Ep 12. Candy Rock Bottom

In the twelfth episode of season one of Chopped Junior, titled "Candy Rock Bottom," young aspiring chefs go head-to-head in a competition featuring candy-themed ingredients. Hosted by Ted Allen, the competition requires the junior chefs to create appetizers, entrees, and desserts using a variety of candy-based ingredients.

The episode begins with Ted Allen revealing the four mystery ingredients that the contestants must use in their appetizers: cotton candy, peanut butter cups, caramel, and corn flakes. With only 30 minutes on the clock, the junior chefs set to work, using their creativity and culinary skills to transform the sugary ingredients into unique and delicious appetizers.

After the appetizer round, the judges – including Chris Santos, Alex Guarnaschelli, and guest judge Zac Young – send one contestant home based on their performance. The remaining three contestants move on to the entree round, where the mystery ingredients are revealed to be rock candy, gummies, fish sauce, and ground turkey.

The junior chefs have just 30 minutes to create a savory dish using the unlikely combination of candy and ground turkey. As the contestants rush to create their entrees, the judges keep a watchful eye on their techniques and take note of any mistakes or missteps.

Finally, with two contestants left, the dessert round begins, with the mystery ingredients consisting of jelly beans, grapefruit, figs, and cream cheese. The young chefs must use their imagination and skill to create a dessert that incorporates these candy-inspired ingredients in a harmonious and flavorful way.

As the time runs out, the judges taste each dessert and deliberate on their decision. Only one junior chef can emerge victorious and take home the coveted title of Chopped Junior champion.

Overall, "Candy Rock Bottom" is a highly entertaining and engaging episode of Chopped Junior, featuring exciting challenges and impressive culinary skills from the young contestants. With a candy-themed twist, this episode is sure to delight viewers of all ages and keep them on the edge of their seats until the very end.