For those with a sweet tooth, the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival has plenty of desserts to sample, and several are gluten-free! As the festival celebrates its 30th anniversary, Disney is bringing back a number of beloved “legacy” dishes from years past, giving guests the opportunity to revisit some longtime favorites while exploring this year’s lineup.
Whether you prefer something rich and chocolatey, fruity and refreshing, or a little more savory, these are four of the best gluten-free desserts to look for around EPCOT’s World Showcase.
Swirled Showcase – Liquid Nitrogen Almond Truffle Mousse — $5.49
One of the most unique gluten-free desserts at the festival is the Liquid Nitrogen Almond Truffle Mousse at Swirled Showcase. This rich chocolate-and-almond dessert gets its signature texture from liquid nitrogen, creating a fun and dramatic festival treat. It’s also a 30th anniversary legacy item, having first been introduced in 2015 at the Chew Lab. Nearly a decade later, it’s back to give guests another chance to try one of the festival’s more memorable experimental desserts.
Hawaii – Pineapple Cheesecake with Passion Fruit Curd and Macadamia Nuts — $5.49
The Hawaii booth brings a tropical twist to cheesecake with its Pineapple Cheesecake topped with passion fruit curd and macadamia nuts. While it may look like a traditional sweet dessert, the combination can lean a little more savory and tangy than overly sweet. The tropical pineapple and passion fruit flavors help balance the richness of the cheesecake, while the macadamia nuts add a satisfying crunch. Not to mention, it’s an especially aesthetic dessert that makes for a great food photo-op!
Spain – Basque Cheesecake with Orange Sauce — $5.29
Located at the Spain booth between the Germany and Italy Pavilions, the Basque Cheesecake with Orange Sauce is one of my personal favorites. Cheesecake isn’t always gluten-free, so finding a festival version that fits the bill feels like a particularly special treat. The Basque-style cheesecake has that rich, slightly savory flavor you expect, while the orange sauce adds a bright kick of sweetness without overpowering the cake. It’s a great option for anyone who prefers a dessert that isn’t excessively sweet.
Australia – Mixed Berry Pavlova — $4.79
If you’re looking for something a little lighter, head to the Australia booth near Disney Traders for the Mixed Berry Pavlova. This dessert features a crunchy meringue shell topped with macerated berries and whipped cream. The crisp meringue provides a nice contrast to the soft, creamy topping, while the berries add a bright and refreshing flavor. It’s a particularly good choice after sampling some of the festival’s heavier savory dishes.
The Disney Parks app provides an allergy-friendly menu for many EPCOT Food & Wine Festival locations, making it easier to identify gluten-free options. However, menus and ingredients can change, and there is always a possibility of cross-contact during preparation. Guests with food allergies should always notify a Cast Member of their allergy when ordering so the kitchen can take the appropriate precautions.
From a legacy liquid nitrogen dessert to a classic cheesecake and fruity pavlova, there’s no shortage of ways to end your festival day on a sweet note. These four gluten-free desserts are worth adding to your list as you celebrate 30 years of the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival.
Photo: Disney.
Written by
Izi K
From hunting for Hidden Mickeys to trading pins with anyone who had a lanyard, Izi grew up finding joy in the little details of Walt Disney World. That love for the parks eventually led to roles as a Cast Member on both coasts – at Disneyland and across several teams in Florida. These days, you’ll often find Izi wandering Disney resorts, diving into bits of park history, or finding the perfect spot to relax and soak in the atmosphere in the parks.
