Vampire Penguin Unveils an Exquisite Trio of Delights: Shaved Snow, Donuts, and Sweet Treats

Vampire Penguin is the newest, and most delicious way to keep cool and indulge in all things sweet in Bradenton. Offering an array of made-from-scratch items to please the palates of everyone in the family from kids to grandparents, Vampire Penguin serves delicious sweets, pastries, and shaved snow desserts. Family owned and operated by the same owners of Uncle Nick’s Bagels, Vampire Penguin offers shaved snow (more on that later), freshly made donuts, NY Juniors cheesecake, brownies, cinnamon rolls, muffins, cookies, crumb cakes as well as a variety of craft coffees. Located next door to Uncle Nick’s Bagels, at 5917 Manatee Avenue, Suite 301, Bradenton, Vampire Penguin is open Thursday – Monday 7:00 am – 9:00 pm, 7:00 am – 1:30 Wednesdays and closed on Tuesdays.

So back to – What is shaved snow? Great question!

First and foremost, shaved snow is not a snow cone nor is it ice cream. It is difficult to describe because it is unlike anything else, just like the unbelievable Vampire Penguin that serves as the company’s mascot and namesake brand. You really have to experience it to fully understand and enjoy it.

Taking inspiration from the flaky lightness of snowflakes, these shaved snow creations melt on the tongue, leaving behind a delightful and unexpected flavor experience. Unlike a snow cone, which is simply shaved ice topped with flavored syrupy liquid or ice cream that is hard and heavy, shaved snow is airy, light, and fluffy.

There are currently sixteen different shaved snow dessert creations to choose from like the Chocolate Cream Pie, Strawberry Cheesecake, Dulce de Leche, Charming Taro, Orange Dreamsicle or Smoreos, just to name a few. There are four specialty creations and a flavor of the month. You can also order combinations ideal for sharing. Try the Banana Split, Fruity Festival or Neapolitan.

Making each of the different snows involves a multi-step process starting with a flavor base. The flavor base, which can be one of many different flavors based on what snow you order, is blended with ice, and set to freeze in a two-level process creating a fluffy texture reminiscent of newly fallen snow (native Floridians may not know what we are talking about here). When an order is placed, the frozen snow is shaved to create the base of the dessert. The mound of snow is finished with sauces and syrups, candied bits, whipped cream, and other delicious toppings that are unique to that specific creation. The result is a light, fluffy, and creamy dessert option that has less calories than ice cream. Many of the shaved snow desserts are gluten free and dairy free offering a guilt-free dessert option without sacrificing taste.

In addition to the shaved snow creations, Vampire Penguin is also the perfect place for made-fresh-daily donuts and pastries. The donuts are made in-house with top-quality ingredients, delicately crafted to perfection, and come in a wide variety of flavors, including glazed, Bavarian cream, maple glazed, peanut butter, toasted coconut, and strawberry filled plus many more.

Combinations and customized packages of bagels from Uncle Nick’s Bagels and Vampire Penguin donuts and pastries are available for events, corporate office meetings, open houses, morning networking events, school parties as well as family or group get togethers. Party platters and large orders placed by 1:00 pm can be picked up the next morning, freshly made. Vampire Penguin and Uncle Nick’s also offer catering and delivery.

And what would pastries and sweets be without a great cup of coffee? Vampire Penguin offers a variety of craft coffees like cappuccinos, lattes, Cuban coffees, specialty chais, espressos, and mochas with a variety of syrups. Locally owned Natalie’s Juices are also available.

“We are thrilled to introduce this exciting new dessert to the area,” says Craig Thomsen, owner of Uncle Nick’s NY Style Bagels, Subs & Deli and Vampire Penguin Shaved Snow and Desserts. “Our Shaved Snow, Donuts, and Desserts are crafted with love and passion from our family to yours. Each bite is a reflection of our commitment to creating moments of joy for each and every customer.”

Vampire Penguin invites the community to join in the celebration of flavors, textures, and unforgettable moments. With an unwavering commitment to quality and creativity, Vampire Penguin continues to redefine the dessert landscape.

Uncle Nick’s and Vampire Penguin are located at 5917 Manatee Avenue, Bradenton. For more information and to order from Uncle Nick’s call 941-567-4111 or visit  Uncle Nicks Bradenton. For information and to order from Vampire Penguin call 941-567-4111.

Photos from Caryn Hodge