The 12 Days of Lakeland Holiday Treats
Greetings, festive friends and fellow Lakeland enthusiasts! As we approach the most wonderful time of the year, I'm thrilled to unveil a holiday journey like no other. Welcome to our "12 Days of Lakeland Holiday Treats" extravaganza, a merry celebration steeped in Lakeland's charm and the joyous spirit of the season.
Starting on December 13th, we'll embark on a daily exploration of local treats that make Lakeland truly magical. But that's not all – tucked within the tinsel and twinkling lights lies an extra special surprise: an exclusive Lakeland Gift Basket Giveaway!
To partake in this yuletide delight, subscribe to our newsletter and join the festive journey. Fear not, dear subscribers, for you're already in the running for this delightful Lakeland Gift Basket, curated with love and featuring treasures like the charming "My Little Mockingbird" book, Patriot Coffee's Holiday Blend, Heartland Snack Co.'s Sugar & Spice Candied Nuts, Color Theory Tea's Sweater Weather Herbal Tea Blend, We Jammin's Strawberry Habanero Jam, and a 2024 Lakeland Desk Calendar by Carroll Design Co. Who knows, I might even throw in some homemade gingerbread cookies from my grandma!
But wait, there's more merriment to be had! Spread the joy and gain extra entries by sharing our daily updates on your social media stories. Let the festive tales unfold, the treats tantalize, and the Lakeland magic enchant!
On the first day of holiday treats, my true love gave to me … The Cookie Catastrophe!
Dive into the sweetness of the season with Cookie Catastrophe's first-day delights! Indulge in Gourmet Cookies, festive Sugar Cookies, and the perfect blend of chocolate and peanut butter with Buckeyes. Get creative with Paint Your Own Cookies or embark on a tasty building adventure with Build Your Own Sugar Cookie Houses. Order your set of holiday treats from Cookie Catastrophe and elevate your festive feasting. Explore the options on their website and make this holiday season extra special.
On the second day of holiday treats, my true love gave to me … Zaza & Co.!
Welcome to the second day of our Lakeland holiday treat adventure, featuring the scrumptious delights from Zaza & Co.! Brace yourself for a taste bud extravaganza as we delve into the delightful world of Zaza's delectable creations.
First in the spotlight is the absolute showstopper, “The Gingie” – a gingerbread lover's dream come true! Topped with luscious white chocolate and adorned with mini gingerbread people sprinkles, this cookie is a festive masterpiece that captures the essence of the season. Trust me, if you adore gingerbread, this one's an absolute must-try.
But fear not, Zaza & Co. has something for everyone's sweet tooth. For a burst of holiday joy, indulge in the ever-popular “The Holiday Cheer,” a delightful mini sprinkle cookie that brings instant happiness with every bite. And introducing the new kid on the block, “The Coquito” – a mini brown sugar cookie glazed with a tempting coquito icing, promising a taste of tropical holiday bliss.
Of course, Zaza & Co. is bringing back favorites like “The Zaza” with its distinctive guava flavor and the classic “The Main” – a chocolate chip cookie that's a timeless delight. With Zaza's stellar lineup, you're in for a treat-filled journey that embodies the spirit of the season.
Hurry, treat enthusiasts! Check out Zaza & Co.'s website because these delightful creations are flying off the shelves, and the last day to order is tomorrow, December 15th. Don't miss out on this festive flavor fiesta!
On the third day of holiday treats, my true love gave to me… The Baking Brewer!
On the third day of Lakeland holiday treats, we're bringing you a unique and delightful combination from The Baking Brewer – because Santa deserves cookies and beer, too!
Starting December 21st, dive into the festive spirit with a box of decadent chocolate chunk cookies and a crowler of beer. The perfect pairing for a cozy holiday evening!
Find this delectable duo at Swan Brewing, Dissent Lakeland, Union Tap Room, Tidal Brewing Co, and Front Page Brewing Co starting December 21st. But why wait? Catch The Baking Brewer's delightful bakes early at Swan Brewing, Union Hall, and Blue Dog Craft BBQ throughout this week. And for a special treat, swing by the Night Market at Brew Hub on Friday.
Mark your calendars for a sweet surprise! Join us at Light Up Bonnet Springs on December 16th from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm to get your hands on these brewed-up bakes. Cheers to festive flavors and holiday cheer!
On the fourth day of holiday treats, my true love gave to me… Milk & Honey Macarons!
On the fourth day of Lakeland holiday treats, we're diving into the enchanting world of Milk & Honey Macarons, where every bite is a symphony of delightful flavors!
Indulge in the holiday magic with their festive flavor macarons, a lineup that reads like a sweet carol: Nutella, Hot Cocoa, Little Debbie, Sugar Cookie, Gingerbread, Peppermint White Chocolate, Eggnog, Milk & Cookies, Marshmallow Fluff, Raspberry Cream, Almond, and Milk Chocolate. With options this tempting, it's a true feast for the senses!
For the macaron lovers, treat yourself to a delightful 6-piece set for $20 or double the joy with a 12-piece assortment for $38. But that's not all – Milk & Honey's holiday cookie lineup is equally irresistible. From Brown Butter Chocolate Chip and White Chocolate Peppermint to Gingerbread and Hot Cocoa Cookie, there's a flavor for every cookie enthusiast. Single cookies are priced at $5 each, or you can elevate your indulgence with the "A Dash of Everything" Cookie Tin for $40.
Mark your calendars for December 23rd, as all orders can be picked up in Downtown Lakeland. Head to Milk & Honey's website to place your order and secure a box of holiday sweetness that's sure to make your festive celebrations extra special!
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On the fifth day of holiday treats, my true love gave to me… Meraki Bakehouse!
On the fifth day of Lakeland holiday treats, we're stepping into the enchanting world of Meraki Bakehouse, where holiday cheer comes in the form of delectable cookie boxes! This year, Meraki is turning your festive dreams into reality with carefully curated holiday cookie boxes, ensuring there's a delightful treat for everyone.
Indulge in the joyous variety that these boxes bring: 2 Large Chocolate Chip Cookies, 6 Snickerdoodles, 4 Chocolate Peppermint, 4 Gingerbread, and 4 Raspberry Strawberry Linzer Cookies (please note: contains almond flour). A symphony of flavors awaits, creating the perfect assortment for your holiday celebrations.
These heavenly holiday boxes are available for pickup on December 23rd at the Farmers Market, making it a seamless addition to your festive preparations. But remember, time is of the essence – orders will conclude on Tuesday, December 19th.
And that's not all! Meraki Bakehouse is spreading extra holiday cheer with additional offerings, including delightful apple pie and a gluten-free version of the cookie box. Treat your taste buds to the magic of Meraki this season!
On the sixth day of holiday treats, my true love gave to me… HappyFastDelicious!
On the sixth day of Lakeland treats, we're stepping into the vibrant world of HappyFastDelicious – where coffee is an art, and flavors are a celebration!
Meet Andrew, the purple-and-banana-loving maestro behind this delightful coffee haven. HappyFastDelicious is not just a place for a caffeine fix; it's an experience crafted with love and creativity.
Ordering is a breeze with their mobile app, offering personalized drinks tailored to your taste buds. What sets HappyFastDelicious apart is the collaboration between customers and baristas. Contribute your favorite drink, and when others savor your creation, rewards follow!
Meet the faces behind the brews and explore recommendations from your favorite baristas. Expect high-quality coffee, unexpected flavor combinations, and high-energy recipes that redefine your coffee experience. These aren't your average bitter brews – HappyFastDelicious brews differently, delivering more caffeine and fewer compromises.
Choose from dozens of the most flavorful flavors, including classic vanilla and a plethora of unexpected, adventurous, and limited-edition options. This holiday season, savor the festive spirit with special flavors like Spiced Brown Sugar, Gingerbread, and Candy Cane.
And mark your calendars for December 21st because HappyFastDelicious has a special treat waiting for you – your very own Santa Boot cup! Make your latte iced, hot, or blended with a flip of a switch and embrace the joy of HappyFastDelicious.
On the seventh day of holiday treats, my true love gave to me… Mike & Mike’s Desserts!
On the seventh day of Lakeland treats, we're savoring the sweet delights from Mike & Mike's Desserts – a haven for cupcakes that are not only school-friendly but a delicious choice for those with dietary restrictions or food allergies.
Crafted with the utmost care and using only the finest ingredients, Mike & Mike's Desserts promises a cupcake experience that doesn't compromise on flavor. From the soft, fluffy cake to the creamy frosting, each bite is a celebration of taste and texture!
What makes these cupcakes truly special is their dedication to being completely free from dairy and eggs, making them an ideal choice for those with sensitivity to dietary restrictions. Made with oat milk, Mike & Mike's Desserts offers three classic flavors: Vanilla Beanie, Chocolate Delight, and Strawberry 2-Step.
The story behind Mike & Mike's Desserts is rooted in a childhood spent in the kitchen, learning from mom as she crafted her signature red velvet cupcakes. Inspired by the joy and love that good food brings, Mike sought to share those delightful moments with others. Recognizing the challenges faced by friends and family with dietary restrictions, Mike & Mike's Desserts was born.
"We use intentional ingredients like oats and plant-based derivatives to bake them, so everyone can come to the table and enjoy," says Mike. These cupcakes aren't just a treat; they're a testament to inclusivity, flavor, and the joy of sharing delectable desserts with everyone around the table.
This holiday season, indulge in guilt-free sweetness that's perfect for those who have sensitivity to dairy, nuts, and eggs. Celebrate with Mike & Mike's Desserts and make every moment around the table a joyous one!
On the eighth day of holiday treats, my true love gave to me… Andrew Logan’s Artisan Chocolates & Confections!
On the eighth day of Lakeland Holiday Treats, we're indulging in the exquisite world of Andrew Logan's Artisan Chocolates & Confections – a culinary masterpiece where passion, flavor, and artistic presentation converge under the guidance of its visionary owner, Mark Sutton.
Mark's journey is more than a culinary venture; it's a heartfelt odyssey fueled by a profound love for food and an insatiable appetite for unique tastes. His narrative unfolds with the discovery of chocolate-making, a craft that seamlessly blends art and science. "I have always had a passion for food, but even more so for unique flavors and presentation," Mark shares, capturing the essence of his culinary pursuit and the desire to share something special with Lakeland.
For the holiday season, Andrew Logan's Artisan Chocolates & Confections joined Catapult's Holiday boxes, crafting nearly 300 pieces of delectable chocolate-covered toffee and over 50 boxes of mouthwatering peppermint bark. You can find Andrew Logan's at the Lakeland Curb Market, your go-to destination for all your holiday chocolate treats.
Savor the season with their new limited edition: Gingerbread Bonbon! White chocolate ganache infused with gingerbread spice and molasses, encased in rich dark chocolate. It's a symphony of festive flavors that captures the spirit of the holidays in every bite.
Indulge in the artistry of Andrew Logan's and make your holiday celebrations a sweet, sensory delight!
On the ninth day of holiday treats, my true love gave to me… Black & Brew Coffee House & Bistro!
Day 9 of Lakeland Holiday Treats brings the festive flavors of Black & Brew, where every sip is a celebration! Dive into their holiday menu, a symphony of delights crafted to make your season merry and bright.
Iced Salted Caramel Latte — Back for season 2, this fan-favorite combines the richness of espresso with the perfect balance of salty caramel and vanilla cold foam. A delightful cold treat to awaken your holiday spirits!
Classic Hot Chocolate — Crafted from scratch using premium Dutch cocoa, Black & Brew's hot chocolate is a timeless indulgence. Whether you go for the classic or opt for the seasonal Mexican Hot Chocolate, each sip is a journey into chocolatey bliss.
Santa’s Favorite Frappe — Because even Santa has a favorite! Naughty or nice, this frappe is for you. Pistachio syrup and crushed chocolate-covered toffee pieces dance with coffee, topped with whipped cream, and adorned with festive sprinkles. It's a treat straight from Santa's list!
The Shaken Espresso Coquito — Experience Black & Brew's spin on a classic Puerto Rican Beverage. Cream of coconut, milk, cinnamon, and espresso are shaken vigorously with ice, creating a creamy, dreamy, frothy PR-inspired delight. It's a sip of paradise in every cup!
Indulge in the magic of Black & Brew's holiday creations and make your moments richer, one sip at a time!
On the tenth day of holiday treats, my true love gave to me… MAYDAY Ice Cream!
On the tenth day of LKLD Holiday Treats, we're diving into the heartwarming story of Mayday Ice Cream, a tribute to the courageous Americans who served in World War II. Flying in the "Flying Fortress," these pilots turned freezing altitudes into an opportunity to make a precious treat: ice cream. Strapping buckets of cream and sugar into the gunner pod, they carried a taste of home to the front lines, creating a tradition of courage and optimism.
At Mayday Ice Cream, this legacy lives on as they blend authenticity with innovation, churning the best ingredients in fun new ways. Whether the skies are sunny or stormy, just scream MAYDAY and join them for some life-changing ice cream, all made right here in Florida with love!
Their holiday flavors are a delightful journey into seasonal indulgence:
Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie - Cozy brown butter ice cream filled with crisp chocolate chip cookies.
Datil Dark (GF) - Dark chocolate ice cream filled with cocoa nibs and datil peppers.
Marilla’s Raspberry Cordial (DF, GF) - A refreshing raspberry sorbet.
Yule Nog (21+) - Classic boozy eggnog stuffed with gingerbread!
Almond Butter Chocolate (DF, GF) - Chocolaty, almond butter goodness (*contains oats and nuts).
Kitchen Sink (DF) - A dairy-free vanilla swirled with pecans, rice puffs, dairy-free chocolate chips, and pretzels (*contains nuts).
North Polpermint (GF) - Festive peppermint ice cream made with fresh mint leaves and crushed peppermint.
Denali Postcard (GF) - Their version of rocky road with chunks of chocolate and toasted marshmallow (*contains nuts).
Indulge in the warmth of Mayday Ice Cream's real homemade creations, where each flavor is crafted with love to make hearts feel warm!
On the eleventh day of holiday treats, my true love gave to me… The Cookie Lady!
On the eleventh day of Lakeland Holiday Treats, we're stepping into the delightful world of The Cookie Lady, where each cookie tells a story of warmth, love, and a journey that began in the heart of a bustling restaurant kitchen.
Searie, the mastermind behind The Cookie Lady, embarked on her baking adventure by sharing the love of homemade cookies with her co-workers. Imagine a tray of warm, gooey cookies being passed around at the end of a long shift – the pure excitement and joy it brought were infectious. People couldn't get enough, and amidst the hustle of a restaurant kitchen, "The Cookie Lady" was born. A name bestowed upon her by one of her co-workers, perfectly encapsulating her newfound reputation as the purveyor of delightful, mouthwatering cookies.
This holiday season, The Cookie Lady is taking her artistry to new heights. Embracing the craft of decorating with royal icing, she has adorned her creations with festive charm. Picture Christmas trees, stockings, reindeer, Santa, and more – each cookie a canvas of creativity and a taste of the holiday spirit.
Indulge in the joyous creations of The Cookie Lady, where every bite is a testament to the warmth and love baked into each delightful treat.
On the twelfth day of holiday treats, my true love gave to me… some homemade cookies!
On the twelfth and final day of Lakeland Holiday Treats, we celebrate not just the delights of the season but the cherished holiday traditions that bring families together. Today, Christmas Eve, holds a special place in our hearts as we honor the diverse and heartwarming treat traditions of each family.
In the spirit of festive joy, let's delve into the heartfelt tradition of one family – my own. Every year, we gather for our cherished "Cookie Day" in the middle of December. It's a time-honored tradition where we transform our kitchen into a lively workshop, decorating as many gingerbread and sugar cookies as we can muster.
Now, they may not win any beauty contests, but oh, do they taste heavenly! The real magic lies in the laughter, the mess, and the memories made as we roll out dough, mix vibrant icings, and create edible masterpieces. It's a testament to the fact that the best part of the holiday season is how food and family seamlessly come together, crafting something sweet that goes beyond the taste buds.
As we share in the joy of our own family tradition, we invite you to reflect on the unique and heartwarming holiday treat traditions that make your family's celebrations truly special. May this day be filled with warmth, love, and the sweetest moments that become the treasured memories of a lifetime.