Scottish Café is hunting for Scotland’s best baker

The Scottish Café and Restaurant next to the National Gallery of Scotland which is run by Victor and Carina Contini is searching for Scotland’s finest home baker.

If you are an amateur baker then you are encouraged to put your apron on and show off your baking which may then be featured on the afternoon tea menu at the Scottish Café. Last year 14 year-old Grace Warnock from Prestonpans was crowned champion. She made Trifle, Banoffee, Apple Pie and Lemon Meringue cupcakes.

Scottish Café owner Carina will be one of the judges to select the overall winner on the basis of technical ability, creative flair, originality and use of local ingredients.

Carina Contini said: “We had such an amazing response to our ‘Contini Bake Off’ competition last year and had so much fun judging the entries, that we wanted to offer people the chance to show off their culinary flair again this year. 

“With the home baking trend continuing to grip the nation, we’re encouraging talented amateur cooks of all ages to rise to the occasion once again and put their culinary skills in the limelight.

“Last year, Grace Warnock really did rise to the challenge and dazzled us with her baking talent. This year, we’d be keen to see more entries from schools, families, grandparents and their grandchildren of all ages.

“As the home of one of Edinburgh’s finest afternoon teas at the Scottish National Gallery, The Scottish Cafe is the perfect setting to celebrate this iconic British dining tradition, as well as people’s passion for beautifully presented and mouthwateringly delicious food. We look forward to showcasing Scotland’s best home bakers and wish everyone the best of luck.”

To enter The Scottish Cafe’s search for Scotland’s best home baker, people should post a show-stopping photograph or short film of themselves with their afternoon tea creation and a brief description on social media, tagging The Scottish Cafe on Instagram (www.instagram.com/thescottishcafe), Twitter (https://twitter.com/Continibites) or Facebook (www.facebook.com/theScottishCafe), and using hashtag #ContiniBakeOff by Wednesday 30th September.  

Entrants must live in Scotland, love home baking and be over 18 years of age. Entries from children must be supported by a parent, guardian or teacher.