Vegan Cupcake - Erin McKenna’s

Image: Erin McKenna's

Bear with me here, for a second. Yes, I know — it says “vegan.” But, there’s something of a misconception about veganism: Just because something is vegan doesn’t mean it tastes bad. Sugar is vegan! Strawberries are vegan! Chocolate can be vegan!

Are vegan foods ordinarily healthier than non-vegan foods? It depends — but you have every right to tell yourself they are when you bite into a delicious cupcake from the all-vegan bakery Erin McKenna’s at Disney Springs.

For those of you who are skeptical, I can assure you that these cupcakes taste absolutely divine, and are as moist and flavorful as any non-vegan treat. They are among the best cupcakes I’ve ever had, in part because they aren’t quite as sweet as many others you find at more famous cupcake bakeries. The frosting doesn’t get sickening, and it combines with the cake in a more elegant way than you might be used to with cupcakes.

That said, if you have one and still long for a non-vegan cupcake when you’re finished, Sprinkles is just down the block.

Ohana Bread Pudding - Tambu Lounge

Image: edrussell, Flickr (license)

Ohana’s bread pudding is among the most famous desserts in all of Walt Disney World. It has a passionate fan base that rivals even that of Disney’s films. But, since it’s offered at one of the most notoriously difficult restaurants to get into, it tends to be viewed as something of a special treat.

Well, here’s some good news: You don’t have to go to Ohana to actually get the bread pudding. If you head to the Tambu Lounge at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort after your day at the Magic Kingdom (or Epcot, if you’re really feeling adventurous), you can order this incredible dish without needing a reservation. It is, quite honestly, the best impulse buy on property.

This is, arguably, the heaviest dessert on this list, however, so do keep that in mind if you aren’t staying at the Polynesian. You won’t want to be running for a monorail or bus after a day at the parks and a massive order of this amazing bread pudding.

Dole Whip — Pineapple Lanai

Image: aloha75, Flickr (license)

Picture yourself sitting on the beach beside the Seven Seas Lagoon at night, looking out over the water at Disney’s Contemporary Resort glimmering in the distance, or at a dramatically-lit Cinderella’s Castle peeking out over the Main Street Railroad Station. Picture the cool evening air, the distant sound of Polynesian background music and chit chat floating across the slightly-too-humid air.

Imagine the sounds of water lapping up on the fenced-off beach, with tiki torches guiding a path back to your room. Think of your tired legs after exploring Disney’s Animal Kingdom, or Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Think of your sore muscles after a day at Typhoon Lagoon. Close your eyes, and remember how peaceful that setting can be.

It’s a nice image, right?

Now, add a Dole Whip from the Pineapple Lanai.

Yeah, I think it’s time to book another trip.