Ep 1. Christmas Vacation

On the first episode of Christmas Cookie Challenge season 2, contestants are faced with the challenge of creating holiday cookies inspired by their favorite Christmas vacation spots. The competitors will have to put their baking skills to the test to impress the judges and move on to the next round.

Host Eddie Jackson welcomes the contestants to the kitchen and introduces the judges for this episode: Ree Drummond, Aarti Sequeira, and Dan Langan. The competitors have two hours to complete their cookie creations, which must be both visually appealing and delicious.

As the baking begins, tensions rise as contestants try to perfect their recipes while also managing their time wisely. Some competitors take a more traditional approach, drawing inspiration from classic holiday destinations like the North Pole or Santa's Workshop. Others get more creative, basing their designs on tropical locations or winter wonderlands.

One contestant runs into trouble early on, as their cookie dough fails to come together properly. Another struggles to get their frosting just right, worrying that it won't be sweet enough to impress the judges.

As the clock ticks down, contestants start rushing to finish their cookies before time runs out. With just minutes left, some struggle to put the finishing touches on their creations, while others have already packed up their cookies and are nervously waiting for the judges to taste them.

Finally, it's time for the judges to sample the cookies and deliver their verdicts. One contestant's cookie is praised for its unique flavor combinations, while another is criticized for being too simple. The judges also take into account the appearance and presentation of each cookie, adding an extra layer of pressure for the competitors.

After a tense deliberation, the judges reveal which contestants will move on to the next round and which will be sent home. Tears are shed as one competitor is eliminated, while others breathe a sigh of relief at making it through to the next episode.

Overall, the premiere episode of Christmas Cookie Challenge season 2 offers plenty of holiday cheer and intense baking competition. Viewers are sure to be entertained by the creativity and skill of the contestants as they create delicious and festive cookies inspired by their favorite Christmas vacation spots.