Ep 1. Holiday Style

The highly anticipated seventh season of Holiday Baking Championship kicks off with Holiday Style, the first of eight episodes that will see ten talented bakers from across the country compete for a chance to win the $25,000 grand prize and the title of Holiday Baking Champion.

In this first episode, host Jesse Palmer welcomes the contestants to the Holiday Kitchen, a dazzling, winter wonderland set dressed in holiday décor, twinkling lights, and a giant Christmas tree that sets the festive tone for the competition. The bakers are dressed in their best holiday gear, with some wearing Santa hats, elf shoes, and glittery Christmas sweaters, all adding to the merry atmosphere of the show.

The stakes are high as the bakers are challenged to create two cookies and a signature holiday cake that embody the essence and flavor of the holiday season. They must draw inspiration from classic traditions and tastes, but also bring their own unique spin and creativity into each of their bakes. It's a tough task that requires both artistry and technical skills, as the judges will be scrutinizing every detail, from the flavors and textures to the presentation and execution.

The judges are the formidable trio of Nancy Fuller, Duff Goldman, and Carla Hall, all seasoned bakers and hosts who bring their own expertise and warmth to the show. Nancy is the queen of country-style baking, renowned for her hearty, comforting recipes that evoke the coziness of home; Duff is the king of elaborate and daring cakes, famous for his stunning designs and technical prowess; Carla is the queen of soul food, known for her bold and playful flavors that reflect her joyful personality.

As the bakers begin to work on their first challenge, tensions rise as they try to balance time management, creativity, and precision. Some struggle with the pressure, while others thrive on it, producing stunningly beautiful and delicious cookies that impress the judges. One baker creates a cookie that is a playful twist on a classic holiday treat, while another uses unconventional ingredients to bring a surprising flavor to their bake.

Next up is the signature cake challenge, which requires the bakers to create a grand and festive centerpiece that captures the holiday spirit. The bakers show off their skills in sugar work, fondant sculpting, and decorating, as they transform basic cake layers into works of art. One baker creates an impressive cake that is a tribute to the winter landscape, with snowflakes, icicles, and evergreens made of sugar; another creates a whimsical cake that features Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and his friends frolicking in the snow.

Throughout the episode, Jesse checks in with the bakers and offers words of encouragement and advice. He also engages them in fun and festive challenges, such as a cookie decorating contest and a round of holiday trivia that brings out their competitive spirit and good humor.

As the clock winds down, the bakers put the finishing touches on their bakes and present them to the judges, who taste and evaluate each one with serious scrutiny. They discuss the strengths and weaknesses of each bake, weighing the flavors, textures, and presentation against the expectations of the challenge. In the end, only one baker is crowned the winner of the Holiday Style episode, while one is sent home.

Holiday Baking Championship season 7 episode 1 is a delightful start to a season filled with heartwarming holiday treats, stunning bakes, and fierce competition. The bakers bring their A-game, the judges offer their expert opinions, and the host brings his signature charm. It's a treat for the eyes, the taste buds, and the spirit, and a perfect way to kick off the holiday season.