The Sweet Story of Disney’s Candy Cauldron at Disney Springs. If the sweet scent of chocolate and sugar lures you into Disney Springs, you’ll find yourself at the Candy Cauldron. Since 1997, this dungeon-themed shop has been casting a spell on guests, paying tribute to a classic villain: the Evil Queen from Snow White. But beyond the dark decor lies a surprisingly heartwarming story centered on one iconic treat: the Disney candy apple.
Candy and caramel apples have been a staple at Walt Disney World since the early 1970s. They quickly became a fan-favorite, not just for their sweet taste but because guests could watch them being made—a bit of live magic. Over the decades, Disney artisans transformed simple apples into edible art, creating specialty apples for characters and holidays.
One of the most famous is the Evil Queen Apple, introduced around the mid-2000s as a seasonal Halloween treat. It mimics the cursed fruit from Snow White with its glossy red candy shell and a distinct green “drip.” It’s still one of the most sought-after treats every fall, alongside the popular Evil Queen cake pop.
The magic you see through the shop window—the real-time dipping and decorating of apples—is done by dedicated cast members, including a mother-son duo.
Joanne has worked at Walt Disney World for over 30 years and spent much of that time at the Candy Cauldron, eventually mastering the art of the candy apple.
“The key to making perfect candy apples: it takes a lot of practice,” she says, emphasizing the craftsmanship she passes on as a mentor.
One of her students was her own son, Pedro, who joined the team as a seasonal hire in 2010 while still in high school. “She was a great teacher,” Pedro notes, crediting his mom for teaching him the trade with a “very particular” focus on perfection.
Pedro’s foundation in candy-making and guest service under his mother’s guidance led him to a career in Disney leadership, including a role at the 2019 opening of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Their shared story is one of many at the Cauldron, where generations of cast members pass on the skills and joy of creating a Disney classic.
The Candy Cauldron remains a must-visit spot at Disney Springs, offering everything from the classic caramel apple to seasonal creations inspired by characters like Olaf and Jack Skellington. Whether you crave a specialty apple, a crisped rice treat, or cotton candy, there’s a sweet, unforgettable treat waiting for you.
