Each holiday season, magical (and edible!) gingerbread creations are made for the enjoyment of guests of many Walt Disney World resorts.

It takes thousands of hours to build the enormous gingerbread displays, along with countless cups of sugar and a whole lot of patience. And in addition to the displays, storefronts are devised (the ones at the Grand Floridian and in Epcot are inside the Gingerbread Houses) to sell holiday goodies.

Let’s take a look at the 2011 displays fashioned for the Grand Floridian and Contemporary Resorts. Thanks to my Dad who shot these photos just after Thanksgiving!

Contemporary Resort

It’s an enormous tree made from Gingerbread shingles in front of a Mary Blair-esque It’s A Small World facade.

I LOVE that his year’s gingerbread shingles are embossed with a golden Mickey! These are an awesome take-home souvenir!

But when a shingle isn’t enough, just get the whole house! Most gingerbread displays in Disney World will offer the option to purchase a decorated gingerbread house to take home.

Gingerbread Cupcake Ornaments! These absolutely beautiful pieces are selling for $8.50 at the Contemporary Resort. Even the wrapping is gorgeous!

Deck your tree with a Gingerbread Christmas Tree Ornament ($16.75) and pick up a bag of Assorted Cookies ($7.75) or Chocolate Peppermint Cookies ($4) for in-the-moment munching! Is that a white chocolate monorail? Cute stocking stuffer!

Grand Floridian Resort

Another resort that absolutely sparkles at Christmas is the Grand Floridian. As Disney’s flagship resort, it’s bound to pull off some fantastic feats. Just take a look at the 2011 Gingerbread House.

I love that this year’s house is accented with lighting under the eaves!

And check out the SMOKE coming from the chimney!!! Wonder what they’re baking in there? 😉

The details are overwhelming. It’s all sugar and spice! And yes, those are heart-shaped shingles around the rooftop!

Step in real close to truly appreciate the exquisite craftsmanship.

Next stop on our tour — the Store Front! Take a piece of gingerbread home with you. Each day, Cast Members sell their creations from inside the house.

The truth is that photos don’t really do these creations justice, though — hopefully you’ll be able to visit during the holiday season to see them yourself! Disney World has been making these gingerbread houses for over a decade, so chances are they’ll still be at it when you spend your first Christmas in Disney World!

Do you prefer the modern holiday display at the Contemporary or the old-fashioned, Victorian house at the Grand Floridian? Tell us in the comments below!