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Berries and Cream Holiday Trifle

By Christina Thomas 2 Comments

Berries and Cream Holiday Trifle recipe and easy hacks to take boxed cake mix to the next level

Make This Tasty Trifle Recipe With Easy Hacks to Take Your Holiday Desserts To The Next Level!

Dig into dreamy layers of cubed buttery cake, fresh berries, vanilla pudding and fluffy whipped cream with this easy Berries and Cream Holiday Trifle garnished with sugared berries. A wonderful twist on decadent blueberry layer cake, that’s perfect for the holidays or to celebrate any day!

This post is sponsored by T.G. Lee® and Dairy Farmers of America. All opinions are my own. As always, I only promote products and experiences I love to inspire you to celebrate life and #MakeSomedayHappen one delicious bite, sip and trip at a time.

Jump to Recipe
Berries and Cream Holiday Trifle recipe and easy hacks to take boxed cake mix to the next level

We know the holidays will look a bit different this year. Gatherings will certainly be smaller. But they don’t have to be any less delicious! There’s still so much to celebrate and nothing says celebration better than a beautiful dessert. This Berries and Cream Holiday Trifle is guaranteed to make spirits bright!

And it’s so easy to make. Especially if, like me, you’re not a baker and prefer to go for easy entertaining. With this recipe you don’t have to worry about perfectly decorating a layer cake. In fact, it’s ok to be a bit messy. It’s as easy as layering cake, fresh berries, vanilla pudding and whipped cream.

I’m also sharing some tried and true hacks to amp up the flavor of boxed cake mix, instant pudding and whipped cream. Plus, an epic garnish that will elevate any holiday dessert.

If you’re short on time, you can prepare all ingredients ahead of time and assemble the night before. Then garnish shortly before serving.

This recipe works great in a large trifle bowl or glass bowl. Or make individual trifles in mason jars. These cute jars also make delicious gifts you can drop off to friends and family to brighten their day.

Berries and Cream Holiday Trifle recipe individual dessert gifts

Support Local This Holiday Season.

From the foods I serve at home, to the restaurants I visit and the gifts I give, I strive to support our local community every chance I get. It’s especially important now more than ever to support the community artisans, growers and farmers that make Central Florida special.

This is why I’m excited to be working with one of the dairy farmers that supplies farm-fresh milk to T.G. Lee®, the same brand you can find on our shelves here in Orlando, to create this holiday favorite recipe.

T.G. Lee® Dairy is Florida’s Hometown Dairy.

Most Orlandoans are used to seeing the T.G. Lee® Dairy  plant as you drive in East Orlando. It has been a landmark of the Orlando community since 1934. And now they even have a gorgeous 200 ft wide mural with the famous black and white Holstein Florida milk cows to honor Florida dairy farmers. You can’t miss it!

Fun Fact: Did you know T.G. Lee® was started by Thomas Gilbert Lee in 1925 with 20 acres, the family cow and a cosigned banknote from his father? He and his wife milked the cows themselves in a shack on North Bumby Avenue, near the present-day Orlando factory. Today T.G. Lee is one of the top milk processing plants in Florida. 

Look for T.G. Lee® products in stores around Orlando.

Travel Inspiration: The Milk District, Orlando

You know my recipes always come with a little travel inspiration. This Berries and Cream Holiday Trifle is no different. Except you won’t have to travel far!

T.G. Lee® is the cornerstone of “The Milk District” – one of the most fun and diverse neighborhoods in Orlando. You’ll find a plethora of small businesses, local mom and pop restaurants, hip breweries and bars. Dig into everything from tasty sandwiches, to tacos and famous Food Network worthy pies. It’s one of the “Must Visit” places I recommend to all Orlando visitors. As locals, we get to enjoy it any time we want!

T.G. Lee Dairy mural in Orlando, FL
Photo: Orlando Sentinel

Do You Know Where Your Milk Comes From? Get To Know Family Farmers Like Alliance Dairies

Seeing the expansive T.G. Lee Dairy plant where milk is processed, I always wonder where the milk actually comes from. So, I was thrilled to get to know the story of Jan Henderson. She’s a third generation family farmer at one of the dairy farms that supplies milk to T.G. Lee® Alliance Dairies in Trenton, Florida, about 2 hours north of Orlando.

Alliance Dairies is a partnership of generational family dairy farmers that now includes Jan Henderson and was the first Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) permitted dairy in North Florida. Today, it’s the largest free-stall dairy in one location within the state, employing more than 120 people while still maintaining their farm family culture. In fact, they’ve been recognized for their sustainability practices including their wastewater management and recycling in order to produce “nature’s most perfect food” – Milk. Their mission as a farm family is to produce high-quality milk. They’re dedicated to the safety, care, and betterment of their people, cows, land, and community.

Holiday Memories are Made of Milk!

Milks, creams and eggnogs are the centerpiece of so many delicious holiday memories, and I love knowing that the T.G. Lee milk I find at area grocers comes from family farms. Many like Jan, who’ve been running their family business for generations.

Today, I’m making my take on the Henderson family’s favorite holiday recipe – a five-layer blueberry stack cake. You’ll find this on their table at nearly every family gathering. Knowing that the T.G. Lee milk I used in my recipe might have come from the Henderson Family themselves makes it even more special!

Original Five Layer Blueberry Stack Cake Recipe

Here’s the recipe provided by Jan Henderson of Alliance Dairies which inspired my Berries and Cream Holiday Trifle.

Print
5 Layer Blueberry Stack Cake
Course: Dessert
Keyword: berries, Cake, Holiday Dessert
Author: Jan Henderson of Alliance Dairies
Ingredients
Butter Cake:
  • 1 butter recipe cake mix
  • 1 ⁄2 cup butter softened
  • 4 eggs
  • 2/3 cup T.G. Lee milk
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Buttercream Frosting:
  • 16 oz cream cheese room temperature
  • 2 sticks of butter softened
  • 4 cups confectioners’ sugar
Fruit Layer:
  • 2 21 oz cans blueberry pie filling
Instructions
  1. Combine cake mix with remaining ingredients in larger mixer bowl and beat until thoroughly mixed and batter is smooth.
  2. Pour by 2/3 cupsful into 5 separate 8” round cake pans.
  3. Bake each layer at 325 degrees for 15-20 minutes or until toothpick inserted in
  4. center of cake comes out clean.
  5. Cream together sugar, cream cheese and butter until smooth.
  6. Spread thin layer of frosting over bottom cake layer, then top with a thin layer of
  7. blueberry pie filling.
  8. Repeat until all layers are used.
  9. When all layers put together, frost top and sides of cake with frosting and pour
  10. remaining blueberry pie filling on top of cake
  11. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving; store cake in refrigerator.

Short on Time? Not a Baker? This Berries and Cream Holiday Trifle Recipe is for You!

I’m always short on time, especially during the holiday season, and I like to keep entertaining as easy as possible. If you have the time and love baking and decorating gorgeous cakes from scratch, then go for it, but don’t feel guilty if you can’t. This recipe works for all of us! And all the ingredients can be easily found in your favorite grocery store.

Here’s the secret: I’m using boxed cake mix and instant pudding as shortcuts. But of course, I’ve found a few tricks to elevate the flavors and make it my own. So I’m sharing some tried and true hacks to take boxed cake mix, instant pudding and whipped cream to the next level. Guaranteed to make your cakes rich and flavorful. Plus, a beautiful garnish perfect for holiday desserts.

Easy Hacks to Take Boxed Cake Mix To The Next Level

Let’s Talk About The Tasty Layers in This Holiday Trifle!

The Cake Layer:

As a time-saver, I’m using boxed cake mix like in Jan’s recipe. It’s a great shortcut. I chose a butter cake for extra butteriness. Vanilla or lemon cake would work as well.

Pro-tip: always substitute the water in the cake mix recipe with milk. It just plain tastes better! Milk adds richness to practically any recipe. And lots more nutrients.

Instead of making a 5 layer cake, I decided to go with a trifle. Why? It’s a lot more forgiving when it comes to decorating. Plus, I don’t have that many cake pans to bake 5 different cakes for the layers.

I baked the cake in (3) 8” pans so they would bake faster. You can also use a 9×13 baking dish. Bake per box instructions. 

Make sure to cool the cake completely before cutting into 1 ½ inch bite size cubes.

Traditional trifles include a drizzle of cream sherry to soften the cake. You can also use any liqueur of your choice, but this is optional.

Easy Hacks to Take Boxed Cake Mix To The Nextl Level

Easy Hacks To Take Boxed Cake Mix To The Next Level

Using boxed cake mix is nothing to be ashamed of. Not all of us can be Martha Stewart. But here are some easy tricks to take cake mix to the next level and give your cakes a homemade taste.

  1. Use milk instead of water. I prefer to use 2% or whole milk.
  2. Add an extra egg to what the box requires. It adds even more richness. 
  3. If the box calls for oil, use butter instead, and double the amount.
  4. Add flavoring extract. Vanilla extract is my favorite. You can also use lemon or almond depending on your flavor preference. 1 or 2 teaspoons of extract depending on how subtle you want the flavor to be.
  5. Add lemon zest. Zest half a lemon and add it to the batter. It brightens things right up!
  6. Add vanilla pudding mix. For this recipe since I’m using vanilla pudding as one of the layers, I didn’t add it to the cake batter. Normally I would add one small pouch of vanilla pudding mix into the batter.
T.G. Lee Milk takes boxed cake mix to the next level in this Berries and Cream Holiday Trifle Recipe

The Vanilla Pudding or Custard Layer:

A traditional English trifle dating back to the 1500s includes a layer of custard. I’m using boxed vanilla pudding mix as a shortcut. Add 1 tsp vanilla extract for a richer flavor and use T.G. Lee 2% milk. Chill in the refrigerator before assembling the trifle.

T.G. Lee Milk takes instant vanilla pudding mix and boxed cake mix to the next level in this Berries and Cream Holiday Trifle Recipe

The Whipped Cream Layer:

Make Your Own Whipped Cream!

Sure, you can buy whipped cream. But it tastes so much better when it’s homemade! And it’s so easy to make. After you do it once, you’ll be convinced. All you need is heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar and vanilla extract.

For this holiday trifle recipe, I’m making “stabilized whipped cream” for a bit more consistency to work within the layers of fruit and cake. I also don’t want it to “melt”.

To make stabilized whipped cream, add cream cheese. Or if you want to be super fancy, add mascarpone cheese. It has a more pronounced flavor but just as delicious. I used mascarpone whipped cream to accompany grilled peaches and cherries.

Stabilized whipped cream is thick enough to be used as frosting, piped with a piping bag or simply dolloped on pies and cakes. It won’t melt like regular whipped cream so you can set your dessert on the table without fear of it falling apart.

Stabilized whipped cream recipe

Here’s a few tricks to keep in mind when making stabilized whipped cream:

  1. Soften cream cheese to room temperature before mixing. Remove the foil wrapper and pop it in the microwave for 10 seconds if it’s too cold.
  2. Use chilled heavy whipping cream.
  3. Chill your mixing bowl and whisk or set your mixing bowl on top of a bowl full of ice while using a hand mixer. This is especially important with our hot weather in Florida.
  4. Add flavors. I love vanilla but you can also do lemon, almond, chocolate, or spices.
  5. To make it keto friendly, use monk fruit instead of powdered sugar.
  6. You can make it 2-3 days ahead and store in a sealed container in the refrigerator.
  7. When frosting a cake or using in a trifle, make sure the cake has completely cooled, before adding the whipped cream.
Stabilized whipped cream recipe

The Fruit Layer:

For the fruit layers in this Berries and Cream holiday trifle, use any berries you like. Fresh are best but frozen work too. This recipe is so versatile. You can also use other fruits such as peaches or cherries.

A traditional English trifle calls for a fruit jam to be spread over the cake. I’m skipping that step and using dollops of blueberry compote instead. I had some frozen blueberries from Southern Hill Farms in Clermont and simply cooked them down with sugar, lemon zest and fresh grated ginger.

Blueberry Compote in Berries and Cream Holiday Trifle recipe

What Berries Should You Use in a Trifle?

I love the combo of blueberries, blackberries and strawberries. Winter is the season for fresh Florida strawberries from Plant City so don’t miss out on buying local. If you can’t find fresh berries, use frozen fruit and mix into the compote.

Fresh Berries in Berries and Cream Holiday Trifle

The Garnish Top Layer:

An Epic Garnish To Elevate Any Holiday Dessert!

Sugared Berries are the answer. Go bougie with the garnish to give your trifle the elegant holiday look. Sugared fruit is a simple and beautiful way to decorate cakes, tarts and dessert tables.

The sugared berries should not be refrigerated because the sugar will melt off, so wait to apply until ready to serve.

You can also garnish with mounds of whipped cream and fresh berries if you want to skip this step.

Sugared Berries are an epic garnish for holiday desserts and Berries and Cream Holiday Trifle

How To Layer a Trifle?

The trifle is all about the layers! We’re going to layer cake, fruit compote, fresh berries, vanilla pudding and whipped cream. Try to get even layers and repeat for as many layers as your dish will fit. There’s no hard fast rule as to which layer goes first. 

Use a trifle bowl, glass bowl, individual mason jars or wide mouth glasses to showcase the layers.

With a trifle you don’t need to be too precise in assembling, but you should try to avoid smearing the sides of the bowl. The trick is to fill the center and spread around to the sides.

Finish with a layer of whipped cream. Cover and chill for a few hours in the refrigerator to set the layers. Although if you’re short on time, you can easily dig in as is. If you’re making overnight, stop at this step. Garnish before serving.

Berries and Cream Holiday Trifle Recipe

Berries & Cream Holiday Trifle Recipe

Print
Berries & Cream Holiday Trifle Recipe
Prep Time
10 mins
Cook Time
20 mins
Refrigerate
1 hr
Total Time
1 hr 30 mins
 

Dig into dreamy layers of cubed buttery cake, fresh berries, vanilla pudding and fluffy whipped cream with this easy Berries and Cream Holiday Trifle garnished with sugared berries. A wonderful twist on decadent blueberry layer cake, that’s perfect for the holidays or to celebrate any day! Plus, follow easy hacks to take boxed cake mix, instant pudding and whipped cream to the next level.

Course: Dessert
Cuisine: British
Keyword: berries, Cake, Milk, Trifle
Author: Christina Thomas
Ingredients
Cake
  • 1 box butter or vanilla cake mix
  • 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 large eggs
  • 3/4 cup T.G. Lee whole milk
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • Zest of ½ lemon
Vanilla Pudding
  • 1 5.1 oz vanilla flavored instant pudding (large box)
  • 3 cups T.G. Lee milk chilled
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Stabilized Whipped Cream
  • 8 ounces cream cheese softened
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 Tablespoon vanilla extract
Blueberry Compote
  • 2 cups frozen blueberries
  • 3 tablespoons water
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 2 teaspoons lemon juice
  • Zest from half lemon
  • ½ tsp fresh grated ginger
Berries
  • 1 lbs. strawberries
  • 12 oz blackberries
  • 12 oz blueberries
Sugared Berries Garnish
  • 2 cups fresh berries blueberries, strawberries and blackberries
  • 1 egg white
  • 1/4 cup granulated fine sugar
  • Fresh mint
Instructions
  1. Prepare each component in the order below:
Cake:
  1. Preheat oven to 325F. Grease sides and bottom of pan with butter and lightly flour. I’m using (3) 8-inch pans to keep my cake short in height. You can also use a 13×9-inch.
  2. Combine cake mix and all ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Beat until thoroughly mixed and batter is smooth.
  3. Bake as per time indicated on box for the size pans you’re using. I used 3 pans and baked for 20 minutes.
  4. Do the toothpick check and insert into the center of the cake. When it comes out clean, it’s done.
  5. Let the cake cool completely before cutting into bite sized cubes.
Vanilla Pudding:
  1. While the cake is baking, mix instant pudding, milk and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl and whisk for 2 minutes.
  2. Set aside for 5 minutes, cover and refrigerate.
Stabilized Whipped Cream:
  1. In a mixing bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until completely blended, about 1 minute. It’s very important that the mixture is smooth and free of lumps, forming stiff peaks. Set aside.
  2. In a separate chilled bowl, beat heavy whipping cream and vanilla on high speed until soft peaks form. About 1 minute.
  3. Add a few tablespoons of the heavy cream into the cream cheese and sugar mixture and mix until well incorporated. Then add the cream cheese mixture to the heavy whipping cream mixture and beat on medium speed until creamy, about 1-2 minutes.
Blueberry Compote:
  1. Combine blueberries with sugar, water, lemon juice, lemon zest and fresh ground ginger in a small saucepan. Cook on medium low heat for about 15 minutes, stirring frequently.
  2. Set aside to cool completely. Can be refrigerated until ready to use.
Berries & Sugared Berries:
  1. Wash and thoroughly dry all berries with a paper towel.
  2. Separate 2 cups assorted berries for sugared berries garnish. Set other berries aside to use in trifle layers.
  3. Slice strawberries lengthwise and set aside
  4. In a small mixing bowl, whisk egg white until it’s not stringy
  5. Lightly paint berries for garnish with egg white
  6. Place sugar on a plate and roll the berries in the sugar, giving it a light shake to roll.
  7. Gently place berries onto a tray lined with parchment paper to dry. The sugar will get nice and crunchy.
  8. Time Shortcut: turn oven on to warm, then turn it off, place the tray of sugared berries inside and leave the door ajar. Your berries will be ready in 15 mins
Assemble Trifle:
  1. Arrange 1/2 of the cake cubes around the bottom of the trifle bowl.
  2. Spoon dollops of blueberry compote over cake.
  3. Arrange 1/2 of berries in an even layer. Alternate berries along the sides of trifle bowl.
  4. Add 1/2 vanilla pudding, spread evenly. Placing most of it along the center of the bowl so that your berries show along the sides.
  5. Add ⅓ stabilized whipped cream, spread evenly with a spatula.
  6. Repeat layers of cake, berries, vanilla pudding and whipped cream.
  7. Top the last layer of whipped cream with an additional dollop in the center. Then top with sugared berries and fresh mint sprigs.
  8. Trifle can be assembled the night before up to the whipped cream layer. Wait to add the garnish layer until before serving.
Recipe Notes

For Whipped Cream:

  • Use block cream cheese, not the whipped kind. To soften, place the unwrapped package in a microwave safe bowl and microwave on high for 10 seconds.
  • If you are in a hot climate like Florida, place your mixing bowl inside a larger bowl filled with ice to maintain the heavy whipping cream chilled while mixing.

For Sugared Berries:

  • Do not store sugared berries in the refrigerator due to moisture. It’s best to make them the day you’re serving.

 

Berries and Cream Holiday Trifle Recipe

This Berries and Cream Holiday Trifle looks like it has a lot of steps but you’ll see how easy it is to prepare and assemble once you have each component. Especially since you can make it the night before. And it’s ok to be a little messy.

Quite frankly, this year, we’re lucky if we’re wearing our nice PJs for the holiday zoom party. This dessert will feel festive. And it will taste even better knowing there’s a taste of local using Orlando’s own T.G. Lee Milk.

Look for T.G. Lee products in stores around Orlando. Follow them on social media and learn more about T.G. Lee here. 

I hope you’re inspired to celebrate safely at home. #MakeSomedayHappen one delicious bite, sip and trip at a time.

If you make this recipe, please share on social media and tag @goepicurista #GoEpicRecipes and #TGLeeHoliday. I would love to virtually clink glasses with you. 

Cheers!

Go Epicurista

Disclosure: This post is written in partnership with Warner Brothers Pictures. As always, all opinions are my own. I only share with you products and experiences I love to inspire you to get together with family and friends, celebrate life and go #MakeSomedayHappen one delicious bite, sip, and trip at a time! To learn more about my guidelines, check out my disclosure policy. Cheers!

Check out this Berries and Cream Holiday Trifle Recipe!  Perfect for holiday parties & gifts. Plus don't miss these easy hacks to take your holiday desserts to the next level! #TGLeeHolidays. (Ad)
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About Christina Thomas

I'm Christina, a hospitality consultant, freelance writer, food & travel enthusiast, brand cheerleader, ice cream fanatic, chocoholic, and eternal optimist on a mission to #MakeSomedayHappen one delicious bite, sip and trip at a time. Celebrating life with great food, wine and friends throughout Central Florida and everywhere I GO! I want to inspire you to take time out of your busy schedule to do the same. GO celebrate life today, for someday may never come. Join me and GO Epicurista!

Comments

  1. Alicia says

    12/03/2020 at 10:43 am

    Excellent recipe!! I want to try to make it during this holiday season

    Reply
    • Christina Thomas says

      12/03/2020 at 11:50 am

      I Hope you’ll enjoy it! Happy Holidays!

      Reply

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Meet your Chief Epicurista

I'm Christina, a hospitality consultant, freelance writer, food & travel enthusiast, brand cheerleader, ice cream fanatic, chocoholic, and eternal optimist on a mission to #MakeSomedayHappen one delicious bite, sip and trip at a time. Celebrating life with great food, wine and friends throughout Central Florida and everywhere I GO! I want to inspire you to take time out of your busy schedule to do the same. GO celebrate life today, for someday may never come. Join me and GO Epicurista! Find out more...

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Happy St. Patrick’s Day! ☘️ The Mighty St. P Happy St. Patrick’s Day! ☘️ The Mighty St. Patrick’s Day Festival at @raglanroadpub in @disneysprings is my favorite spot in Orlando to celebrate all weekend long! Here are 17 of my Must Eat & Drink items on the menu I always recommend. The fantastic entertainment with Raglan Road Dancers and musicians straight from Ireland only adds to the ‘craic’! 
STARTERS:
☘️ BOARD OF BEAUTY: An Irish Egg, Dalkey Duo, Bang Bang’s chicken, and Beef in Bed all on one beautiful board to share!
☘️ NOM NOM WINGS: Sweet ‘n’ spicy wings in honey, chili flake, soy & ginger sauce
☘️ KISS BEFORE SHRIMP: Pan-seared shrimp in a garlic and chili lemon butter 
ENTREES:
☘️ GNOCCHI SEA GNOCCHI DO: Handmade potato gnocchi, seared Foley’s Georges Bank scallops, crispy pork belly, tomatoes & kale in white wine butter sauce
☘️ LET THERE BE NO RUSH PORK: 12-hour slow braised pork shoulder, champ mashed potato, sautéed cabbage with crispy bacon, carrot puree, apple cider jus
☘️ SHEPHERD’S TO DIE FOR PIE
Braised and pulled beef & lamb with root vegetables in a rich red wine jus with Irish peat smoked mashed potato
DESSERTS: 
☘️ GER’S BREAD AND BUTTER PUDDING: enough said! Just try it!
☘️ FLUFFY LEMON CLOUDS: Intense lemon curd tart with fluffy meringue
BRUNCH (SAT & SUN)
☘️ IT’S OK TO DROOL: Ger’s Bread & Butter pudding French toast style with vanilla mascarpone, mixed berries, hazelnut crunch, crispy maple glazed bacon
DRINKS:
☘️ THE LOST IRISH COFFEE 
☘️ ROSEMARY & MAPLE WHISKEY SOUR: Dickel 12 Tennessee Whisky, crushed rosemary, dark maple syrup, Fees foam, Lemon Sour
☘️ IRISH ESPRESSO MARTINI: Slane Irish Whiskey, J.F. Hadens espresso liqueur,
Guinness simple syrup, chilled espresso
☘️ ICED IRISH: Paddy’s Irish whiskey, butterscotch, Baileys Salted Caramel, cold brew coffee, whipped cream
☘️ IT’S A HELL OF A HOOLEY: Minke Irish Vodka, Muddled Raspberry’s, Lemon Sour, House made Rosemary Syrup, Fees Foam, Prosecco
Check out @raglanroadpub for all the details of this weekend’s festivities including food and drink specials! Say hi to owners Paul and John when you see them. Super nice guys! 
Sláinte!
Go #MakeSomedayHappen
#GoEpicOrlando
OREO YOU HAVING FUN YET?! Here are a few of my fav OREO YOU HAVING FUN YET?! Here are a few of my favorite Oreo treats around Orlando to celebrate #NationalOreoDay 🎉
🍦 @kellyshomemadeicecream - Locations around town, I visited my neighborhood fave at @foxtailhunterscreek 
• Ore-Dough Ice Cream (signature flavor) can’t beat cookies & cream and cookie dough combined!!! 💕 
• Salted Caramel Oreo (March limited time flavor)😘 
🍪 @gideonsbakehouse - Disney Springs, East End Market
• Cookies & Cream Cookie (signature flavor)
• Valentina Cake - red velvet & cookies n cream (signature flavor)
• Frankenstein Cookie (Limited Time /October) 
• Frankenstein Cake (Limited Time /October) 💕
🍩 @smokeanddonuts - Milk District
• Nutty Panda Donut: Nutella Buttercream, Oreos
• S’Moreo Donut: marshmallow, Oreos, Chocolate Chips 💕
• Cheepees Donut: vanilla glaze, Oreos, Chocolate Chips 
🍩 @everglazed_fl - Disney Springs
• Cookies & Cream Donut 😍
🍸 @wyndhamgrandorl Bar 1521 - Bonnet Creek
• Pharmacy Froth Cocktail (recipe in stories / may not be on the menu but ask the friendly bartender)
Have a sweet double stuffed week! 💕
Go #MakeSomedayHappen 
#GoepicOrlando #OreoDay #LoveOrlando
Time to reintroduce a local icon! 🔥 Congrats Ch Time to reintroduce a local icon! 🔥 Congrats Chef IanRussell, Juliana Peña & @smokeanddonuts team! 🔥
The new brick & mortar location of Orlando BBQ & Donut fave food truck is officially OPEN in @themilkdistrict at 601 N. Primrose Drive.
🔥 THE SMOKE: Chef Ian’s award-winning BBQ including smoked USDA Prime Brisket, Carolina Pulled Pork, Brown Butter Turkey Breast, Bama/Carolina Pulled Chicken, & more scratch-made side dishes. Don’t miss the awesome sandwiches, corn fritters, brown butter green beans & stuffed mac & cheese!
🍩 THE DONUTS: Better than ever! Try fun new cake donut creations as well as all the favorite classics taken to a whole new level by pastry chef Brett Vezina! 
❤️ 🔥 The Signature Donut with the logo disc on top features blood orange glaze, champagne sabayon & S&D meringue.
🥃 THE BAR: Yes! they have a full bar! How about a Smoked Old Fashioned? Go for Happy Hour weekdays 3pm-6pm
Support Orlando Local & Go #MakeSomedayHappen
#GoEpicOrlando #TheMilkDistrict #SmokeandDonuts #LoveOrlando
“You do not find a happy life, you make it!” “You do not find a happy life, you make it!” 
I spent one of the best days ever at Discovery Cove! It was my first visit to this one-of-a-kind, all-inclusive, tropical day resort in Orlando, and it won’t be my last! I’m planning a return soon because they have a fantastic special happening now! (See below)
Admission includes: 
🍽️ Unlimited Buffet Breakfast, Lunch & Snacks
🍹 Unlimited Beer & Wine, (add the Premium Drink Package for $40!)
🤿 Swim & snorkel with rays & tropical fish
🐦 Hand-feed exotic birds
🏊‍♀️ Drift along the Wind-Away River
🏖️ Relax on sandy beaches
😎 Chill in the sand-bottom pool with drink in hand (we did this most of the day!) it was glorious!
🚿 Wetsuits, masks, snorkel, lockers, & showers 
🐬 Swim with dolphins experience (for additional fee)
Stay tuned for more about the delicious new Caribbean menu and cocktails at Hibiscus Hideaway & Blue Bamboo Bar, all-new food and beverage outlets. I was very impressed with their Food & Beverage program. 
Highly recommend this experience for locals and visitors. The entire day felt like a true vacation! 
💥 Limited time offer: Florida residents save 30% on their 2023 visits and out of state guests save 20% on a Signature Dolphin Swim Package. You can visit anytime in 2023 based on availability but must book by 3/12/23. Options for packages with admission to @seaworldorlando @aquaticaorlando & @bushgardenstampa available 
Go #MakeSomedayHappen 
(hosted) @DiscoveryCove 
#GoEpicOrlando #DiscoveryCove #LoveOrlando
Orlando’s OG Coffee Shop is Back! Where are you Orlando’s OG Coffee Shop is Back! Where are you getting your caffeine & brunch fix this weekend?
@barniescoffeeandtea flagship cafe in Park Avenue, Winter Park has now re-opened with a brighter modern look, new breakfast, lunch & brunch menu, and new coffee blends. Go check it out! 
I was invited to a preview and loved doing a coffee tasting of 4 blends with Christian, Barnie’s head coffee roaster. My favorite was the Guatemala Gehsa with citrus, cocoa nibs and orange blossom notes. We also sampled new menu items. Don’t miss the Shakshuka & the Popovers!
Here’s what we sampled:
☕️ Coffee:
✨Barnie’s Cafe Blend
✨Guatemala Gehsa
✨Birthday Cake Batter (notes of vanilla sprinkles)
✨UCF Pegasus Blend (notes of chocolate & caramel!) yum! 
> I couldn’t resist getting a latte even though it was 6pm! 🤣 Barista Renata did a fab vanilla latte! 
🍳 Breakfast:
✨ Signature Popovers
✨French Toast with fresh truit
✨Shakshuka with poached egg
✨Seasonal Quiche
🥪 Lunch:
✨Cuban Sandwich
✨Roasted BeetSalad
Did you know Barnie’s is Orlando’s original coffee shop? It opened right here in Winter Park in 1980!
Go support local! #MakeSomedayHappen 
#GoEpicOrlando #LoveOrlando #barniescoffeeandtea #orlandocoffee
Hey Orlando Foodies, @orlandocitysc and @orlpride Hey Orlando Foodies, @orlandocitysc and @orlpride games at @exploriastadium just got a whole lot tastier!
Five #OrlandoMade local restaurants are now permanent concessions vendors so you can tame your hunger with the best local tacos, hot dogs, BBQ, Chicken & Burgers in Orlando! 
Thank you Exploria Stadium for inviting me to the media preview. Can’t wait to go cheer on our 2022 US Open Champions at the season opener this Saturday!
Here’s a preview of what we sampled: 
🌮 BLACK ROOSTER TAQUERIA - Chicken Tinga Taco on Flour Tortilla, w. lettuce, radish, cotija cheese, cilantro. Love those tacos! It was nice to see owner Juliana Calloway and Chief Tasting Officer Ryder Calloway dancing! 🕺🏻 @blkroostertaco 🙌🏼
📍 The Wall / Section 24
🌭 HARRELL’S HOT DOGS - Orlando City Stadium Dog features a Nathan’s Hot Dog topped with House Red Onion Sauce, Sauerkraut & Sport Peppers and finished with a Spicy Brown Mustard. Nice to meet owners Drew & David Cardaci! @_whats.up.dog_ 🙌🏼
📍 Section 30
🍖 4 RIVERS SMOKEHOUSE - Orlando’s favorite Pulled Pork Sandwich! Didn’t get to see owner John Rivers did you know you can now pick up 4R sauces & spices at Publix?! @4riverssmokehouse 🙌🏼
📍 Section 31
🐓 THE COOP by 4Rivers - Hand-breaded Chicken Tenders with 4R BBQ sauce @thecoop_wp 🙌🏼
📍 Section 9
🍔 TEAK NEIGHBORHOOD GRILL - Drunken Monk Burger with Smoked Bacon, Provolone Cheese, Roasted Cherry Tomotoes, house-made Angry Orchard Onion Jam, on Herb Mayo & Melted White Cheddor on a Pretzel Bun with Teak Chips. Best Burger in Orlando!  It was so nice to meet owner Jon Proechel after all these years of being a fan of their epic burgers! @teakneighborhoodgrill 🙌🏼
📍 Section 18
🍹MANE-GO MARGARITA - In The Wild Margarita with @camarenatequila - super tasty! 
⭐️ FYI - A Rotating Vendor Cart will feature @cholodogs & @sushieatstation among others 
⚽️ Will you be at the season opener this Saturday? 
#VamosOrlando Let’s Go! #ManEveryWall 💜 
Hosted #GoEpicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #ThingsToDoinOrlando
Happy #NationalMargaritaDay 🎉 This is “NOT E Happy #NationalMargaritaDay 🎉
This is “NOT EVERYONE’S MARGARITA” -  But it is mine! Made with Vida Mezcal, Cuervo Traditional Plata Tequila, Jalapeño, Creme de Mure, House Sour, & Black Salt. Epic! 
📍 Go get yours at @paddlefishorl in @disneysprings
Cheers! 
#GoEpicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #DisneySprings
Hey Wine Lovers, I almost missed it’s #NationalD Hey Wine Lovers, I almost missed it’s #NationalDrinkWineDay 🥂
Here’s my 3 Favorite Wine Bars in Orlando: 
🍷 @quantumleapwinery - Orlando’s only sustainable winery & cidery, located in Mills 50 District. Try Kaley’s Rescue Red Blend & don’t miss the @thetastytrio “Wine, Cheese & Chocolate”events. 
🍷 @viniawinekitchen - fantastic boutique wines & Italian / Brazilian shareable plates in a charming intimate setting, located in Winter Park. Be sure to ask owner Fabio for his recommendations! 
🍷 @winebargeorge - Orlando’s only Master Sommelier owned restaurant with over 160 wines by the glass, bottle & ounce, located in Disney Springs. Say hi to somm genius George Miliotes and don’t miss their fab boards & wines from around the globe! 
Go #MakeSomedayHappen 
#GoEpicOrlando #OrlandoWine #loveOrlando
Don’t miss “Eat Ice Cream For Breakfast Day” Don’t miss “Eat Ice Cream For Breakfast Day” on Saturday 2/18! 
@kellyshomemadeicecream has created special breakfast-themed ice cream flavors for this annual International Childhood Cancer Awareness event
Order a cup, cone or shake or better yet, get an Ice Cream Flight & try all four! 
🥞 Blueberry Pancake (My favorite!)
🥣 Breakfast Buddies
🥓 Maple Bourbon Bacon
💥 Cinnamon Crunch
🗓️ When: Saturday February 18th, 9am-11am
📍 Where: All Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream Scoop Shops and participating Counters 
💰 50% of sales during breakfast will be donated to @gktwvillage 
🍦 “Eat Ice Cream For Breakfast Day” was created in 2013 in honor of Malia Grace, by her mom and aunt after she lost her battle with cancer in 2010. Malia Grace loved ice cream and her family wanted to commemorate her birthday, 2/18, in a way that would be fitting for her. During her wish trip at Give Kids The World, she had the opportunity to eat ice cream for breakfast and it was a highlight of the family’s experience. 
🌎 Give Kids The World Village is an 89-acre, whimsical nonprofit in Central Florida that provides critically ill children and their families with magical week-long wish vacations at no cost. Every wish family is treated to accommodations, transportation, donated theme park tickets, all meals and snacks, nightly entertainment, and more. Since 1986, Give Kids The World has welcomed more than 182,000 families from all 50 states and 76 countries.
Stop by Kelly’s and pick up these awesome flavors! But, regardless of where you are, Eat Ice Cream for Breakfast in honor of Malia, and raise awareness for those who battle childhood cancer. 💛
#GoEpicOrlando #eaticecreamforbreakfastday #kellyshomemadeicecream #kellysicecream #orlandoicecream
Happy Valentine’s Day! ♥️ Add a little fire Happy Valentine’s Day! ♥️ Add a little fire & passion to your life, head to @gideonsbakehouse for their Eternal Flame Cookie & Cake. They are 🔥in the best way!
🍰 Eternal Flame Cake is a 3-Layer Double Frosted Chocolate work of art! Red Cherry Buttercream layers and Chocolate Fudge Buttercream mixed with a bit of that Eternal Flame spice on the outer layer. Not too spicy and absolutely decadent! Pair it with a nice bold red wine!
🍪 Eternal Flame Chocolate Cookie packs a nice kick laced with house-made Ancho, Cayenne, and Cinnamon Spice Mix, infused with a magical essence of cherry and topped with Chocolate Covered Cherries. 
❤️ For a limited time, a special version of the Eternal Flame cookie without the spice mix is available too! (Check Gideon’s IG for details)
📍 Available only in February at Gideon’s in East End Market & Disney Springs
Go celebrate with the best cookies and cakes on the planet!
#MakeSomedayHappen #GoEpicOrlando #GideonsBakehouse #DisneySprings #ValentinesDayTreat
For The Love of Chocolate… stop by @peterbrookew For The Love of Chocolate… stop by @peterbrookewp and pick up the best treats for your sweetie and besties 💕
A few of my favorites: 
🍓 Chocolate Covered Strawberries (require advanced order)
❤️ “Jami Choo’s” Chocolate Shoes
💋 Assorted Truffles (loved the red lips!)
♥️ Chocolate Covered Popcorn! 
💖 Baskets with a variety of treats! (Don’t miss the Chocolate Covered Oreos, Cat Tails & Cookies)
☎️ Call the shop to reserve a basket for quick pick up at (407) 644-3200. They’re open regular hours today & 7AM -11:15PM on Valentine’s Day!
🍓 Thank you to Peterbrooke’s creative Cupid chocolatiers for these gorgeous berries! 
#GoEpicOrlando #PeterbrookeWP #winterparkfl
Bon jour! Bon soir, enchante! 💕 The perfect way Bon jour! Bon soir, enchante! 💕 The perfect way to celebrate Galentine’s Day & Valentine’s Day is with the best French pastries in Orlando! 
Thank you @chefstephsteph for these epic @choulalapastries 💕
Pre-order and pick up at either Choulala Park Avenue and 436 location! You’re going to want to get all of this! 
VALENTINE’S DAY DESSERT BOX!
Chef Steph created an epic gourmet assortment of Valentine’s Day delights perfect to share:
💋 (1) Lychee Rose French Kiss Entremet
♥️ (2) Conversation Heart Vanilla Macarons
💝 (2) Crème Brûlée Choux Cream Puffs!
“I LOVE CHOU” BOX includes:
❤️ Passion Fruit, Raspberry & Crème Brûlée Choux Cream Puffs
♥️ Red Velvet, Lavender & Conversation Heart Macaron
❤️ Strawberry Eclair
I also picked up these gorgeous heart shaped entremets:
💜 Exotique: Passion Fruit & Coconut 
💖 Sweeties: Strawberry & Chocolate Brownie
Go enjoy the sweetest Galentine’s & Valentine’s Day #MakeSomedayHappen 
📍Choulala Park Avenue is open regular hours Saturday & Sunday, closed Mon, but will open special hours on V-Day Tuesday 11a-8p.
📍Choulala 436 open regular hours including 10-5pm V- Day
(Hosted) #GoEpicOrlando #BlissfulBite #ChoulalaPastries #Galentines #ValentinesTreats
It’s #NationalPizzaDay but all I’m thinking ab It’s #NationalPizzaDay but all I’m thinking about is Hot Garlic Knots from @official_pizza_bruno 
Have you tried these?  They are a #MustEat in Orlando!
Look for the lit “Hot Knots Now!” sign! 🔥 And, when you think there isn’t enough garlic... there’s more! 🧄 🍕 
Go get some!
#GoEpicOrlando #OrlandoFoodie #MakeSomedayHappen
💜 Feeling the lavender haze... One of my favori 💜 Feeling the lavender haze... One of my favorite foodie experiences of 2022 was dining at Salt & The Cellar by Michelin Chef Akira Back and spending the night at the new @ettehotel - a gorgeous boutique hotel with impeccable attention to detail! I even got to meet @chefakiraback 
So excited I’m going back tonight to check out their new Lipa Rooftop Bar & Restaurant and have reservations for Afternoon Tea next month! 
Add a visit to ette hotel to your Foodie Bucket List for 2023! 
A few favorites from my last visit:
🍸 Fantastic Zero-Proof Cocktails by @jarldevries: It’s Dry January all year long! Featured first is The Kraken, a gorgeous purple cocktail made with Butterfly Pea Flower Tea & Champagne Vinegar
✨ Toro Tartare: A gorgeous board with fatty tuna and accompaniments
✨ Akira Back Tuna Pizza: his famous dish is a Must Eat! 
✨ Spinach Oshitashi Salad: the most gorgeous salad I’ve ever seen! 
✨ NY Strip with Wasabi Kizami Butter, Chimichurri Sauce, & choice of gourmet salts. Amazing! Loved that Espresso salt
✨ Miso Black Cod, yuzu air, pickled cauliflower 
✨ Togarashi Fries & Kimchi Brussels
✨ Dessert: Yuzu Curd and Chocolate in a Cup
☕️ “Where The Cloud Ends” Zero-Proof espresso martini with Yuzu Tonic, Lemon Cordial, Espresso, 0% Coffee Liquor
💜 The lobby decor with lavender and green touches was dreamy.
🧺 They have a Laundry Museum! 
📕 The Book Room features incredible books. The giant picture book requires gloves to review as it is one of a few in the world! 
The hotel is focused on wellness and offers Wellness Suites completely equipped with a full gym! 
Make plans to dine at @saltandthecellarbyakiraback and stay at @ettehotel and GO #MakeSomedayHappen
(Hosted) #GoEpicOrlando #ettehotel #saltandthecellarbyakiraback #experiencekissimmee #LoveOrlando
Don’t let the casual vibe at @jujubysusuru fool Don’t let the casual vibe at @jujubysusuru fool you. The Kappo Bar Omakase experience with Chef Lewis Lin is out of this world (& Michelin-worthy!)
“irasshaimase / come in!” is what you hear first upon entering this revamped Pizza Hut building off Colonial Drive. Everyone is welcome at Juju, one of Orlando’s newest restaurants and one that belongs on every #OrlandoFoodie bucket list! 
I was invited to experience their Kappo Bar and it checked all the boxes for a truly amazing #MakeSomedayHappen experience.
The retro Japanese izakaya-style restaurant serves up a 10-course menu at the bar and a more casual a la carte menu in the dining room. 
Omakase menu changes regularly but always features the five primary cooking techniques (grilling, steaming, frying, simmering, and raw) using local and imported ingredients, in-house dry-aged fish, and binchotan charcoal-fired dishes. Everything is prepared right in front of you for an immersive experience.
And, Don’t miss the fun cocktails! I loved “That Old Pizza Hut” was like an orange creamsicle with Suntory Toki Whiskey served in a Pizza Hut cup! 
Make reservations and go check this Orlando restaurant off your bucket list.
Thank you Chef Lewis and Mai for your outstanding hospitality. I’ll be coming back soon!
(Hosted) #GoEpicOrlando #LoveOrlando #omakase
Hello 2023! Why start the year on a diet? My new y Hello 2023! Why start the year on a diet? My new year’s resolution is to focus on self-care.  Eating healthy and exercising, sure. But also treating myself to more @gideonsbakehouse cookies, cakes & cold brews. Who’s with me? What will you treat yourself with this year?
You want something. Go Get It. Period!
This was my last purchase of 12/31/22... I wanted to start 2023 on a sweet note!
What if my 2023 resolution is to visit Gideon’s every month for their awesome limited-edition treats? 
I think that’s a resolution I can keep!  January’s Butterscotch flavors sound to die for.
Did you hear? The epic Banana Bread Chocolate Chip cookie is now part of the permanent lineup. While the Coffee Cake is my all-time favorite, this one is in the top 3! And, the original Peanut Butter Cold Brew is a must pairing.
What resolution will you set today? Go #MakeSomedayHappen 🎉 Happy New Year everyone!
#GoEpicOrlando #2023resolutions #GideonsBakehouse #DisneySprings
Happy New Year 2023! 🎉 We had a fun and very ch Happy New Year 2023! 🎉 We had a fun and very chill night at @disneysprings. How about you?
I love Progressive Dining and Disney Springs has plenty of options. We just get a spot at the bar and order a drink and a fun bite. Then move on to the next spot. So easy! No reservations required! 
🦀 1st Stop: @paddlefishorl 
Steak Skewers
Crab Topped Fries 
Larceny Old Fashioned 
Capt Handsome - Cathead Vodka & Raspberry 
Mayan Empress - Santa Teresa Añejo Rum, pineapple
🍰 2nd Stop: @homecominfl 
Espresso Martini 
Carrot Cake 
☘️ 3rd Stop: @raglanroadpub 
Great entertainment! 
@guinnessus 
Great Irish Hooley Cocktail - so refreshing with strawberries & Prosecco 
🍪 Not pictured: we managed a stop at @gideonsbakehouse to pick up treats to start the new year!!! (They had a 2 second brief moment with no line around 11pm! I could not resist! I picked up a Banana Bread Chocolate Chip cookie which is now part of the year-round line up! I also got a slice of Golden Oreo cake and a PB Cold Brew to enjoy today! Starting 2023 off right… and not a diet 😂
We went early, had a great time and got home in time to watch the ball drop!!! 🎉
Wishing you all happiness and lots of delicious treats in 2023! 
#GoEpicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #DisneySprings
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