Ep 1. Christmas In July

In the first episode of season 6 of "Holiday Baking Championship," titled "Christmas in July," ten talented bakers from across the country compete in a festive challenge to create delicious and visually stunning desserts inspired by all things Christmas.

Host Jesse Palmer and judges Nancy Fuller, Duff Goldman, and Carla Hall welcome the bakers to the competition and explain the first challenge: creating a sweet and savory dessert featuring traditional Christmas flavors like peppermint, gingerbread, and eggnog. The bakers have 90 minutes to whip up their creations, and they have access to an impressive pantry stocked with all sorts of ingredients to help them elevate their desserts.

As the contestants get to work, tensions run high in the kitchen as they all strive to make the perfect dish. Some bakers struggle with the balance between sweet and savory flavors, while others have difficulty getting their desserts to set properly. Judge Nancy Fuller encourages the bakers to take risks and be creative with their ingredients, reminding them that they're all here to showcase their unique baking talents.

After an intense judging session, the judges announce that Dwayne Ingraham's gingerbread and eggnog trifle has won the first challenge. Dwayne is thrilled to have his dessert praised by the judges and looks forward to the next challenge.

For the main challenge, the bakers must create a show-stopping dessert inspired by their favorite Christmas carol. They have four hours and access to an even bigger pantry to create their masterpieces.

Throughout the challenge, the bakers really get into the spirit of the competition and share their love for all things Christmas. Christina Olivarez, inspired by "Jingle Bells," creates a beautiful chocolate sleigh filled with a variety of delicious treats. Jude Tanega, inspired by "O Holy Night," creates a stunning cake covered in edible gold leaf and adorned with an intricate blown-sugar angel.

As time runs out, the bakers start presenting their desserts to the judges, who are blown away by the creativity and skill on display. Judge Carla Hall, impressed by the holiday spirit in the room, encourages the bakers to keep pushing themselves and reminds them that anything is possible with baking.

After a difficult judging session, the judges announce that Heather Walker's "Silent Night" dessert, featuring almond cake, pomegranate gelee, and a beautiful white chocolate tree, has won the main challenge. Heather is thrilled to have her dessert move her one step closer to the grand prize of $25,000.

The first episode of "Holiday Baking Championship" season 6 is a festive and fun-filled competition that showcases the amazing skills of ten talented bakers. The stakes are high as they compete to be named the best holiday baker, and viewers will be on the edge of their seats as they watch the contestants sweat it out in the kitchen in pursuit of their dreams.