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The Disney Parks Online Store will be releasing some shirts this month that I think Disney fans will love. The first shirt was inspired by the Jingle Cruise which was first introduced in Adventureland at Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts last holiday season. These shirts were designed by Disney Design Group artist Richard Terpstra and will be printed on a Hanes Nano-Tee for adults and a Hanes Beefy-Tee for kids. Look for the Jingle Cruise shirts online from November 10-13, 2014. Please allow 3-5 weeks for delivery. There will also be shirts celebrating the 25th Anniversary of Disney’s “The Little Mermaid”. This animated feature was first released in theaters on November 17, 1989. Shirts will be offered for both adults and kids from November 14-18, 2014. Shirts will be shipped in 4-6 weeks. To find these shirts, visit http://www.DisneyStore.com/ParkEvents on the dates listed above. Jingle Cruise and Disney’s The Little Mermaid Are Featured Online Only Shirts For November 2014 by Steven Miller: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

This week, we shared several holiday surprises on the Disney Parks Blog, including the first of a new series of Disney Side live video events – a look at “A Frozen Holiday Wish” as it happens at Magic Kingdom Park. If you missed our live stream, you can watch a replay this weekend and through the holiday season. Of course, “A Frozen Holiday Wish” is best experienced in person at Magic Kingdom Park – shows are now being presented nightly through December 31, 2014. Keep an eye out this month for our next Disney Side live stream event here on the blog. Also, Erin shared an update that you will be able to experience the popular nighttime spectacular “Fantasmic!” at Disneyland park with new viewing options beginning December 12. “Fantasmic!” will feature reserved and stand-by viewing as well as several all-new dining packages. Check Erin’s story for more details and to make reservations beginning November 12. Here are some of the other stories we worked on this week. Holidays at the Disneyland Resort Begins November 13 with ‘Frozen’ Additions and Returning Favorites – Fans of Disney’s “Frozen” will especially love this holiday season at the Disneyland Resort. Ten Reasons to Stay in a Disneyland Resort Hotel – A stay at a Disneyland Resort hotel is as much a part of the experience as much as a visit to the theme parks. Dateline Adventureland: Holiday Shipment Lost in the Jungle at Disneyland Park – Attention adventurers! Jungle Navigation Company misplaced another important shipment somewhere in the jungles of Adventureland at Disneyland park. Click through to learn more. The Running of the Goats at Disneyland Park – Watch a unique video to learn more about this adorable tradition at Disneyland park. The Stars of ‘Big Hero 6′ Are Ready for Their Disney Parks Debut – You’ll find Hiro Hamada and his buddy, a huggable robot named Baymax, stars of ‘Big Hero 6′, at Disney Parks starting this weekend! Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights Returns Tonight at Disney’s Hollywood Studios – It’s back! The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights, a favorite holiday offering among many of our park guests, returned to Disney’s Hollywood Studios this weekend. Celebrate Thanksgiving at Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa – Still making Thanksgiving plans? Consider celebrating family and food at Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa. Enjoy familiar Thanksgiving favorites … but with an island twist. Disney Parks Blog Weekly Recap by Thomas Smith: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

With the on-going renovations at Disny’s Polynesian Village Resort, we’re having fun visiting the updated quick-service restaurants — Captain Cook’s was our first stop, and recently, Kona Island. Hawaiian Shaved Ice, cherry and pina colada We sampled the NEW Hawaiian Shaved Ice. Yum! Plus, click below for all the details on this week’s Disney Food News… Disney Food NewsHawaiian Shaved Ice is on the menu at Kona Island in Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort!BabyCakes NYC will likely return to Downtown Disney as Erin McKenna’s Bakery Valentine!Pesto Knots have replaced Bread Sticks on the menu at Pinocchio Village Haus in Disney World’s Magic Kingdom.Chocolate Peanut Butter Whoopie Pie debuts at Jolly Holiday Bakery in Disneyland Park.Disney Resort Cast Members at resorts around the World competed in pumpkin decorating contests. Check out all the latest Disney Food News — even the stuff we don’t mention in posts on the blog! — on our Disney Food News Pin Board, including restaurant closures, Stitch-themed Waffles at ‘Ohana, Citricos Wine Dinner, and more! We’ve got all the latest for you, so check it out before you go. DFB Reader FindsIf you find a fun new food — or other edible awesomeness — in or from Disney, share a photo with us on facebook or twitter so we can add it to our DFB Reader Finds each Sunday! We especially love when our readers share their special celebrations with us; Happy Birthday! Here’s a gorgeous Mickey Ears Birthday Cake from Facebook Friend, Erin: Mickey Ears Cake Isn’t turning 1 awesome?! This Mickey cake shared via Facebook by Natalie is fabulous! Mickey Cake Do you have a Favorite Find? Please, share with us! DFB Guide to the Walt Disney World® Holidays 2014: Grand Launch!Tis the season to eat, drink, and go to Walt Disney World! And that means it’s time for the Grand Launch of the DFB Guide to the Walt Disney World® Holidays 2014 e-Book! The DFB Guide to the Walt Disney World Holidays 2014 e-Book Is Here!The DFB Guide to the Walt Disney World Holidays 2014 e-Book features 310 pages of all the info you need to know before you head to Walt Disney World for the holiday season, including NEW events and holiday happenings, over 250 photos, and an informative FAQ section. It includes: Detailed descriptions and photos of every holiday event and activity happening at the parks and resorts this year — including tips on how to make the best use of your time and money when visiting!A fully comprehensive holiday dining section with listings of holiday snacks, treats, meals, and menu items offered this year — from popcorn kiosks all the way to Signature Restaurants.New chapter on where to dine with no advance dining reservations.New chapter on 10 must-eat snacks this holiday season.A clickable 3-Month Schedule of Holiday Events so you can see at-a-glance what looks interesting to you.Comprehensive listings — with color photos! — of Disney Resort holiday decor and gingerbread displaysOur recommendations on ways to SAVE while you’re in Disney World this holiday season.A full chapter dedicated to all “New for 2014″ events, dining options, and activities, including what’s new at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, The Celebrate the Magic Castle Show, and the Epcot Candlelight Processional.Updated Scavenger Hunts Disney Cruise Line ChapterA Preview of the 2015 Holidays in Disney WorldAnd more!Don’t Miss Out on Any Disney Holiday Fun!You’re probably paying a lot of money for your Disney holiday vacation…and we’re here to make sure you get the biggest bang for your buck! And with the holiday season already here, the time is now! Holiday Guide Sample Pages Booking early for holiday events and dining is critical, and our exclusive holiday dining and event information is the most efficient way to plan your holiday strategy. On a budget? Find out how to make those dollars stretch all around Disney World. As always, we’ve made this guide instantly downloadable for your convenience. It’s easily installed on your mobile devices. And this guide is guaranteed to help you better plan a memorable holiday trip, or your money back — we all know that your vacation time (and budget) are limited and we want you to get the most out of your visit! DFB Guide to the Walt Disney World Holidays Bonus ItemsOf course, the guide includes customized bonus items that go above and beyond any other holiday season coverage currently available. These include: Themed holiday crawls (there’s even one for seasonal beverages!)Customized Holiday Touring Strategies for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, gingerbread displays, and moreOur suggestions for the best restaurants to visit when you don’t have a reservation…on the busiest days of the yearA full section on great holiday activities and events for kidsAnd more! We even have an updated and expanded FAQ section that answers questions you didn’t even know you had!Don’t forget — for easy access in the parks, put the guide on your smartphone or ipad! Once again, celebrate the grand launch with us by getting $3 off the purchase price for the e-Book TODAY!Order your copy now for only $11.95 (regularly $14.95). To secure the discount, use code JINGLE at the check-out. For more detailed information and sample pages from The DFB Guide to the Walt Disney World Holidays 2014, head over to the DFB Store! BUNDLE FOR SAVINGS! And if you want an even BETTER deal, snap up our DFB Holiday Bundle! This includes the DFB Guide to the Walt Disney World Holidays AND our original DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining 2014! With a 100% 30-day, money-back guarantee on all of our guides, you have nothing to lose! Thanks for your support of the DFB!Bambi Mug On to the Round-Up!Mickey Fix showcases a woodsy Bambi mug. Perfect for sipping hot beverages. These would look great on your Thanksgiving table! Yummy Crumble bakes a Star Wars Sarlacc Bundt Cake. Includes buttery caramel! Walt Disney World for Grown Ups shares tips for using leftover Disney Dining Plan snack credits. Stock up on take-home gifts! AllEars shares gluten free dining tips for Walt Disney World guests. Great Disney Dining Plan tips too! Nerdy Nummies makes . Easy step-by-step instructions!Disney Hipster shares vegetarian dining at the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue in Fort Wilderness. Fox News reports on the strangest places to dine at Disney parks and resorts. Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com!Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on TwitterBecome a Facebook Fan Related posts: Disney Food Post Round-Up: November 2, 2014Disney Food Post Round-Up: November 18, 2012Disney Food Post Round-Up: November 10, 2013 View the full article

Eastbound Interstate 4 is shutdown near Polk City because of a five-vehicle crash, according to Polk County deputies. View the full article

Five days after a husband and wife were found shot to death in their East Orange County home, their 30-year-old quadrapolegic son named a person of interest has not yet been located. View the full article

An 81-year-old man allegedly stole 11 truckloads of tangerines Tuesday from a Lake Wales farm and sold them at a market for more than $300, according to Polk County deputy sheriffs. View the full article

The U.S. carried out airstrikes that targeted a gathering of Islamic State leaders in northern Iraq, military officials said Saturday. View the full article

Despite having never met her uncle, Army Sgt. Frank Torigian, Glenda Frese has spent the last 15 years trying to bring his remains home from their unknown resting place in North Korea. View the full article

For years, environmentalists have tried to prevent 3,000 acres of land called Mira Lago, bordering the Disney Wilderness Preserve, from becoming a housing development. View the full article

The 20 catchiest songs ever according to a study from researchers at the University of Amsterdam in collaboration with the Museum of Science and Industry in Manchester. View the full article

The block around the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts is buzzing. View the full article

Last Sunday, we kicked off the month with our latest Disney Parks Blog meet-up featuring a special preview screening of the Walt Disney Animation Studios film “Big Hero 6” before it opened...From:Disney ParksViews:25838ratingsTime:02:34More inTravel & Events

Last Sunday, we kicked off the month with our latest Disney Parks Blog meet-up featuring a special preview screening of the Walt Disney Animation Studios film “Big Hero 6” before it opened on November 7. Hundreds of readers (some in costume) joined us at AMC Downtown Disney 24 at Walt Disney World Resort to see “Big Hero 6” – an action-packed comedy-adventure about robotics prodigy Hiro Hamada, who learns to harness his genius—thanks to his brilliant brother Tadashi and their like-minded friends: adrenaline junkie Go Go Tomago, neatnik Wasabi, chemistry whiz Honey Lemon and fanboy Fred. Attendees of the Meet-Up also enjoyed a meet-and-greet with “Big Hero 6” characters Hiro and Baymax during the event. Both characters are coming to Disney Parks. GalleryFans Cheer ‘Big Hero 6 at Disney Parks Blog Meet-Up view all When the movie ended, fans applauded and cheered before heading out to see the giant 40-foot Baymax at Downtown Disney. Thank you to everyone who attended our latest Walt Disney World Resort meet-up – it was a fantastic time. If you weren’t able to join us to see the movie, remember, “Big Hero 6” opens in theaters, in 3D on November 7. For more information, visit Disney.com/bighero6. Be sure to keep an eye on the Disney Parks Blog for information about our next meet-up opportunity. Fans Cheer ‘Big Hero 6′ at Disney Parks Blog Meet-Up by Thomas Smith: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

The last time anyone saw Carline Brumaire Jean alive she was inside her car, waving her arms as it sank into a lake near Universal Orlando in February. Unable to escape her Toyota, she drowned. View the full article

Jamie Sonnentag was walking down Fairbanks Avenue in Winter Park one day last week when it happened — again — as two young men drove past in a car. View the full article

Season’s Greetings! That’s right… our holiday celebrations are getting ready to set sail. And this year, our Very Merrytime Cruises are more magical than ever with brand-new events for the whole family! Today marks the first day of our Very Merrytime Cruises on the Disney Fantasy, and the party starts tomorrow on the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder and Monday on the Disney Dream. If you’re cruising with us this week through the New Year, here’s some of the new holiday fun you can expect… Mickey’s Tree-Lighting Magic – In the atrium lobby on the first night of the cruise, Disney characters lead holiday carols and the lighting of the glittering, three-deck-tall tree. This special event is the perfect way to kick off the holiday celebrations! Winter Wonderland Ball – To celebrate the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus, you’re invited to don your holiday finest and join Disney friends and princesses for a glamorous ball. On this night filled with dancing, singing and festive treats, you’ll be enchanted by the transformation of a snowman into jolly old Saint Nick himself before a magical snowfall overtakes the atrium. Holiday Carolers – Dickens-inspired characters and carolers carry the spirit of the holidays throughout the ship while singing holiday classics, sometimes with the help of favorite Disney friends. All of these special events are in addition to the activities you already love, like meet and greets with Santa, building gingerbread houses, listening to holiday storytellers and dancing at the tropical-themed “Deck the Deck Holiday Party.” Of course no holiday celebration would be complete without sparkling decor, and our team of elves works hard throughout the year creating decorations unique to each ship (more than 300 pieces of custom decor per ship!) Then they have just a few hours to install it! To give you a better idea of the work taking place right this moment on the Disney Fantasy, take a look back at the 20-foot tree going up for the ship’s very first holiday season… Now that’s what I call teamwork! What part of our Very Merrytime Cruises are you looking forward to most? To learn more about our Very Merrytime Cruises, check out these posts: Fun Facts About Very Merrytime Cruises with Disney Cruise LineTop 10 Magical Moments on Disney Cruise Line’s Very Merrytime CruisesTop Five Fan Tips for First-Time Disney Holiday CruisersBrand-New Events Premiere on Very Merrytime Cruises by Jonathan Frontado: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

This week marked the 2014 debut of “A Frozen Holiday Wish” stage show and castle lighting, by none other than Queen Elsa herself. In the show, Elsa uses her gift to give us an amazing sight that’s perfect for the holiday season – Cinderella Castle covered in glittering ice. We were happy to be able to share this show with our fans live on the Disney Parks Blog last night in what will be the first of a series of holiday live streams that we are planning. You can watch a replay of the live stream here. Be sure to check out the gallery above for some amazing shots of the show, which stars Elsa, Anna, Kristoff and Olaf! This Week in Disney Parks Photos: ‘A Frozen Holiday Wish’ Debuts at Magic Kingdom Park by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

The elves are already hard at work at this year! And you can see their handiwork as part of this year’s new Disney Parks Holiday for Your Home Collection at retail locations all over Disney World. Holiday Merchandise display Holiday Merchandise display And I do mean it’s all over. Pretty much any shop you step in has a display like this, featuring this really fun retro-style line reminding you that the holiday season is inching closer by the minute. And, as always, we especially love checking out any and all kitchen goodies! Ready to get a jump on your holiday shopping? Just click any of the links you see below… The Happy Holidays mug gives you a good idea of the design of the line, with the fun font and a general vibe that reminds me a bit of 50′s Prime Time Cafe. Happy Holidays mug These small trays are cute as buttons, featuring Tinker Bell, Mickey, or Minnie. Small tray assortment Or the whole trio is featured on the large Holiday tray. The retro theme really comes to life on the medium-sized tray. The old school bubble lights and Mickey Christmas ornaments are super fun! Large and Medium Holiday trays Here’s a shot of all the trays together, just to distinguish the sizes. Tray assortment And each one includes the “Happy Holidays” inscription on the bottom. Happy Holidays! Planning to whip up some holiday cookies? This apron features that same retro ornaments design on a white background. Holiday apron Pattern close up If you do plan to share any of those cookies with Santa, this plate and mug set will be just the thing to set them out on. Milk and Cookies plate and mug set Cookies for Santa plate Milk for Santa mug The cookies might butter him up just enough to leave a little extra something in this Holiday Stocking . Holiday stocking Speaking of butter… Mickey and Minnie adorn the tops of this Spreader Set. Spreader Set And who doesn’t want to spend the holidays with Mickey and Minnie Mouse ? Mickey Plush Minnie Plush So, I guess this means shopping season is officially on! And, for the record, that means making-your-own-list-for-Santa season is here, too . Don’t Miss Out on Any Disney Holiday Fun!We’ve been hard at work, updating the DFB Guide to the Walt Disney World Holidays, 2014 e-Book with all the latest holiday tips and brand new info you NEED to know before you hit the parks this November, December, and January! With 310 pages of detailed information and multiple bonus extras, it WILL save you time and money during the busiest season in Walt Disney World! And it’s here just in time! And since we want you to save some cash right NOW, we have a special discount for DFB readers (as always!). Get the brand new guide for $3 off the regular purchase price for a limited time! How? Use code JINGLE at the check-out. The DFB Guide to the Walt Disney World Holidays 2014 e-Book features 310 pages of all the info you need to know (and not JUST food!) before you head to Walt Disney World for the holiday season, including NEW events and holiday happenings, plus over 250 photos. Don’t forget to pick up your copy for a $3 off using code JINGLE at the check-out! Happy holidays from all of us here at DFB. Now let’s hear from you! What do you think of the Holiday for Your Home Collection? Please let us know with a comment! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com!Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on TwitterBecome a Facebook Fan Related posts: Disney Food Blog e-Book Gift Certificates = Perfect Holiday Gift!Disney Holiday Gift Guide 2013: Holiday Treats with the Kids!Disney Holiday Gift Guide 2013: Setting Your Holiday Table With a Touch of Disney! View the full article

On Friday night, we kicked off our special Disney Side live video series for the holidays with a “must-see” from the Walt Disney World Resort – “A Frozen Holiday Wish.” If you missed it live, we’re sharing a chance to see it again this weekend. Thank you for checking out our first in a series of live stream events this holiday season. Of course, “A Frozen Holiday Wish” is best experienced in person at Magic Kingdom Park – shows are now being presented nightly through December 31, 2014. Check back next week for our next live stream from the Walt Disney World Resort. Video: ‘A Frozen Holiday Wish’ at Magic Kingdom Park by Thomas Smith: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

I recently joined my teammates and fellow VoluntEARS, representatives from American Heart Association (AHA) and Walt Disney Elementary School teachers, students and parents to build the first AHA Teaching Garden in Anaheim, Calif., funded by the Disneyland Resort. Developed using AHA science and nutrition guidelines, as well as information shared by gardening and education experts, the garden is a learning laboratory where students plant seeds, nurture growing plants, harvest produce and, in the process, learn the value of healthy eating. Some of us built planter boxes and planted herbs and vegetables, while others painted a mural, rocks and trash cans to beautify the garden. In just a few hours, we created a great new space where parents will continue to work alongside teachers and students to sustain the garden for at least three years, with supplies provided by the Disneyland Resort. GalleryDisney VoluntEARS, American Heart Association and Walt Disney Elementary School Build First Teaching Garden in Anaheim view allI am so proud to have been a part of this effort and make a difference for the community at Walt Disney Elementary School. See the posts below for more Disney VoluntEARS events: Central Florida Disney VoluntEARS Take Wellness to Heart at AHA Walk Disney VoluntEARS Celebrate 2.5 million Back-to-School Donations with Day of Service at A Gift For Teaching Disney VoluntEARS Around the Globe Bring Happiness to Kids During the Holidays Disney VoluntEARS, American Heart Association and Walt Disney Elementary School Build First Teaching Garden in Anaheim by Melanie Vogel: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights, a favorite holiday offering among many of our park guests, returns to Disney’s Hollywood Studios tonight. This annual holiday offering, which illuminates the Streets of America with millions of dancing lights, animated displays, 3-D effects, and falling snow will take place through January 4, 2015. Tell us in the comments section – is this one of your favorite holiday sights to see at Walt Disney World Resort? Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights Returns Tonight at Disney’s Hollywood Studios by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Everyone is buzzing about the heartwarming adventure film, “Big Hero 6,” in theaters today. To celebrate, we created a series of “Big Hero 6” themed recipes you’ll see over the next few weeks inspired by Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. Today, we’re excited to share Honey Lemon’s Honeybee Cupcakes, inspired by Hungry Bear Restaurant in Disneyland park. Whether you choose to decorate your cupcakes to look like Baymax or with bumblebees — bee-lieve me, they make the perfect post-movie treat. Honey Lemon’s Honeybee Cupcakes Inspired by Hungry Bear Restaurant at Disneyland Park by Rachel Brent: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Epcot Food and Wine Festival fans always anticipate the announcement of the Culinary Demonstrations: low-cost events where guests can enjoy presentations by a Disney or celebrity chef. Food and Wine Festival demonstration kitchen This year, I took the opportunity to purchase a $15 ticket to see Chef Gale Gand: pastry chef, author of cookbooks, 8-year host of the Food Network’s “Sweet Dreams,” as well as a founding partner of the restaurant Tru in Chicago (among a bajillion other accomplishments!). I chose Chef Gand’s session because I love to bake. But I still consider myself a novice with just a few trusty recipes under my belt, and I don’t tend to stray from those. So, I was interested to find out upon arrival that Chef Gand would be sharing her recipe for Salted Caramel Brownies with those of us in the audience. Before Chef Gand came to the stage, we enjoyed a presentation by a Master Sommelier who spoke about the choice of wine that we would enjoy with Chef Gand’s creation. Master Sommelier It really was interesting to hear him speak about the incredibly intense learning and examination process that it takes to become a Master Sommelier. But even with his depth of knowledge and expertise, I was happy to hear him share his favorite piece of advice when it comes to wine selection: “Drink what you like, when you like, with whom you like.” Works for me! Viognier from Cambria Winery In this case, what we were drinking was the Tepusquet Vineyard Viognier from the Cambria Winery. Our Master Sommelier led us through the process of picking up the tropical, fruity notes in the aroma, and the floral notes in the flavor. I can’t claim to have picked up on all that on my own ;). As someone who prefers white wines over red, I can just say I enjoyed the glass. When Chef Gale Gand arrived on stage, she greeted the audience with a smile and immediately continued in the personable, light-hearted tone set by the Sommelier. Chef Gale Gand She also greeted us with a surprise: today, she would be demonstrating two recipes. Even though this was a pastry demonstration, Chef Gand started with a quick recipe of a unique and easy take on a traditional chick pea hummus using frozen peas, garlic, mint, and olive oil to create a Pea and Garlic Dip that maintains its vivid color and flavor for at least 4 days in the refrigerator. (The culinary demonstrations are also presented on screens so everyone can watch the chef’s techniques.) Making Pea and Garlic Dip She kindly brought enough to share ;). Pea and Garlic Dip on a cracker But next it was time for the main event: the Salted Caramel Brownies. Chef Gand demonstrated the entire process, beginning with melting unsweetened chocolate and unsalted butter together for the cocoa base. While this can certainly be done in a microwave, Chef Gand said she prefers using a double broiler, simply for the fun of watching it melt! Chef Gale Gand After the addition of sugar, eggs, and flour, it was time to add the ingredient that really gives these brownies a nice little “wow” factor: bits of chewy caramel pieces (which was especially fitting, since Chef Gand had just made her first ever visit to the Germany Pavilion’s Karamell-Küche that very day). Adding ingredients Werther’s Chewy Caramel And with a sprinkling of sea salt over the top, here is the end result: the Salted Caramel Brownie. Salted Caramel Brownie Can you see the touch of caramel peeking our from the bottom right corner? What’s really cool about this dessert is that it appears pretty basic to the eye. But each time you bite into one of the chewy caramel “surprises” tucked in the brownie, it really delivers a burst of buttery flavor along with a variation in texture from the dense brownie to the gooey caramel. It’s a fun twist on a basic brownie that’s totally do-able. I have to admit to some preconceived notions that I held before attending the demo. I assumed I would enjoy watching a master chef — and I did. Chef Gand was full of fun, and her passion for great food came through in everything she shared. But I hadn’t expected to walk away with a recipe I really could make myself. Yes, I know that’s the point of the whole thing ;), but I walked in assuming everyone around me in the audience likely had a lot more kitchen experience than I. All truths told, I’ve never made brownies that aren’t from a boxed mix, but I will definitely give these a try from my own home, from scratch. If you are interested in giving them a try, too, here is the recipe. Salted Caramel Brownies recipe From what I could gather, this seems to be Gale Gand’s M.O. — approachable, tasty recipes that are still special creations. Gale Gand with new “Lunch!” Cookbook And with that, it’s off to the kitchen… I’ve got some brownies to bake ! Have you attended a culinary demonstration during the Food and Wine Festival? Please let us know about your experience with a comment! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com!Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on TwitterBecome a Facebook Fan Related posts: Guest Review: Chef Robert Irvine Culinary Demo at Epcot Food & Wine FestivalReview: Cake Boss Buddy Valastro’s Culinary Demo at the Epcot Food and Wine FestivalEpcot Food & Wine Festival Review: Chef Ming Tsai Cooking Demo View the full article

It’s almost here! The most wonderful time of the year is here, November 13, with the return of Holidays at the Disneyland Resort. Through January 6, 2015, the Happiest Place on Earth will get merrier … and yes, even more frozen. Fans of Disney’s “Frozen” will especially love this holiday season, as even more touches inspired by the animated film are woven into the celebration. First, stars Anna and Elsa will be featured in A Christmas Fantasy Parade each day at Disneyland park. Also, over at Disney California Adventure park, more songs from the hit soundtrack have been added to “World of Color – Winter Dreams” for the show’s second season. And returning this year is Olaf’s Frozen Ice Rink, which will return this year as part of the Downtown Disney Winter Village. And that’s not all that’s new this year. Jingle Jangle Jamboree in Frontierland will host an all-new comedy and music show that invites guests to sing along in a wacky tale of Christmas in the West. Here’s a look at this year’s returning favorites: Disneyland Park Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle“Believe … in Holiday Magic” fireworks A Christmas Fantasy Parade “it’s a small world” HolidayHaunted Mansion HolidayJingle CruiseJingle Jangle Jamboree“Holiday Time at the Disneyland Resort” guided tourDisney California Adventure Park “World of Color – Winter Dreams”Disney ¡Viva Navidad! (featuring Three Kings Day celebration, January 2-6, 2015)Downtown Disney District Downtown Disney Winter Village, featuring Olaf’s Frozen Ice RinkHolidays at the Disneyland Resort Begins November 13 with ‘Frozen’ Additions and Returning Favorites by Erin Glover: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Guests visiting Walt Disney World Resort can now have some Disney animation added to their memories and it is all part of Memory Maker! When visiting one of the locations listed below, simply ask a Disney PhotoPass Photographer for an Animated Magic Shot. Epcot, behind Spaceship EarthDisney’s Hollywood Studios, Hollywood BoulevardEpcot, at Norway PavilionDisney’s Animal Kingdom, bridge near Expedition EverestWhen you visit MyDisneyPhotoPass.com you’ll be surprised to find that we have applied animation to your photo featuring a Disney character. As part of your Memory Maker entitlement you’ll be able to download the video file of your Animated Magic Shot to post online and share with friends. Also, be on the lookout for special Animated Magic Shots coming this holiday season to Magic Kingdom Park and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party nights. I’ll share a sneak peek of those with you soon. New Animated Magic Shots Add Extra Disney Magic to Your Photos by Marie Quintero: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article