Ashley Landerman, of New Braunfels' own 2Tarts Bakery, has baked her way to victory, securing the title of Holiday Baking Champion on the Food Network's nail-biting season finale, which aired yesterday evening. According to the San Antonio Express-News, Landerman showcased her culinary prowess by crafting a stunning macaron wreath and a festive holiday cake complete with a functioning train, which clinched her the win and the hefty $25,000 prize.
Prior to her big win on the "Holiday Baking Championship," Landerman proved she was no stranger to the Food Network stage. Having snagged the win in the 2019 Christmas Cookie Challenge, Landerman's talents are not confined to the small screen, her bakery, known for delectable treats such as Red Velvet cookies and Gingerbread macarons, has now added an extra layer of holiday cheer, thanks to Landerman bringing home the crown. In an announcement made yesterday, the 2tarts Bakery celebrated Landerman's advancement to the finals of the competition, which originally featured 12 competitors from across the country all vying for the grand prize.
Emphasizing the stakes of the competition, Landerman entered the championship with a personal mission, anticipating the prize money for a heartwarming family cause, according to the Food Network she planned to use the winnings to restore her family camper van, allowing her and her loved ones to create new memories on the road together.
While the competition was fierce, Landerman wasn't the lone Texan in the kitchen; the tenth season showcased a strong representation from Texas with bakers like Greg Ballenger of Dallas and Josh Juarez of Woof Gang Bakery in Austin, each showcasing their unique baking talents. As they joined the culinary battle that eventually led to Landerman's victory, she took home not just a cash prize but also bragging rights as the cream of the crop in holiday baking. Teaching us all, when it comes down to high stakes in the holiday oven, Texas bakers sure know how to turn up the heat.
