The Benson Hotel’s Gingerbread Masterpiece

Photo courtesy of The Benson Hotel

The Benson Hotel is continuing its long-standing tradition of creating a gingerbread masterpiece for the holiday season. For the 52nd year, the historic Portland hotel is making a special gingerbread creation the centerpiece of its lobby. 

Here are details about the 2023 gingerbread masterpiece.

The Benson Hotel’s Gingerbread Masterpiece

In 2023, the historic hotel’s masterpiece features a giant replica of Neuschwanstein Castle, the beloved German castle that Walt Disney modeled his iconic castle after.

The gingerbread masterpiece is designed and built by architect and professional Pastry Chef David Diffendorfer, who has been the culinary mastermind behind The Benson’s display for three decades.  The Benson invites visitors to admire the architectural feat of the gingerbread castle’s dainty turrets, cylindrical towers and Romanesque features.

Each year, these creations are made entirely of confectionary delights, including more than 150 pounds of gingerbread, 50 pounds of marzipan, 20 pounds of chocolate, 10 pounds of Rice Krispies treats and buckets of royal icing.

Photo courtesy of The Benson Hotel

Also, The Benson Hotel’s lobby is a sight to be seen. The gingerbread display is accompanied by poinsettias, a 20-foot Douglas fir Christmas tree and festive trimmings.

The masterpiece will be on display through December 30.

Also, The Benson Hotel  invites you to give back this holiday season. Bring a new, unwrapped toy to support the annual Fox 12 Les Schwab Tire Centers Toy Drive. Toy donations can be dropped off at the hotel lobby through December 10.

The Benson Hotel is located at 309 SW Broadway in Portland. For more information, visit The Benson’s website.

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