Sweet magic for locals who live close enough to indulge anytime they want
Living near Disney means dessert isn’t just an afterthought… it’s practically a sport. From half pound cookies to handcrafted ice cream, gourmet doughnuts, milkshakes the size of your head and late night sweet stops sprinkled across the Disney Bubble… the area is packed with treats that keep locals smiling long after fireworks fade.
Whether you want a cozy date night dessert, a family outing, or a late night sugar run after a few hours in the parks, here are the best places to satisfy your sweet tooth near Disney.
🍪 1. Gideon’s Bakehouse
Disney Springs
The heavyweight champion of Orlando desserts… literally.
Why locals love it:
- Half pound cookies
- Rich, indulgent cakes
- Cold brews that taste like melted cookies
- Fun goth fantasy theming
- Monthly rotating flavors
It’s dramatic… it’s delicious… it’s always worth the wait.
🍨 2. Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream
Horizon West • Audubon Park • Multiple Locations
A local favorite with flavors that taste like sunshine in a cone.
Why it’s amazing:
- Homemade small batch flavors
- Limited edition seasonal releases
- Fluffy whipped cream and generous scoops
- Family friendly atmosphere
The Horizon West shop is a staple for locals.
🍩 3. Shaka Donuts
Winter Garden Village
Bright, fun and always fresh… these doughnuts bring tropical joy to your morning or late night.
Locals love:
- Unique flavors like guava, coconut and fruity pebbles
- Fresh dough made daily
- Cute aesthetic perfect for photos
It feels like taking your taste buds to the beach.
🍨 4. Salt & Straw
Disney Springs
The ice cream shop famous for its bizarre but beautiful flavors.
Expect:
- Honey lavender
- Salted chocolate ganache
- Olive oil ice cream
- Rotating seasonal menus
Perfect for adventurous dessert lovers.
🍦 5. Ghirardelli Soda Fountain & Chocolate Shop
Disney Springs
A classic… and still fantastic.
Why locals go:
- Massive sundaes
- Hot fudge that should win awards
- Brownie ice cream creations
- Late night hours
It’s nostalgic, sweet and always satisfying.
🍰 6. The Glass Knife
Winter Park • About 25 minutes from Disney
Worth the drive for anyone who loves decadent desserts in a beautiful setting.
Highlights:
- Elegant cakes and pastries
- Macarons
- Seasonal dessert flights
- Pink, dreamy interior
A great date night treat spot.
7. Everglazed Donuts & Cold Brew
Disney Springs
Over the top doughnuts and cold brews with personality.
Locals enjoy:
- Massive doughnuts
- Limited edition flavors
- Fun toppings
- Outdoor seating
Perfect for late night cravings or a sugar rush before a long walk.
🧁 8. Sugar Factory
ICON Park • 15 minutes from Disney
Desserts here are theatrical… and that’s the point.
Why it’s fun:
- Insane milkshakes
- Giant sundaes
- Cotton candy cocktails
- Bright, energetic vibe
Great for kids, groups and celebrations.
🍪 9. Cookie Crumblancers (Multiple Local Bakeries)
Orlando Area
A rotating mix of local cookie shops creating giant, gooey gourmet cookies.
Local favorites include:
- Insomnia Cookies (late night delivery)
- Foxtail Coffee’s seasonal baked goods
- Small batch pop ups at local markets
Perfect for sweet seekers on the move.
10. Boba Babes & Sweet Tea Spots in Horizon West
Horizon West
Horizon West is quietly becoming a hub for late night drinks and treats.
Local favorites:
- Chewy Boba
- Moge Tee
- The Greenery Creamery pop up carts
- Local food truck desserts
A fun and youthful dessert scene growing fast.
🍮 11. Amorette’s Patisserie
Disney Springs
For the classy dessert lover.
Highlights:
- Artisan cakes
- Delicate pastries
- Petite themed treats
- Artistic chocolate work
Great stop before fireworks.
🍪 12. Buttermilk Bakery
Winter Park • About 25 minutes from Disney
One of the most beloved bakeries in all of Central Florida.
Why it’s worth the trip:
- House made pastries
- Cookie sandwiches
- Rotating seasonal desserts
- Cozy café atmosphere
Bring friends… or bring a box home. No wrong answers.
🌙 13. Late Night Snacks at Disney Resorts
Anywhere around the Disney property
Locals love hopping over to:
- The Polynesian
- Grand Floridian
- Wilderness Lodge
- BoardWalk
For soft serve, cupcakes, cookies and pastries after fireworks.
It’s relaxing… magical… and easy.
⭐ Ready to Live Close Enough for Dessert Runs After Fireworks?
If you want a life filled with magic, sunshine and mouthwatering dessert spots… I’d love to help you get here.
👉 Schedule your Disney Bubble Buyer Consultation today.
Let’s match your dream lifestyle to the perfect neighborhood.
I’m Timothy Carter, your dedicated Disney World Orlando area relocation expert with The Funk Collection brokered by eXp Realty.
Author of the book: Moving To The Disney Bubble: Your Guide To Living Near the Magic
I specialize in helping Disney lovers & theme park enthusiasts find their perfect home or vacation investment property. I’m here to help turn your dreams into reality!
You’ll find everything you need to know about living in the greater Orlando area – from neighborhood guides, real estate tips & the lifestyle of living near the theme parks, to insider advice on relocating to this magical place.
My family moved to Orlando to LIVE the ultimate Disney lifestyle!
You can too! I can help! Click here —-> Meet With Timothy Carter
