with Absinthe Gourmet Marshmallows

2 cans Evaporated Milk

8 oz Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (I like Ghiradelli or Bakers)

1/2 tsp Cardamom spice

1 whole Star Anise

1 pkg Absinthe Marshmallows (or gourmet vanilla marshmallows)

1. Combine the milk, chocolate chips, cardamom, and star anise in a pot on medium heat. Heat until the chocolate is completely melted. 

2. Strain the hot chocolate and pour into mugs. 

3. Top with gourmet marshmallows and enjoy!!!!

My Top 10 Fav WDW desserts

      Every trip Disney inspires a sweet craving. It's hard not to after smelling the Cotton Candy from The Confectionery, or the Caramel from Karmell Kuche in Germany. I've eaten at numerous places in Disney, and they all have amazing desserts, but these are my personal favorites.

      My Top 10 Favorite WDW Desserts

Not in any particular order

1. Nutella Waffle Sandwich- Sleepy Hollow

      

      I can go for a Nutella Waffle sandwich at any time of the day at Magic Kingdom. The stand is right next to the castle, and they offer sweet waffles and funnel cakes. I usually grab one in the morning for breakfast, but I also love to get one while Celebrate the Magic is going on, right before Wishes starts.

                                     

2. Zebra Domes-Animal Kingdom Lodge
                              

      If you have ever stayed at Animal Kingdom Lodge, then you know what the Zebra Dome hype is all about. These zebra-glazed Amarulla mousse treats can be found at Boma and Mara in Jambo House, and you can even order a jumbo one for a special event! 

3. NY Cheesecake-Amorette's Patisserie

                                          Best. Cheesecake. Ever. That's the best way to describe it. I love everything at Amorette's because you really can't go wrong. My second favorite dessert is the Tokyo Bay, but this is all about that delicious, perfectly sweet and creamy, cheesecake. 

4. The Coral Reef Dessert Duo- The Coral Reef

                                 These are the top two desserts on their menu (in my opinion), and they're delicious to share, or enjoy on your own. The J + B Mousse is a black & white mousse (chocolate Jack Daniels and vanilla Baileys) atop an Oreo crust and garnished with a Caramel crisp. But this wouldn't be complete without the Caramel Turtle Cheesecake, it's exactly like it sounds. Cut into this creamy cheesecake and a caramel pecan ganache center will ooze out. And neither one is complete without a grand view of The Living Seas aquarium. 

5. Ice Cream Sandwiches- L'Artisan de Glaces
                                                         
      The Macaron Ice-Cream sandwich and the Brioche Bun Ice-Cream sandwich are both my go-to snack on a hot day in Epcot. 
       If you love macarons, then you'll love this frozen treat. The sandwiches are usually seasonal flavors, but the Strawberries and Creme one is my favorite. Strawberry and Vanilla IceCream is sandwiched with jumbo pink macarons! 
       The Brioche Bun can be enjoyed in any season because your choice of ice-cream and sauce is sandwiched between a sweet Bun and pressed to make a warm on the outside, cold on the inside, delicious snack.

6. Gourmet Chocolates- The Ganachery

                                          I love the new additions to Disney Springs, but this place has a special place in my heart. I did make magic in this apothecary-style shop for half of my program, but I truly think they have the best chocolate ever. Dark, milk, or white chocolate, they have it all. A box of ganache-filled chocolates is the perfect gift for the person who has it all, and some of the 16 flavors change seasonally for delicious chocolate all year long. It's an itty-bitty store right across from The Hangar Bar, but if you're ever in the Springs, grab a chocolate, watch the chocolate-making happen, and repeat (;

7. Jumbo-filled Cupcakes- The Contempo Cafe

                       Pineapple Dole Whip Cupcake              

One of my favorite Disney traditions is taking the boat from Ft. Wilderness to The Contemporary to watch Wishes! We usually swing by the Contempo Cafe before the fireworks start to grab a late night snack. I usually go for one of their Gourmet jumbo cupcakes! These cupcakes are different from the jumbo ones in the parks because these are filled and frosted with delicious seasonal flavors!

      

8. The Cronut- The Refreshment Port
                                 
There are so many delicious snacks at EPCOT it's hard to chose my favorite! But this is one that you can enjoy all year long, and is always served WARM. (Insert heart eyes emoji). Cronuts are a cross between a croissant and a doughnut, and this one is dusted with cinnamon sugar and can be order A LA MODE......Yes, you heard that right. Wanna hear something even better? You can get one as a snack if you purchased a Disney Dining Plan! 

9. Mickey Rice Krispie Treats- All across property
                          
WDW Rice Krispie Treats are as legendary as Mickey's Premium Ice Cream treats. You're destined to come across these goodies anytime you visit Disney, even if you're not visiting the parks. Whether you like your rice krispie covered in chocolate, dipped in sprinkles, or extra large, Disney has them all! 

10. Frosted Cinnamon Bun- Gaston's Tavern
                             
Gaston's tavern is one of the new additions to Fantasyland, and it is my favorite place to relax in between attractions at Magic Kingdom! This cinnamon bun is the perfect size to share, and tastes delicious with a Lefou's Brew (A delicious frozen apple cider drink)! 

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These are my personal favorite desserts in Disney, but I would love to hear what yours are! 
                                     Comment Below, and have a magical day

Butterbeer Milkshake

      Alright, I'll admit it.......I'm a Potterhead...
For all you Muggles out there who don't know, it means I am a HUGE fan of the Harry Potter series. 


      Now back to my fellow Potterheads, has anyone else finished crying over Harry Potter and the Cursed Child yet?? I finished the book in a week (for me, that's really fast...). It was so good, but I'm not going to give any spoilers away, so for those of you that haven't read it yet SHAME ON YOU. Go buy it, or ask that one friend you haven't talked to in a while that owns the book to hangout so you can steal......I mean, BORROW the book. 

         So if you're the ultimate fan like myself, you've probably tried to make Butterbeer once or twice, or gone to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and had the delicious Universal Studios recipe (Do you like Frozen or Original?). But have you ever tried to make a Butterbeer milkshake? It can only get more delicious from here............

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ButterBeer Milkshake Recipe

3 scoops Vanilla Ice cream

1/4 C Heath Toffee Bits (Non-chocolate)

1 tsp Butter Extract

1/3 C Cream Soda

For the Marshmallow Whipped Cream:

1/4 C Marshmallow Fluff

1/2 C Heavy Cream

For the Butterscotch Ganache:

3/4 C butterscotch chips

1/2 C heavy cream

Any HP-inspired toppings you prefer:

Gold sprinkles, jelly beans, chocolate frogs, Floo Powder, Pumpkin Passies, Fairy floss, or Butterbeer Cupcakes

1. Make the ganache by heating the heavy cream to a scald and pour over the butterscotch chips. Let sit for 30 seconds, then whisk until a rich sauce forms, strain, and cool in the fridge.
2. For the milkshake, blend the ice cream, butter extract, and cream soda until frothy. Fold in the toffee bits.
3. Whisk the marshmallow fluff and heavy cream together until soft peaks form, you want it to be very soft so you can put a dollop on top.
4. Drizzle the ganache down the sides of a stein, pour your shake, and drop a dollop of cream on top. 
5. Top with whatever candy from the Trolley you'd like

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Enjoy with a whipped cream moustache!

Coca-Cola "Tastes of the World" Review

      My last trip to Disney Springs required stopping at the recently opened Coca-Cola store in between the Town Center and The West Side. Walking up the ramps around the outside of the store is a fun adventure in itself, but the real fun starts when you get to the top. 

      

      We had to try the combo tray: the international and the float tray. It's a fun way to quench your thirst, and sample fun/exotic drinks with a group of people. It's a great option for people who are really close, because the best way to sample each one is to let one person take a sip and then pass the cup around so we can all input our opinion. Some of them we all LOVED, such as the Fanta Orange float and the Fanta Apple Kiwi from Thailand. And some of them were not our taste, such as Beverly......nothing personal, Italy. We love your gelato!!! 

Top: International Tray Bottom: Float tray

      So after some shopping, quench your thirst, and have fun with friends at the top of the Springs!

Baking for the Head Mouse

        Interviewing for the Disney Culinary Program is one of the most intimidating things I have ever done. Thankfully, my school makes the interview process a lot easier because one of the top Disney Chefs, Chef Pauli comes to interview those of us who make an appointment. If you go to Johnson & Wales, or Culinary Institute of America, you will go through the same process. Here are some helpful tips to prepare for the interview:

• Reserve your interview spot ASAP. The beginning of the trimester is the best time to do so.
• Apply for the internship a few months in advance. I applied online in the summer and I reserved my interview spot the second week of fall trimester (My interview was the last week of October).
• Know your methods of preparation for basic baking & pastry formulas. Especially mousse, creme anglaise, and creme brulee. 
• Chef may ask a question about a plated dessert for kids, think about desserts at Disney that are trending at the moment, you want to say something interactive, like “Build Your Own” cupcakes with a variety of toppings, or a trifecta of cake pops
• Chef also likes to ask a question related to a plated dessert you would make for a special event, get creative! He wants to hear something different (I said fried cheesecake).
• Know your basic temperatures, fat content %’s of dairy, and recipe conversions
• If you want to work at a particular place, tell Chef! It never hurts to ask, and he may even ask you (:

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