Baking Scraps

This week on Baking Scraps Lisa and Cristina are joined by the one and only Tina Zaccardi … winner of The Great American Baking Show: Holiday Edition Season 4!

This week's guest is as sweet as her bakes!

It's our one-year anniversary, and we're inviting you to pull up a chair at the kitchen table! In this special milestone episode of Baking Scraps, Lisa and Cristina take a heartfelt look back on the journey so far - sharing the bake that made us fall in love with baking; talking about how the idea for the podcast got started; and, yes, confessing our biggest “Baking Craps” (those unforgettable fails that taught us just as much as our successes!).We also open up about our personal lives, getting a little deeper than usual, as well as reflecting on how Baking Scraps has shaped us both on and off the podcast. Without a guest this time, we put ourselves in the hot seat for a lively round of “This or That,” revealing our quirky tastes and preferences in all things baking and beyond.We celebrate the incredible guests who've joined us over the past year and share which ones left the biggest impression…and even ask the big question: would we trade a shot at The Great Canadian Baking Show to keep this podcast going?Looking ahead, we share our hopes and dreams for the next year of Baking Scraps and beyond. Whether you've been with us from the first crumb or just stumbled upon us now, this is a warm, messy, and delicious celebration of all things baking, community, and friendship.So grab your apron (and maybe a cupcake) and join us — here's to many more years of sharing the sweet and the sticky with you!

This week on Baking Scraps, Lisa and Cristina are joined by the Sweet Elora Khanom, the Season 8 winner of The Great Canadian Baking Show. Almost a year to the day since she first stepped inside that iconic tent, Elora reflects on her whirlwind experience…from her love of mangos and all things pink to the technical challenges that still keep her up at night. She opens up about the moments when things didn't go according to plan (including one unforgettable mishap during Cake Week) and how quick thinking and creativity helped her rise to the top. Tune in for a heartfelt chat with one of Canada's most charming and humble champions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on Baking Scraps, Lisa and Cristina are joined by the sweet Pamela Kramer, a talented home baker and finalist from Season 8 of The Great Canadian Baking Show. In this inspiring episode, Pamela shares behind-the-scenes stories from her time in the baking tent, the strong and lasting friendships she built with fellow bakers, and how the experience helped her reconnect with self-care and self-love.

Lisa & Cristina are thrilled to welcome Great Canadian Baking Show Season 4 finalist @bakewithtanner to the Baking Scraps podcast. Tanner is not only a talented baker and musician, but also a proud stay-at-home dad raising his sweet toddler in Winnipeg, Canada.From living in the UK and Australia to whipping up stunning bakes on national TV, his journey is anything but ordinary.Now, Tanner and his life partner are embarking on their next big adventure: searching for a surrogate to grow their beautiful little family. @our.missing.piece Tune in for heartfelt stories, baking inspo, and a refreshing dose of real-life joy, resilience, and love. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Lisa and Cristina are serving up a double helping of baking brilliance with Great British Bake Off Season 13 fan favourite Janusz Domagala, a semi-finalist known for his vibrant bakes and even brighter personality, and Keiron George, who brought his pastry artistry and skills to the elite competition of GBBO: The Professionals (2021). Now, they've teamed up - and glammed up - for season 3 of Crime Scene Kitchen, baking their way through mystery, mayhem, and meringue to the finals!We're talking teamwork, tough clues, and the real pressure of baking when there's no recipe…just crumbs and chaos. Tune in for laughs, behind-the-scenes secrets, and a sweet look at how this iconic duo cracked the case, one cake at a time. You definitely won't want to miss this one! Catch it wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts or watch it on YouTube

Join Lisa and Cristina for an exciting episode of Baking Scraps as we chat with Andrew Evers from The Great Canadian Baking Show! Discover Andrew's journey on the show, his behind-the-scenes experiences, and his best baking tips. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a fan of reality baking shows, this episode offers insights, laughs, and inspiring stories from one of your favorite bakers. Tune in to learn more about the challenges and triumphs of competing on a top TV baking show!You can also watch this episode on our Baking Scraps YouTube channel for an added visual experience.

In this episode of Baking Scraps, Lisa & Cristina chat with our buddy Steven Levitt, a standout contestant from both Season 5 of The Great Canadian Baking Show and the most recent Holiday Baking Championship. Known for his unique way of infusing joy into baking, Levitt shares insights into his journey from amateur baker to television competitor. He discusses the challenges and joys of baking under pressure, offering listeners a behind-the-scenes look at his experiences on popular baking shows. Whether you're a fan of baking competitions or simply love all things pastry, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the sweet intersection of food and storytelling. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's always sprinkle season when Andrea is around! Macaron queen, rainbow and sprinkle enthusiast, and holiday overachiever…she lit up season three of the Great Canadian Baking Show, and now she's bringing that same energy to the pod. From baking chaos (the fun kind) to festive flair, Andrea's episode is a sugar-coated joyride you don't want to miss. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the podcast, we're joined by Crime Scene Kitchen Season 3 champions Jessica Harrison and Lenore Johnson!These longtime friends (and competitors) took on mystery desserts, high-stakes challenges, and a kitchen full of clues … and came out on top! Don't miss their behind-the-scenes stories, sweet strategies, and the moments that brought them closer than ever. And consider this your invitation to seek out CSK and binge watch it if you haven't yet…it's worth it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Next up on the podcast: Becky & Daniel Rosales, the dynamic sister-brother duo finalists in Season 3 of Crime Scene Kitchen! After years apart, they reunited for the ultimate baking challenge. With Daniel's pastry chef expertise and Becky's cookie artistry, they brought both skill and sibling spirit to the competition. You won't want to miss their story … and maybe even some behind-the-scenes secrets! Tune in for this all new episode of Baking Scraps featuring the talented and most lovely Becky & Daniel Rosales. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Get ready for a heartwarming episode with Katelyn and Ronan Allen! This dynamic duo captured hearts (and tummies) as semi-finalists on Crime Scene Kitchen Season 3, and their love and respect for each other shine both in and out of the kitchen. Katelyn, the social media star behind @sweetkatebake brings her signature creativity, energy and dancing skills to the kitchen while Ronan is her biggest cheerleader and supporter every step of the way. As recent newlyweds, their story is as sweet as their desserts. You won't want to miss this “couple goals” episode! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the Baking Scraps Podcast, Lisa and Cristina are chatting with none other than Jen Childs, finalist from Season 8 of The Great Canadian Baking Show.After seven (yes, SEVEN!) “unsuccessful” applications, Jen finally landed her spot in the tent … and she made it all the way to the finale! Proof that persistence, passion, and maybe a few dozen practice bakes really do pay off.Join us as we talk about her journey, the highs and lows of competition baking, and what kept her going after each “sorry, not this time” email. Trust us … you won't want to miss this one! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on Baking Scraps, Lisa and Cristina are welcoming two incredible bakers from The Great Canadian Baking Show Season 7—Niv Menon-Saberi and Rainier Maksoud!From the first signature bake to the final showstopper, GCBS isn't just about cake … it's about connection. This episode is all about the friendships that rise from the tent, turning competitors into lifelong friends. Join Lisa & Cristina as we chat about Niv's and Rainier's baking journeys, hilarious behind-the-scenes moments, and how the GCBS experience created bonds that go beyond the bakes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Double the Fun, Double the Episodes!We've got something extra special coming this Tuesday! Lisa and Cristina teamed up with Erin and Heather from Three Kitchens Podcast for a crossover event—you'll hear us on their show, and them on ours!Three Kitchens is all about cooking (with a little baking), and these two bring fun, creativity, and great conversation to the kitchen. We had a blast chatting with them about their journey into the podcasting world and their adventures in the kitchen! Catch both episodes wherever you listen to podcasts. Don't miss this delicious double feature! And be sure to follow Erin & Heather on @three_kitchens_podcast for lots of great conversation and meal ideas! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lisa and Cristina's next guest is none other than Arvin Garcia —winner of The Great Australian Bake Off Season 8!Known for his incredible creativity, precision, and quiet confidence, Arvin wowed the judges (and us!) with his stunning bakes. And seriously… who could ever forget that Tiramisu masterpiece?! We dive into his baking journey, his baking in the shed experience, and the artistry behind his showstopping creations. You won't want to miss this one! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on Baking Scraps podcast, Lisa & Cristina welcome Dimi Jayawardene, the bright and most lovely and talented finalist from Season 8 of The Great Australian Bake Off.Dimi wowed all of us with her beautiful creative bakes, bold flavours, and infectious and inspirational energy. We'll be chatting about her journey to the shed, her favourite bakes, and all the behind-the-scenes fun (including her secret kitchen that's ONLY for photo shoots - brilliant!).

This Week on Baking Scraps: A joyful chat with Elliot Styche!First, Lisa & Cristina open the episode with a little rundown of what we brought and who we saw when we attended the Vancouver open call for Season 9 casting of the Great Canadian Baking Show this past week - it was a fabulous day with some incredible alumni, efficient and friendly crew, and some new and familiar local BC bakers. Check out the Instagram handles of some who impressed us!Then, it's beginning to look a lot like Christmas - at least, it was when we recorded this week's episode! Lisa and Cristina kick off a special three-part series featuring the finalists from The Great Australian Bake Off Season 8, starting with the one and only Elliot Styche.Elliot shares how his upbringing on a Yorkshire farm shaped his love of food and gave him the skills to pull off an impressive dinner party with speed and ease. We chat about what brought him to Australia; his journey to Bake Off; what's next for him; and his special bond with fellow finalists Dimi and Arvin (who we'll hear from in the next two episodes!).Of course, it wouldn't be The Baking Scraps without a round of This or That, a deep dive into Elliot's thoughts on pineapple on pizza, and his very own “Baking Scrap.” Plus, we uncover some very interesting facts about Australian wildlife and chocolate—though, fair warning, we don't have a fact-checker, so take them with a pinch of salt (or sugar!).Tune in for laughs, baking tales, and plenty of joyful chaos! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lisa and Cristina are thrilled to welcome the amazing Alina Fintineanu to the Baking Scraps podcast!Alina is a Season 5 contestant from The Great Canadian Baking Show and a graduate of the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu pastry school in Paris. Not only is she incredibly talented, but she's also one of the most gracious and supportive bakers we've had the pleasure of meeting. Beautiful inside and out, Alina's passion for baking and artistry truly shines through in everything she does.Stay tuned for an inspiring conversation with this extraordinary baker! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the first Season 2 episode of the Baking Scraps, Lisa & Cristina sit down with Marian Castelino, a talented baker from Season 5 of The Great Canadian Baking Show. Born in Bahrain to Sri Lankan parents, Marian identifies as a "third culture kid," shaped by her multicultural upbringing. She shares her journey of moving to Canada, where she and her husband—who also emigrated from Bahrain—finally met.Marian talks about her career as a designer, how her love for baking began with creating nut-free treats for her daughter who has nut allergies, and how she worked through her insecurities as she entered the competition. Despite being a self-described “weirdo”, Marian reflects on how being on the show helped her embrace her uniqueness and gain confidence in her individuality.We also dive into how the Covid-19 pandemic impacted social life, how her experience on the show shifted her career as a designer, and the lasting friendships she formed with her fellow bakers. Join us for a conversation on overcoming self-doubt, embracing your identity, and the powerful connections that come from the love of baking.Recorded November 11, 2024 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join Lisa & Cristina for an exciting episode of Baking Scraps featuring the fabulous Dyana O'Brien, also known as the Rockabilly Baker! As a finalist on Season 6 of The Great American Baking Show, filmed in the iconic Bake Off tent with judges Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith, Dyana brought her unique flair to the competition—and she's here to share her journey with us!With her striking retro style, complete with victory rolls and funky vintage outfits, Dyana seamlessly blends her love of baking with her passion for music as a singer in a rockabilly band. Discover how her eclectic interests inspire her creations and how she stylishly matched her wardrobe to her bakes in the tent.In this episode, we'll chat about the highs and lows of being a baking finalist, her creative process, and how she and her husband embrace their empty nest by pursuing their individual passions. Tune in for a lively conversation filled with inspiration, nostalgia, and of course, a generous sprinkle of baking wisdom. Whether you're a fan of retro style or just love delicious treats, this episode is sure to rock your world! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join Lisa & Cristina in this lively episode of Baking Scraps as they welcome the talented food writer Micheline Maynard! With decades of experience as a journalist and author, Micheline shares her fascinating insights into the world of food culture.We explore the intriguing differences and similarities between The Great Canadian Baking Show and The Great British Bake Off, and whether or not Paul Hollywood may be going soft. Micheline also discusses her journey into food writing and how her Canadian connections have influenced her work and her life as a foodie.To add a twist of fun, we play a game of "This or That," which sparks a flurry of entertaining stories and very strong opinions (especially on - ahem - raisins). Join us for a blend of culinary conversation and playful moments you won't want to miss. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Lisa and Cristina are excited to welcome Fred Csibi-Levin, the talented scientist-turned-pastry chef known as Doc Macaron.With a background in pharmaceuticals, Fred made the significant decision to leave his career and fully embrace his passion for pastry. He shares how his scientific expertise influences his baking techniques and how he's dedicated to teaching others through online classes and his vibrant social media presence. Fred competed in the 2022 Christmas Cookie Challenge, showcasing his remarkable creations and unique approach to baking.Join us as we explore his journey, the challenges he faced, and the upcoming cookbook set to launch on November 26th, filled with inspiring macaron recipes and insights on how to master this tricky cookie. This conversation promises to be both enlightening and delicious, diving deep into the world of creative baking and the balance between science and art. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The three bakers to compete in the finale for Season 8 of the Great Canadian Baking Show brought us smiles, tears, and jaw dropping bakes week after week. Pamela, Jen, and Elora brought their own styles, creativity, flavour punches, and personality to the show, and this episode of Baking Scraps is no exception. Join Lisa and Cristina as we welcome the final three bakers in for a chat that's full of heart. All three express their memories and feelings about what they've experienced on their way to the tent, during their time competing on the show, and the aftermath. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lisa, Cristina, and the Fabulous Baker Boyz are joined by special guest Larry Harris, bread baker extraordinaire from season four of the Great Canadian Baking Show! With a towering bread “wedding bake” serving as the final showstopper of season eight, who better to join us and give his thoughts?We break down the episode bit by bit, weighing in on our favourite moments and the strengths of each of the final three bakers, while discussing what it was like to bake in a tent with over 40°C heat. Amazing flavours, beautiful structures, and technical difficulties abound, culminating in the crowning of the latest winner of GCBS. The S4 and S5 alumni reminisce – and sometimes argue – about their time in the tent, giving all of us some laughs and nostalgia along the way.And in the end, all the bakers gave it everything they had, truly giving meaning to the phrase “go big or go home”…because when you're all going home anyway, you might as well leave it all on the table. CONGRATULATIONS to all the bakers of Season 8 for a spectacular season; we have loved watching all of you and know that every single one of you could have made it to the end. And congratulations to the winner, who truly has shown all of us the meaning of dedication, perseverance, and beauty. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nature's Recipe Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Celebration Week Scrap Recap (GCBS Season 8) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week's guest has left us verklempt! If you guessed that Lisa and Cristina would be chatting with the one and only Rita Vathje, Season 8 baker of the Great Canadian Baking Show, then you were correct (insert SCREAM here!!)!The Baking Scraps chat about who inspired Rita's baking journey and led her to bake in that iconic tent in Season 8; her role as the unofficial den mother and cheerleader for the other bakers in the tens; and her pride and love for her family and faith. It's a heartfelt and fun chat with this talented, skilled and most positive human - everyone needs a Rita in their lives! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On today's episode of Baking Scraps, the incredibly talented pastry king Marcus Tam joins Lisa and Cristina for a lively chat. You will know Marcus as the passionate and focused baker from Season 8 of the Great Canadian Baking Show, where he often infused bold and unique flavour combinations and unique twists into his beautiful and intricate bakes.Marcus chats with the Scraps about baking journey - that started less than five years ago - and how his passion for challenging bakes led him to the Tent in Season 8. He chats about his love for his fiancee, Amrita, his family, and of course, his favourite stuffy, Piggy - who makes a cameo appearance! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Baking Scraps and the Fabulous Baker Boyz are back once again to recap episode 6 of the Great Canadian Baking Show, season eight: Nature Week! What a week it was, with macaron fauna showing up in fabulous ways, a ssssnakey kind of Technical, and shadowboxes of all sorts. The bakers truly outdid themselves in flavour and technique, and we were HERE for it. Vincent wears pink (is it to honour Elora?), Steven conspires once again to oust Lisa and Cristina from their own podcast, and the Baking Scraps ladies discuss macarons in painstaking detail. Don't miss this recap of an incredible week in the tent. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Technical difficulties abound as Lisa's power fails and she is forced to record the podcast on an unfamiliar device, and then the windstorm causes more problems (uh oh; she's frozen…)! Fortunately the mishaps stay away until the very end, and she and Cristina are able to rehash this week's artistic creations with The Fabulous Baker Boyz just in time to go watch Steven on the premiere of his latest baking competition, the Holiday Baking Championship!From focaccia fossils to a holiday wreath decorated in cold cuts, to cartoon cakes that inspire nostalgic moments, this week had the bakers bringing their A game. The foursome stress over an edgy technical they may or may not attempt, laugh over the myriad comic book noises, and join together in sadness as they say goodbye to another incredible baker this season. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to another episode of Baking Scraps! Today, Lisa and Cristina are thrilled to welcome the talented and all around wonderful human Guillaume Boivin, from Season 8 of The Great Canadian Baking Show. Guillaume baked with such heart, always bringing unique and interesting flavours to the tent influenced by his love of foraging in the woods. Being fearless in the tent, he wasn't afraid to take big risks - some of them paid off beautifully, and he was the Cookie Week Star Baker. But sadly, the tent got him during Coffee & Tea Week - with bakes that were just a little too ambitious that didn't quite hit the mark - ultimately and sadly sending him home. Guillaume embraced it all with passion and joy. We're excited to dive into his bold choices, hear about his most and least favourite bakes, and the lessons he's learned along the way. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lisa and Cristina are back with the Fabulous Baker Boyz—Steven Levitt and Vincent Chan, for those who may have missed it! They recap the highs and lows of Week 4 of Season 8 of The Great Canadian Baking Show. From a delicious layered Signature to a three-course Showstopper, they dive into the experiences of the seven bakers remaining in the tent, clumsily navigating a few Swedish words along the way. Their discussion of the Technical Bake, featuring a South African tart, brings some giggles, and the tent is filled with emotions as a new Star Baker is announced while another baker is sadly eliminated. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The inimitable and indomitable Patty de Guia joins Lisa and Cristina for a Baking Scraps episode that is both heart-wrenching and hilarious. From sharing the story of her three life-threatening "close calls" to expressing how it felt to leave the Great Canadian Baking Show tent, the third baker eliminated from Season 8 opens up in a way that only Patty can do. She talks about her extensive cookbook collection; the friendships she made in the tent (and the gifts she left behind for her fellow bakers); and how it felt to walk her kids to school for the first time after her above-the-knee leg amputation. We play a game of This or That that forces Patty to choose between her two loves - and no, her children are not included in that question.Patty's exuberance and determination inspired us when she was in the tent and continue to do so now that she is out. Find out for yourself what a little dose of Patty can do for you! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this unforgettable episode of Baking Scraps, the spotlight is on Rejean Mayer, who, despite being eliminated during Cookie Week, left a lasting impression in his two weeks on the show. With his background as an actor, Rejean brought a delightful mix of humor and flair to the tent, captivating both the judges and his fellow bakers.During his time in the tent, Rejean created stunning and delicious cookies while also paying heartfelt tributes to his loved ones—his husband, daughter, parents, and siblings. He shares with Lisa and Cristina how his adopted daughter influenced him in his journey to the tent, and how he had never even seen the show before auditioning. His infectious laughter and positive spirit made the competition even more enjoyable, as he turned each challenge into a celebration.Lisa and Cristina can't help but join in on the playful banter and show their genuine affection for him. As they reminisce about his time in the tent, it's clear that Rejean's presence was a highlight of the season. His unique blend of fun, passion, and heartfelt stories ensured that Rejean will be remembered fondly, celebrating both his talent and the joy he brought to the competition. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Vincent Chan and Steven Levitt (suddenly know as "The Fabulous Baker Boys") take the reins as the new hosts of this week's recap of Savoury Week from Season 8 of The Great Canadian Baking Show. While initially reluctant, Lisa and Cristina quickly embrace the opportunity to learn from the expertise of their new co-hosts.The first-ever Savoury Week showcases a vibrant array of Signature samosas, a tempting technical bake, and Wellingtons prepared in two unique styles, all evoking the comforts of home and introducing a new Star Baker (or Fryer?). Cheeseburger flavors, cream cheese, goat cheese, and a variety of eggs emerge more frequently than expected, adding an unexpected twist to the bakes. Meanwhile, a crucial decision to omit a component may be what leads to one baker's departure.As the episode unfolds, the quartet enjoy witty one-liners from several bakers; take note of the expanded role of the hosts this week; and explore the challenges of puff pastry, pondering the essential roles of prosciutto and crepes in a Wellington. Ultimately, a trio of nearly flawless bakes earns a well-deserved Star Baker title, wrapping up a delightfully sweet and savoury episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this candid episode, Lisa & Cristina sit down with Christine Campbell, the talented Season 8 baker who made history as the first baker from New Brunswick to enter the Great Canadian Baking Show tent—only to be the first to leave. Christine opens up about the harrowing experience of her Showstopper challenge, sharing the real story behind her struggles and the overwhelming pressure she faced in the heat of competition.As a special friend of the Baking Scraps, Christine's journey is a heartfelt mix of triumphs and trials. She recounts her love for baking, the challenges she faced during the competition, and the emotional rollercoaster of not finishing her Showstopper. Join us as we explore the ups and downs of her baking journey, and listen in on our fun game of “This or That,” revealing her favorite baking moments and quirks.Get ready for an honest conversation that delves deep into the pressures of competition and the resilience it takes to chase your passion, reminding us all that every setback can lead to growth and new beginnings. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join Lisa & Cristina in this highly anticipated episode of Baking Scraps as they welcome the incredibly talented Andrei Godoroja, the Season 2 winner of The Great Canadian Baking Show! With two cake plates to his name and a heart full of kindness, Andrei embodies the spirit of a true renaissance man.Not only is he a master baker, but Andrei also brings a wealth of diverse experiences to the table. He's an avid skier and sailor, having even lived on his boat for a while, navigating both the waters and the world of baking with equal passion. Plus, he's a trained opera singer, proving that his talents extend far beyond the kitchen!In this episode, we'll explore how Andrei balances his multifaceted hobbies and the challenges he faced on his baking journey—all approached with grace and humility. We'll also reminisce about the heartwarming holiday special featuring four past winners, where creativity and camaraderie took center stage.Tune in for a conversation filled with inspiration, laughter, and, of course, plenty of baking wisdom. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just love the sweet smell of fresh treats, this episode is sure to leave you craving more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Vincent Chan and Steven Levitt return for our recap of Cookie Week from Season 8 of the Great Canadian Baking Show, where this week's Wafer Cookie Technical Challenge had everyone buzzing.We were thrilled by the '80s nostalgia and some truly unexpected flavor combinations. We'll dive into topics like bacon in baking; the meticulous planning and thoughtfulness of a few standout bakers; marshmallow versus Italian meringue; and the many shades of pink. We also bid a fond farewell to another favorite, while celebrating the fashion choices and heartfelt baking decisions of this week's Star Baker. Plus, we ponder whether Rice Krispie Squares and cookies made in a waffle iron truly count as a BAKE!Join Cristina and Lisa along with our special guests for a recap best delivered by two bakers who've navigated all eight episodes in the iconic tent—just try to overlook the cheesy puns and accidental innuendos! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Baking Scraps, Lisa and Cristina sit down with Aimee DeCruyenaere, the talented finalist from Season 5 of the Great Canadian Baking Show! Known for her unforgettable creations, including a stunning bread oven that sparked endless "buns in the oven" jokes, Aimee shares her journey from being the youngest baker in her season to balancing her engineering studies with her passion for baking.After graduating, Aimee combined her skills to create innovative kitchen implements, blending her love for baking and engineering in a truly unique way. Join us as we dive into her creative process, the challenges she faced on the show, and her thoughts on the incredible moments that still resonate with fans.The trio also play a fun game of This or That, featuring her favorite baking ingredients, and take a moment to celebrate the magic of brown butter—because who doesn't love that rich, nutty flavor? Tune in for a delightful conversation filled with laughs, insights, and a dash of baking inspiration! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special episode of Baking Scraps, we're diving into the delightful world of baking with the dynamic duo from Season 5: Vincent Chan and Steven Levitt. Join us as we recap the highly anticipated premiere of Season 8 of The Great Canadian Baking Show.We'll discuss the standout moments, our favorite bakers, and the delicious creations that wowed us right from the start, including the much-talked-about schmoo cake Technical Bake. Vincent brings his keen eye for presentation, while Steven offers his expert insights into the technical challenges faced by the contestants.From the Signature bakes to the Showstoppers, we'll explore the delicious creativity on display and what makes this season special. Plus, we'll share our predictions for the season ahead and what we're most excited to see!Whether you're a baking aficionado or just tuning in for the fun, this episode is packed with laughter, insights, and plenty of baking love. Don't miss it! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join Lisa and Cristina for a deliciously engaging episode as we sit down with culinary stars Bruno Feldeisen and Kyla Kennaley! With the highly anticipated Season 8 of The Great Canadian Baking Show premiering this Sunday, October 6, this special bonus episode shares the inspiring journeys of these two beloved judges.Bruno, renowned for his exquisite pastry skills and culinary creativity, shares the story behind his rise to fame and the passion that fuels his artistry. Kyla, a powerhouse in the kitchen known for her innovative approach to contemporary cooking, opens up about her early exposure to the culinary world and the experiences that shaped her career.In this episode, we explore their individual paths, the challenges they face in sampling thirty different dishes each week, and their excitement about this brand new season. With sneak peeks and behind-the-scenes insights, you'll gain a deeper understanding of what makes Bruno and Kyla a dynamic duo in the culinary world.Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with food, ambition, and the thrill of new beginnings...and watch the new crop of bakers on CBC and the CBC Gem app every Sunday starting today! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join Lisa and Cristina for an inspiring episode featuring Lauren Tjoe, the youngest winner of Season 6 of the Great Canadian Baking Show! Balancing her finance career with her passion for baking, Lauren shares her journey from Tsawwassen to Toronto and dives into her love for collecting teapots and her daily excitement for breakfast.What makes Lauren's story truly remarkable is her experience on the show as a gluten and dairy-free baker. Due to her dietary restrictions, she had to bake without tasting her creations, relying on her intuition, creativity, and knowledge of flavors. Discover how this challenge shaped her baking style and taught her to trust her instincts in the kitchen.Now living in Toronto, Lauren satisfies her creative cravings through pop-up baking events while maintaining close friendships with her fellow contestants. Tune in as she reflects on her journey, shares tips for aspiring bakers, and discusses the joy of combining finance with her culinary passions. This episode is a delightful mix of baking, personal growth, and the adventures of following your dreams! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to another sweet - or should we say - “dolce” episode of Baking Scraps! Today Lisa and Cristina have a special guest: Stephanie Tucci, owner of “By Chefanie” and a recent finalist on the Food Network's Summer Baking Championship. We'll dive into her journey from chef to pastry pro and why she made the switch to baking and gelato. Stephanie shares stories about her Italian heritage, studying her craft in Italy, and even making her own wedding cakes—yes, all four of them! Plus, we chat about her recent TV appearance, recent wedding and honeymoon and her love for everything Italian. She's truly living La Dolce Vita. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this upcoming episode of Baking Scraps, Lisa and Cristina are thrilled to feature Saïd M'Dahoma, also known as “the Pastry Nerd”. Saïd shares his fascinating story about why he started baking and how this ultimately led to his life's journey from a successful career in neuroscience to becoming a full-time baker and baking instructor. We dive into his family's vanilla farm in Mayotte, a small island off the coast of Africa/Madagascar, and how this unique connection to vanilla has influenced his craft over the years. Saïd also talks about his move from Paris to Calgary and how he's seen the local food scene evolve during his time in the city. You won't want to miss this one! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of Baking Scraps, Lisa and Cristina are thrilled to welcome Niki Behjou, a seasoned food blogger and recipe creator with 15 years of experience. Niki has published her recipes in several magazines and is now celebrating the release of her much-anticipated new cookbook, Niki Bakes—a project that's been 10 years in the making!Join us as we dive into Niki's inspiring journey, exploring how her love for nature and her cultural background have shaped her culinary creations. Plus, you won't want to miss her recounting of her biggest baking fail—it's one for the books! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tune in for a slice of baking joy that proves you can't "Bread Bad"!In this exciting episode of Baking Scraps, hosts Lisa and Cristina come together in Cristina's kitchen for a delightful baking adventure with Larry Harris from Season 4 of The Great Canadian Baking Show. Larry joins the duo to demonstrate the art of crafting Shokupan, a soft, airy Japanese bread that's sure to impress both seasoned bakers and novices alike.As they knead, shape, and bake, Larry shares his journey from passionate baker to reality TV star, including the highs and lows of closing his bakery, the behind-the-scenes of his Great Canadian Baking Show experience and the rollercoaster ride of competing on national television. He reflects on the unique challenges of the Covid pandemic and how it reshaped his approach to the craft.Larry also opens up about the professional transitions he's made since the show ended and his current projects. Throughout the episode, he fondly recalls the friendships forged on the baking show and the camaraderie of the baking community.Listeners can look forward to a playful game of This or That, plenty of bread-themed puns, and a spirited discussion on why Bread Week is the best week. With Lisa, Cristina, and Larry at the helm, this episode promises a fun, insightful, and heartwarming dive into the world of baking. Tune in for a slice of joy and a sprinkle of baking magic!SHOKUPAN RECIPE: Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Baking Scraps, hosts Lisa and Cristina are delighted to welcome Nataliia Shevchenko, the celebrated winner of Season 3 of The Great Canadian Baking Show. Nataliia, originally from Ukraine, shares her inspiring journey from her homeland to Canada, and how her passion for baking has flourished since arriving.As she discusses her baking roots, Nataliia shines a spotlight on Honey Cake, a cherished traditional Ukrainian dessert that holds a special place in her heart. She explains how this rich, multilayered cake is not only a beloved part of Ukrainian culinary heritage but also a symbol of her desire to honor her roots and bring Ukrainian flavors to the Canadian baking scene. Nataliia also opens up about the challenges she faced while baking in Ukraine, particularly the scarcity of ingredients which forced her to become incredibly resourceful and inventive, as well as the challenges of competing in an English-speaking baking competition while only having been in the country for three years.Tune in for an episode rich with cultural insights, baking inspiration, and the heartfelt stories that make Nataliia's journey so compelling. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lisa and Cristina are beyond excited to welcome the amazing Raufikat, winner of Season 4 of The Great Canadian Baking Show, to Baking Scraps: The Sweet Talk Podcast! In this episode, we chat with Raufikat about her incredible journey from her Nigerian roots to the iconic GCBS tent, where she wowed us all with her baking brilliance.We also get the inside scoop on what it was like teaching the hosts, Ann and Alan, how to bake (spoiler: it's as hilarious as it sounds!), and hear all about competing against other incredible, talented GCBS champions.Don't miss this sweet and inspiring conversation with one of the kindest souls in the baking world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lisa and Cristina kick off the unofficial "Winners' Weeks" as they talk with the remarkable Vincent Chan, the masterful artist behind the exquisite creations that won him the prestigious Cake Plate on Season 5 of the Great Canadian Baking Show. With a keen eye for simple yet elegant designs, Vincent reveals how spreadsheets and love for family play a crucial role in mapping out his culinary masterpieces - embodying the essence of "the Chan Way". Vincent shares his early baking inspiration and the unexpected twist in his career as graphic artist that brought him to work in interior design and then down the path of landing on the acclaimed baking show. Join Lisa and Cristina as we uncover the layers of passion, creativity, and determination that define Vincent's baking odyssey. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.