Gala Retail has as soon as once more teamed up with Virgin Media Television to launch the 2026 seek for Ireland’s Best Baker and Junior Baker of the Year.
Following the success of final 12 months’s competitors, which noticed a whole bunch of entries from gifted bakers throughout the nation, the 2026 search guarantees to be even greater.
The most artistic bakers can have the possibility to shine on the nationwide stage, win a share of €2,500 in money prizes and the chance to function on Ireland AM.
A stay bake-off last will happen on 28 May, the place meals author and baking professional Catherine Leyden and TV presenter Cassie Stokes will decide the ultimate bakes.
The 2026 competitors is supported by O’Brien Ingredients, Ireland’s main bakery elements provider, with over 60 years of experience supporting bakers throughout the island of Ireland.
‘A True Celebration Of Community Spirit And Baking Talent’
Commenting on the return of the competitors, CEO of Gala Retail, Gary Desmond, stated, “Last 12 months’s competitors exceeded all expectations, with a exceptional normal of entries from kitchens proper throughout Ireland.
“It was a real celebration of neighborhood spirit and baking expertise, and we’re delighted to be bringing it again for 2026.
“From final 12 months’s winner, Mary Buckley, a grandmother from Cork, to distinctive bakes like junior baker Leah Mallingson’s vanilla cupcakes, the standard spoke for itself.
“Gala shops are on the coronary heart of native communities, and this initiative offers folks of all ages a nationwide platform to showcase their creativity and fervour for baking.
“We’re looking forward to seeing what this year’s entrants bring to the table.”
Client options supervisor at Virgin Media Television, Rachel Grant, added, “We’re thrilled to proceed our partnership with Gala Retail for the 2026 search.
“The response final 12 months confirmed simply how various and passionate Ireland’s baking neighborhood is, and we’re excited to assist share these tales as soon as once more.
“Through Ireland AM and across our platforms, we’ll be shining a light on the finalists, their bakes and the talent that exists in every corner of the country.”
The Competition
Virgin Media Television will promote the competitors, with the bake-off occasion filmed for Ireland AM.
To enter, contributors should submit their recipe and a photograph or video of their bake.
Entries have to be one in all six classes: cupcakes, muffins, scones, breads, tarts or traybakes.
This 12 months, the general finest baker will take residence €1,500, whereas the Junior Baker of the Year (aged 12-16) will likely be awarded €1,000.
Entries shut Sunday 10 May, with finalists introduced shortly after.
More particulars and phrases and circumstances can be found at www.gala.ie/bestbaker.
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