Halloween Horror Nights, a time-honored celebration of all things eerie and spine-tingling, returns for its exhilarating 33rd edition at Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando Resort. This year, it not only thrills with haunted houses but also tantalizes taste buds with an array of adventurous culinary delights.
Alongside chilling attractions inspired by “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire” and “A Quiet Place,” Universal has introduced a selection of new gastronomic options designed to enhance the overall experience.
“From ‘Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire’ to ‘Slaughter Sinema 2,’ we consider food and beverage choices as an extension of the immersive storytelling that captivates our guests,” an official explained.
Here lies a glimpse into six enticing new offerings that invite guests to refuel between encounters with the supernatural.
1. Slimer’s Korean Corndog
Slimer’s Korean Corndog takes center stage, embodying the beloved “Ghostbusters” character with a quirky green flair. This carnival classic features a juicy hot dog enveloped in a batter mixed with “green derby cheese, creamy mozzarella, and a ghostly whisper of ghost pepper,” transforming a simple snack into an extraordinary delight.
Crowning this spooky delight are airy “cheesy corn puffs.” “Bring a Slimer-sized appetite,” the marketing team suggests, hinting at the fun awaiting foodies.
2. Pumpkin Guts
Amid the sea of indulgent treats, Pumpkin Guts emerges as a refreshing vegan choice for more health-conscious fans. It champions the integrity of seasonal flavors without overwhelming the palate.
On the plate, ribbons of butternut squash and zucchini resemble delicate “noodles” adorned with pumpkin seeds and a drizzle of vegan brown butter. Universal’s creative twist serves the dish inside a snug acorn squash, merging aesthetics with flavor.
3. Mini Stay-Puft S’more
The Mini Stay-Puft S’more taps into nostalgia, drawing upon the sweet innocence of childhood favorites. “We craft the marshmallows from scratch,” a team member proudly shares. This whimsical treat dazzles with a cheerful marshmallow shaped like the mini Stay-Puft Marshmallow Man.
The s’more features the classic combination of rich chocolate and crunchy graham crackers, invoking warm memories of cozy evenings spent by the campfire. “If you think Mini-Pufts are adorable enough to devour, here’s your chance,” they encourage guests.
4. Poison Apple
With culinary mischief at its core, the Poison Apple resembles a harmless caramel apple but indulges the adventurous spirit. “This sweet temptation is one worth going to great lengths for,” Universal’s representatives say with a gleam in their eyes.
Surprisingly, the dessert is a luscious caramel mousse, filled with crunchy Granny Smith apple chunks, and elegantly topped with chocolate cookie crumbs. Don’t forget the finishing touch—a cheeky gummy centipede that adds a playful nod to its charmingly ghastly theme.
5. Bride’s Cake
The Bride’s Cake pays homage to filmmaker James Whale’s classic horror story, “Bride of Frankenstein.” A whimsical nod to the legendary tale, this dessert artfully encapsulates the spirit of romance found in darkness.
This mini three-tiered cake sparkles with vibrant green vanilla frosting, enveloping a tart raspberry filling and lovingly coated with chocolate. The whipped topping atop evokes the soft elegance reminiscent of a wedding’s most cherished moments.
Día de los Muertos Shake
Día de los Muertos Shake honors the rich tapestry of Mexican culture with a delightful blend of flavors that commemorate the Day of the Dead. This unique creation features a chocolate chili ice cream base, shimmering with cinnamon streusel and crowned with a lovely edible marigold flower.
A chocolate sugar cookie skull adds a whimsical, albeit macabre, embellishment to the shake, echoing the festive spirit that surrounds this time of remembrance observed vividly throughout Latin America. This unique cocktail of flavors invites conversations, laughter, and sharing stories of those who have come before us.
Halloween Horror Nights continues its legacy with mesmerizing attractions and engrossing gastronomy on select evenings at both Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood, stretching into early November. Each visit is a chance to savor not just the flavors but the connection between culture, history, and hauntingly delightful experiences.
