Ep 2. Traditions Turned Trendy

In season 1 episode 2 of Christmas Cookie Challenge, titled "Traditions Turned Trendy," the bakers are tasked with creating cookies that blend old-fashioned traditions with modern trends. The episode kicks off with host Eddie Jackson welcoming the contestants and introducing them to the judges: pastry chef and baker Ree Drummond, and the founder of NYC's renowned Milk Bar, Christina Tosi.

The first round is the "Signature Challenge," in which the bakers must whip up three dozen cookies that pay homage to their family's holiday traditions. The contestants delve into their backgrounds, sharing stories of their childhoods and the cookies they grew up making with their families.

As they get to work, the bakers employ a range of traditional ingredients, such as molasses, cinnamon, and ginger, while putting their own spin on classic recipes. One baker, for instance, opts to make a gingerbread dough with chai spices, while another incorporates pumpkin and quinoa into a classic oatmeal cookie. The judges sample each cookie and offer their critiques, praising the bakers' creativity and skill.

The second round is the "Technical Challenge," where the contestants are presented with a complicated recipe and given a limited amount of time to complete it. For this episode, the bakers are tasked with making three dozen hamantaschen cookies, a traditional Jewish treat typically served during Purim.

As the bakers begin to roll out the dough and shape the cookies, they run into various obstacles, including dough that is too crumbly or that won't hold its shape. The judges watch carefully as the bakers navigate these challenges, offering advice and observing their techniques.

Finally, it's time for the "Showstopper Challenge," in which the bakers must create a massive cookie display that showcases their newfound blend of old and new. The contestants get to work building elaborate displays that incorporate their own family traditions with innovative new flavors and designs.

One baker creates a stunning display of reindeer cookies, each with its own distinct personality and flair. Another builds a towering Christmas tree made entirely of gingerbread, complete with a canopy of sparkling sugar snowflakes.

Throughout the episode, we see the bakers face various obstacles, from time constraints to difficult doughs. But watching them overcome these challenges and come up with unique and delicious creations is what makes Christmas Cookie Challenge such an exhilarating, entertaining show. In "Traditions Turned Trendy," the bakers bring their A-game, and the result is a delightful, satisfying hour of television.