This post may contain affiliate links which means I may receive a small commission for purchases made through these links. I promise I will only recommend products that I have personally used! Thank you for supporting our blog so we can continue creating free content each week! Learn more on our Privacy Policy page.
Visiting Gideon’s Bakehouse at Disney Springs
If you plan to visit Disney Springs, one of the most buzzworthy spots to check out is Gideon’s Bakehouse. Mark and I are not physically capable of going to Disney Springs without picking up something from Gideon’s, and we have even started bringing our own cooler for the car to keep it safe for the trip! Gideon’s is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth, known for its indulgent half-pound cookies, over-the-top cakes, and a dark, gothic ambiance. Here’s everything you need to know for this must do Disney Springs spot:
The History and Atmosphere
Gideon’s Bakehouse started as a small bakery in Orlando, but it quickly gained a cult following, leading to its much-anticipated location in Disney Springs. Stepping into Gideon’s feels like entering a Victorian-era bookstore with a dash of Tim Burton-esque whimsy. The dim lighting, towering bookshelves, and vintage décor add to the mysterious, slightly eerie vibe that contrasts with the bright and bustling Disney Springs.
Don’t want to miss a single blog post from us? Sign up for our email list and be notified every time we make a new post!
Getting There Early: The Queue Experience
Gideon’s Bakehouse is incredibly popular, and lines can get long. Expect a wait, especially during peak times. The bakehouse operates with a virtual queue system on busy days, which allows you to explore Disney Springs while waiting for your spot in line. Pro Tip: Arrive at Disney Springs early, ideally before the shop opens, to minimize your wait time. If you’re there after the opening rush, sign up for the virtual queue if it’s available and use the waiting time to enjoy nearby shops and attractions.
The Menu: Cookies, Cakes, and More
The star of the show at Gideon’s is undoubtedly their half-pound cookies. Each cookie is rich, dense, and loaded with toppings. They also create a special new menu with rotating flavors every month. We love to collect the fantastically designed monthly menus. Popular flavors include:
- Original Chocolate Chip: Loaded with chocolate chips and topped with a sprinkle of sea salt.
- Peanut Butter Crunch: Perfect for peanut butter lovers with a generous amount of crunchy peanut butter pieces.
- Coffee Cake Cookie: This cookie is only available in the morning. It is a delicious blend of cinnamon and sugar with a hint of coffee.
In addition to cookies, Gideon’s also offers decadent slices of cake. The cake flavors rotate, but you can expect options like the indulgent True Red Velvet or the Chocolate Everything Cake. Pair your treat with one of their unique iced coffees, such as Mark’s favorite – the Peanut Butter Cold Brew.
Peanut Butter Cold Brew Pro Tip: Ask for it with NO ice, and you’ll get more of it. Plus, you can save it for the next day and add ice to it at your resort for a morning boost!
Pro Tip: If you visit during a holiday or special event, watch for limited-time offerings. Gideon’s is known for its seasonal cookies and cakes, which are only temporarily available.
The Must-Try: The Original Chocolate Chip Cookie
If you can only try one thing at Gideon’s, make it the Original Chocolate Chip Cookie. It’s the cookie that started it all, with a soft and chewy interior, a crispy exterior, and a perfect balance of sweet and salty. It’s absolutely my favorite, and I get it every single time!
The Experience: Beyond the Treats
Part of the charm of Gideon’s is the overall experience. While the wait can be long, the anticipation only adds to the excitement. The gothic-themed interior and attentive staff make the experience feel special, and you’ll likely leave with more treats than you planned because it’s so hard to choose just one!
A Sweet Souvenir
Gideon’s cookies and cakes make excellent souvenirs if you can actually resist eating them immediately. The cookies are individually wrapped and stay fresh for a few days, so they’re perfect for taking home or enjoying later during your Disney trip.
They also sell tumblers, candles that smell just like the store, stickers, and other assorted items seasonally.
Final Tips for Visiting Gideon’s Bakehouse
- Be Prepared to Wait: Gideon’s is popular even with a virtual queue, so patience is key.
- Morning Visit for Exclusive Treats: If you’re an early riser, aim for a morning visit to snag the Coffee Cake Cookie and enjoy shorter lines.
- Order Extras: Since you may not want to brave the lines twice, consider ordering a variety of cookies and cakes to enjoy throughout your trip.
- Pair with Coffee: Gideon’s cold brews are the perfect match for their decadent, sweet treats, so make sure to take advantage of the drinks menu.
Gideon’s Bakehouse is more than just a bakery; it’s an experience. Whether a local or a Disney traveler, visiting Gideon’s at Disney Springs is worth the effort for the unforgettable cookies, unique atmosphere, and the chance to indulge in one of Disney’s most popular sweet spots.
Bonus Location
Gideon’s Bakehouse originally started in Orlando, with its first location at the East End Market, a trendy food hall located in the Audubon Park Garden District. This smaller, original location opened in 2016 and quickly became popular due to its unique cookies and cakes. Unlike the more dramatic, gothic-themed Disney Springs location, the East End Market location has a more cozy, local bakery vibe. It’s part of a community market filled with artisan vendors, making it a great spot to explore and find unique local products.
If you’re a true Gideon’s fan, visiting both locations can give you a fuller experience of what the bakery has to offer. Whether you’re craving a classic cookie or something more unique, Gideon’s Bakehouse has something to satisfy every sweet tooth. So plan your visit, embrace the wait, and prepare for a cookie experience like no other!
Join our Monthly email list and help us grow! We promise you will only receive beautiful photos, updates, and probably a cute cat photo or two in your inbox!
I think I just gained a pound looking at the photo of that cookie! I have got to check them out in December.