This show could definitely work in the US but will require a considerable amount of funding, time and commitment. I suggest that PBS take it on. The Humanities Foundation, aided by many producers of cooking equipment and quality baking products (no Pillsbury please!) , who would jump at the chance.
1
Thank you for the delightful article.
I definitely want to try the recipe for Victoria Sponge Cake. It looks ravishing but please help me reconcile the recipe and video instructions with the photograph. Does it have two layers of jam – one above and one below the whipped cream? Or is there just one jam layer?
I definitely want to try the recipe for Victoria Sponge Cake. It looks ravishing but please help me reconcile the recipe and video instructions with the photograph. Does it have two layers of jam – one above and one below the whipped cream? Or is there just one jam layer?
traditionally a proper victoria sponge doesn't have whipped cream however it would just be one layer of jam. personally i love to use vanilla buttercream icing instead of whipped cream. nothing better than a slice of his and a nice cup of tea!
2
It is not so much the recipe as to the technique of manufacture.
Separating the egg and whipping them separately follow by folding them into the mix is one.
Separating the egg and whipping them separately follow by folding them into the mix is one.
One layer. In the pic it may look like two, but I think that's the dark bake on the bottom of the upper layer of cake.
I enjoy it. I learn, and it is pleasant to watch a program where the people aren't nasty to each other. FoodNetwork should take note on its formula. Nice does result in ratings.
24
As a tour book I read once put it about England and English food: There’s English Breakfast, and after that, it’s all down-hill for the rest of the day regarding one’s expectations for dining. English cooking to me is deep-fried fish and potatoes served on newspaper, as if printer’s ink were a sort of spice.
We got their Anglo-Saxon democratic tradition, but we also got their cooking. (We could have gotten the Spanish non-democratic tradition, instead, but how much Paella can you eat?) Fortunately, however, a lot of other people from different parts of the world, who think printer’s ink is not for cooks, came here…and brought their lunches.
Now the English (British) are baking. What is “kidney pie”, anyway? I imagine raw cow kidneys stuffed into a pie crust.
Rule Britannia…just not in the kitchen.
We got their Anglo-Saxon democratic tradition, but we also got their cooking. (We could have gotten the Spanish non-democratic tradition, instead, but how much Paella can you eat?) Fortunately, however, a lot of other people from different parts of the world, who think printer’s ink is not for cooks, came here…and brought their lunches.
Now the English (British) are baking. What is “kidney pie”, anyway? I imagine raw cow kidneys stuffed into a pie crust.
Rule Britannia…just not in the kitchen.
I've eaten some of the best meals of my life in London. Your picture of British cooking is out of date.
19
the British (not solely england!) have always baked.
6
Mary Berry is THE reason to watch this wonderful show. She is the vanilla paste that keep the show smooth, the hint of lemon that makes it slightest bit tart, the sifted flour that makes it stable, and the yeast that makes it rise to great heights. She is Britain's gift to reality TV and to the world.
20
People being kind to one another, regardless of their background. The first and only reality TV show that reflects how real people can and do treat each other, everyday, around the world, when they have a common focus and mutual respect. This program shows people at their best and gives us all hope that more than a proliferation of good baking will come of it.
36
Sad. These butter, eggs, sugar recipes belong with swill from the dark ages. Not just unimaginative but also unsustainable.
3
I've always thought that British breads, soups, and desserts were good. Meat? Who needs it?
1
The show is (was?) a delight through and through. Apparently there are in fact occasional tears from the bakers, but almost every time it happened the hosts would run over and start swearing and acting crazy so the footage can't be used. It's a weird but effective way to ensure nobody is humiliated in the show. Meanwhile in America the cameras would zero in and there would be directors trying to mine the tears for maximum effect. I wish our programming was as considerate and charming.
35
I LOVE this show! I love how encouraging the judges are to the contestants, even though they will not mince words when they critique the results. The contestants also seem supportive of each other, which is so nice to see. I love learning about all the different pastries that are considered "staples" in England that I have never heard of. We have a little baking group which tackled(successfully) macarons and mochi, and are thinking of making something with the hot water pastry mention on GBBS which none of us had ever heard of. I am so sad to learn the show is not going to continue.
18
Here in States we had many cooking shows, although nothing compared to the British baking show. For some reason the simplicity, the multicultural elegance of the baking show is delightful.
27
They tried this show here, with Paul Hollywood. It was not a success. The most noteworthy thing that happened was Paul had an affair with his co-star, Marcela Valladolid. It was so tawdry and sad.
7
It's The Great British Baking Show. Please get the name right.
No, its proper name is the Great British Bake Off -- as the article explains, it goes by the alternate name when broadcast in the US because of a trademark issue.
3
In the US it's the Great British Baking Show; in the UK it's the Great British Bake Off as the article focuses on the impact of the show in the UK, the author and editor are using the applicable title.
Sort of on the theme of two countries divided by a common language, lol
Sort of on the theme of two countries divided by a common language, lol
3
It's "Baking Show" in the US, but "Bake Off" in England. (My pet theory is that Pillsbury has the trademark in the US for "bake off".)
9
I caught this show 2 years ago on a Cathay Pacific flight from Hong Kong and watched an entire season on my 16 hr flight to New York. My expat UK friends had recommended it as a cultural phenom taking place at home. I have periodically binge-watched entire seasons via youtube when possible. Wonderful.
9
Long live Sue Perkins!
9
What I love best about the show, which is the same reason I loved a British cooking competition that aired several years ago, is that the focus isn't on big personalities fighting with each other. That would be an Americanized version, and I would not like it. The focus is on baking, and all those weird British and European baked goods of which I've never heard.
23
I Love Love Love this show but will NEVER watch it on Network TV. An unbelievable shame...kudos to the ladies for showing such integrity by bowing out.
8
Here in the UK the last ever semi-final of GBBO as we know was broadcast earlier this evening. One more week to go... I'm really going to miss this show and can't see myself watching whatever C4 puts out under this title. I read that the BBC is developing a new vehicle for Mary, Mel and Sue so I'm looking forward to seeing that.
I've never met anyone who didn't love a slice or two of homemade Victoria sandwich or lemon drizzle cake (I use Mary Berry's foolproof recipes for both) so if you haven't already, please do try them out!
I've never met anyone who didn't love a slice or two of homemade Victoria sandwich or lemon drizzle cake (I use Mary Berry's foolproof recipes for both) so if you haven't already, please do try them out!
7
There's more to the show's appeal than rooting for a favorite baker. To borrow a phrase, every little detail plays a part. There's Mary Berry's motherly warmth, and Mel and Sue's sisterly support, and I'd say they're as integral to the show's success as the impressive bakers. It won't be the same show without them, and it may not be as much fun to watch.
I watched the two American versions of the show, with different hosts but the same format, and neither one measured up. The hosts were unappealing, and the enthusiastic contestants seemed more suited to The Price is Right than a baking show. It's sad that this enjoyable show is likely to lose some of the things that made it lovable. And if they also go the route of casting bakers with bigger, bolder personalities, that will be the last puff pastry straw.
I watched the two American versions of the show, with different hosts but the same format, and neither one measured up. The hosts were unappealing, and the enthusiastic contestants seemed more suited to The Price is Right than a baking show. It's sad that this enjoyable show is likely to lose some of the things that made it lovable. And if they also go the route of casting bakers with bigger, bolder personalities, that will be the last puff pastry straw.
17
I know this is s business decision - more money is involved for the show's owners/producers. The fans of the show have no control over this fact. But as a fan who reads through all the comments on this article I can see that this show transcends all that for the viewers. The reasons are well described throughout and I share them. It's just a shame that the producers can't appreciate the ineffable treasure that they created. They came up with a lovely world with wonderful passionate individuals who care about other things beyond getting ahead at all costs. Fairy cakes and hard honest work - there are worse combinations. It's a shame the producers learned nothing from their own creation.
27
I don't know why, but I absolutely love this show. Not for the baking, though. It seems so fussy. I love the personalities and their unwavering British-ness. I can't put my finger on what it is, exactly. Something like self-deprecating bullying and humble hubris. Really fascinating to watch.
50
This country needs more programs like this one, where the pleasure of baking something attractive and tasty is more important, really, than who is a winner.
It's also a fascinating exercise in cultural culinary variety: some of the things I've seen made on the show don't appeal to my appetite at all; in fact some seem downright weird to the American taste. And couple that with my favorite incident, where Paul Hollywood wondered out loud if grape jelly could ever go with peanut butter.
I love a show that teaches me things I didn't know before. As I get older, it's becoming more difficult to find any, not because I'm so brilliant, but because TV covers the same territory over and over. But there's always something new and interesting on the British Bake-Off. Victoria sponge, here I come!
It's also a fascinating exercise in cultural culinary variety: some of the things I've seen made on the show don't appeal to my appetite at all; in fact some seem downright weird to the American taste. And couple that with my favorite incident, where Paul Hollywood wondered out loud if grape jelly could ever go with peanut butter.
I love a show that teaches me things I didn't know before. As I get older, it's becoming more difficult to find any, not because I'm so brilliant, but because TV covers the same territory over and over. But there's always something new and interesting on the British Bake-Off. Victoria sponge, here I come!
40
Wonderful show! I am not British, nor can I eat wheat, flour or sugar, but that never stops me from trying to catch episodes. What is so appealing is all that I learn about the British from their baking...it's a tour of the UK and its history from the comfort of one's home. The Great Irish Bake Off, The Great Australian Bake Off and Great South African Bake Off are equally good....still not eating wheat, flour or sugar! It's really interesting to compare the four cultures and their foods. Awesome shows! Thank you, Ms. Clark for an interesting article.
16
I love this show and feel the angst and disappointment when recipes do not turn out. I am always amazed at what these amatuer bakers turn out under the time constraints. I sit through the show wishing I was able to reach through the TV for a sample taste just like Mary and Paul get. I hope the show does not change.
16
Tried watching this cooking show, never understood the point of the cooking location and tent and I finally concluded that (for me) it's the worst cooking show on US or UK TV. The last straw was the competition for the best American pies. First, when Paul says that he doesn't particularly like American pies because they are too sweet, it's clear that he doesn't know what he's talking about - ever heard of cherry, blueberry and apple which rely primarily on the sweetness of the fruit as opposed to sugar. However, when the contestant put the chocolate fudge on top of the pumpkin pie, I had to shake my head and wonder what these people are concocting and if that's what they (and Paul) consider a version of an American classic. And just one point I've wanted to make for years - using gelatin as a thickener is revolting! Maybe it's a very good thing that this TV show has improved the baking in Britain.
7
It took me about 10 minutes of the first episoe to switch the channel, and this show is one of many reasons I no longer contribute to PBS. And I agree with you on gelatin. Although cooking isn't why I read it, I have found some really interesting recipes (without gelatin or other gunk), including baked goods, in the UK version of the magazine "Country Living."
Love everything about this show. The vast knowledge and tremendous determination of the participants is almost inspirational. The charm and camaraderie of the judges and the participants Is lovely to watch. The lack of any material reward other than a "job well done" is its own reward. And finally most important to me is the wonderful diversity of people in n the show who demonstrate why we all can just get along when we celebrate our commonalities.
25
I love this show. There is none of the screaming,stupid antics that are part and parcel of US reality tv. Just people who want to bake , in the beautiful countryside. I tape these and watch them with the a/c on, in year 6 of a drought, and marvel at the wonderful greenery.
23
I'm just waiting for the sad day when some American outfit tries (again) to reproduce this show, taking all the low-key, civilized elements to make it more like the other "reality" cooking shows currently seen on television here.
I'll be sure to give that version a miss.
I'll be sure to give that version a miss.
10
They already did and it failed.
4
Enjoyable after a stressful day at the office, this is a very chill show and it's very addictive. Sorry to hear that the team is breaking up...such a nice mix of personalities.
11
After binge-watching all the previous seasons last year, I purchased Berry's "Baking Bible" for my wife. Now, as a new episode premiers, we skim through the book and bake a tasty treat each week. While we are not the best bakers, it has been fun to change our old habits--weighing ingredients, using different types of sugars, etc. One thing I do love is that British recipes are not very sweet, which is a nice change of pace from American recipes. You really have to love butter, though. Man, those Brits do love to pack in the butter!
13
It might seem trite but I love watching this show - not just because I like to bake but because the contestants represent all of Britain. Watching a woman wearing a hijab making traditional British sweets is a welcome antidote to all the haters
34
One of the sweetest and funniest moments of the last season was after Nadiya won (we both actually cheered and applauded - the cats thought we were insane) was when she was holding the prized cake platter and a bouquet of flowers as huge as her smile and pointed to the platter, then herself then waved it all off with get outta here wave. She is one of the most instantly endearing people I have ever seen and, as a fellow Moslem, am so proud of her and continuing groundbreaking achievements. MABROUK!
11
I do hope the 3 women stay together. I suspect if Channel 4 triples the salaries everyone will stay coagulated and stick together like melted sugar on a hot tin pan.
GBBO is the best show ever! If you can believe it....everyone is pleasant, funny and talented (!). Where else can you see a Victorian Tennis Court Cake (complete with net and racquet, please) or Lemon Drizzle cakes layered with lemon curd and made to look like a sari? If you haven't watched this show -- get going! It's heartwarming and full of warm smells and zesty humor.
16
The worst part is that since the show has gone commercial, we in the US may not get to see it, in any form. Let the mourning begin. (And let's hope that Netflix is taking note, where, BTW, a couple of old seasons of TGBBO not shown by PBS can be found.)
8
You can find all 7 seasons on YouTube in their UK versions.
2
Thanks for the tip - I'm going to search them out right now!
1
I love this show and have done from first watching it on Netflix. I actually cry most weeks when the contestant who has to leave is told the sad news - that's how involved I get with these wonderful people. Never would do so with an American-style competition show. The only problem is that my list of "must bake" keeps outpacing the time I have to actually bake them.
11
What a tough decision to make tonight! The debate, or the GBBO? I'm kidding, of course. I'll be watching the Bake Off.
12
Oh, great, I didn't realize it was on!
Unfortunately this show is leaving the BBC. Also most of the talent is leaving the show. A similar thing happened to the show "Top Gear". The top talent there left the show and created a new show called "The Grand Tour". Now all the BBC has is a show called "Top Gear" which is boring. Apparently the BBC can't cope with hit shows.
2
There was a reason the "top talent" left Top Gear, as I recall -- wasn't there a scandal of some kind?
Perhaps the BBC felt it had done enough of the baking show, and the money they got for selling it was more valuable to them.
Perhaps the BBC felt it had done enough of the baking show, and the money they got for selling it was more valuable to them.
The BBC lost the show from the independent production company that owns it because they wouldn't outbid Channel 4. If the political climate had been less hostile to the BBC (the Conservatives regard it as a bastion of liberal values at the tax payers expense) then the BBC would probably have bid more.
1
I watched this show recently with my 88 year old mother, who baked all the time while I was a kid. My parents don't watch much TV, but her eyes and attention were riveted to the screen! It brought joy to my heart.
22
The show has inspired me to take risks, try new things and push myself beyond my comfort zone in baking. Heck, before GBBO, I didn't even realize I had a comfort zone! But the honest feedback and moral support that are the unique characteristics of this show make all of that possible, not just inside the tent but for all of us viewers as well.
15
I watched the show faithfully when we were stationed in The Netherlands and was equally excited when I discovered it was broadcast in the States. I am, however, dismayed that the show has been sold to the Channel 4 where, I am afraid, it will be Hollywoodized and lose its charm.
5
Saddened to hear of the changes coming regarding this terrific show. I've loved watching it here on my local PBS channel. Of course the only constant in life is change but I will miss the lovely, gentle humor of Sue Perkins and Mel Giedroye. The best thing to me about this show is it's less than typical approach to competition giving everyone an opportunity during the journey to succeed. I also love the camaraderie that's so often on display in this show. I sincerely hope that's something that doesn't change.
14
I'm now having sugar cravings.
4
I adore this show partly for sentimental reasons, remembering my college year abroad in the UK. I remember the sense of community among the British. And I enjoy learning about food history.
6
Sense of community! I think you put your finger on it - and that is why we love this show so much!
3
Chetna's final quote is exactly why I watch this show. It's about the food and creativity, not about who's the most obnoxious, who's getting kicked out, who can stab who else in the back. This is probably the only "reality" or competition show worth watching. The contestants are all nice to each other, and they're genuinely sad when one person has to go.
And the food, do I even need to mention it? I end each episode swearing I'm going to make one of the recipes, and I never do.
And the food, do I even need to mention it? I end each episode swearing I'm going to make one of the recipes, and I never do.
17
I simple can't watch the show as my traditional favourites will never be prepared by this new wave of baker – those are delicious Spotted Dick and Bubble & Squeek.
2
Bubble-and-squeak isn't actually baked, but made on the stove top.
I suppose you could make Spotted Dick in the oven, but I believe it also is usually prepared on the stove top.
I suppose you could make Spotted Dick in the oven, but I believe it also is usually prepared on the stove top.
1
There is an Italian version "Bake Off Italia" that is even better. Imagine a German judge (Ernst Knam) telling an Italian contestant that their mother's recipe isnt the best.
4
I do miss the food history bits of the first several seasons (not aired in the US and available to avid trackers-down of illegal recordings). Despite the lack of the history nerdiness, however, the show has always inspired because of the contestants' real camaraderie, the actual focus on the technical points important to the results, Mary Berry's kind critiques and twinkle-eyed humor, and Mel & Sue's corny jokes and obvious care for the contestants. I don't know that I'd go so far as to say Paul Hollywood was a humorless git since editing can change how someone is perceived in the finished version of what's aired, but he has never been a reason for me to tune in.
I'd rather follow whatever new thing Mary, Mel & Sue go on to do.
I'd rather follow whatever new thing Mary, Mel & Sue go on to do.
6
Shows such as this as well as the stellar history of BBC in general is one of Britain's greatest assets, the pinnacle of international soft power and good will that took generations to build. I am sad it's been sold off and worry about the Conservative party's relentless assault on the BBC budget and mission. For a small post-colonial island nation, nothing can be more foolish and shortsighted than curtailing one of its few remaining sources of global influence. Talk about penny-wise and pound-foolish!
I've been listening to World Service for decades now, grew up watching Doctor Who, and rely on shows like The Great British Bake Off to broaden my understanding and appreciation of British history and society. I've visited the UK multiple times now and lived in Edinburgh for 4 months. BBC for me is a continuing connection to those visits and to our mother country's more subtle and dignified ways, especially in this era of Trump. And before someone makes a comparison to English nationalism, Brexit, and Nigel Farage, there is absolutely no comparison to the full-blown catastrophe that is Trump and his followers. Absolutely none!
I've been listening to World Service for decades now, grew up watching Doctor Who, and rely on shows like The Great British Bake Off to broaden my understanding and appreciation of British history and society. I've visited the UK multiple times now and lived in Edinburgh for 4 months. BBC for me is a continuing connection to those visits and to our mother country's more subtle and dignified ways, especially in this era of Trump. And before someone makes a comparison to English nationalism, Brexit, and Nigel Farage, there is absolutely no comparison to the full-blown catastrophe that is Trump and his followers. Absolutely none!
14
This is such a good natured show! The contestants are modest, talented and supportive of each other, and the multiculturalism lifts the spirit. Contrast Top Chef or Chopped where contestants ooze ambition and bad mouth each other.
Watching the show makes me very happy, projecting that the world is maybe not so bad after all.
Watching the show makes me very happy, projecting that the world is maybe not so bad after all.
25
Exactly!
1
I love the show. What is especially appealing is that it is anti-everything that many US cooking contest show are---cutthroat contestants, precocious kids who seem destined to be totally pompous adults, and big money prizes driving everything. The British Bake Off is filled with people who just love to bake; they seem delighted to be in the tent, are invariably ready to help a mate, and they are not doing any of it for big money. The winner gets a cake plate---what is not to love in this?
50
But they shouldn't hand what looks like a glass plate along with other bulky objects to the overwhelmed winner one second after announcing the winner's name.
To me, this is the only show that's worth watching. (Well, not entirely true -- Love Productions has a bunch of other more or less similar shows such as The Great Pottery Throw Down and The Great British Sewing Bee which are quite fun to watch.) What they all have in common is a respect for the contestants, who sometimes actually help fellow participants, are kind to each other. The judges are helpful in their comments, there is good feedback being offered -- no yelling and no imagined rivalries are built for the sake of ratings. It goes to show that being nice is actually a good thing... imagine that! It's basically a let's-have-a-great-time kind of show that happens to have a trophy at the end of the road, almost like an afterthought.
Now, as to Bake Off being moved to Channel 4, I almost understand it. Going after the money is what most will do, given a chance. But Bake Off became more than just a simple show about cakes, and Mary, Mel & Sue saw that. They saw that sometimes business is not just business, and it's not always about the dough. I respect Paul's decision too and I wish him well on Channel 4. I'm just not sure if the show will be the same or not -- I'll have to watch it first. Something has changed in the process though. I'm so not looking forward to the commercials!
Now, as to Bake Off being moved to Channel 4, I almost understand it. Going after the money is what most will do, given a chance. But Bake Off became more than just a simple show about cakes, and Mary, Mel & Sue saw that. They saw that sometimes business is not just business, and it's not always about the dough. I respect Paul's decision too and I wish him well on Channel 4. I'm just not sure if the show will be the same or not -- I'll have to watch it first. Something has changed in the process though. I'm so not looking forward to the commercials!
36
i am baking a cannoli cheesecake this weekend.
let's hope the recipients would have not preferred the gun!
let's hope the recipients would have not preferred the gun!
4
I've been a long time fan, and have even convinced a British friend to send me the current series (7) before it airs on PBS - I just can't wait (also, I read British news daily, and they always discuss what happened on Wednesday's episode).
I think my favorite part is hearing all the different dialects/accents from the UK. We are so used to hearing only "posh" English accents in the states. But oh! I love when there is a Welsh contestant, or a Cornish contestant, someone from Yorkshire, and especially anyone from Scotland! I could listen to them talk all day.
I think my favorite part is hearing all the different dialects/accents from the UK. We are so used to hearing only "posh" English accents in the states. But oh! I love when there is a Welsh contestant, or a Cornish contestant, someone from Yorkshire, and especially anyone from Scotland! I could listen to them talk all day.
26
Barton, you can watch the current series, and many episodes of previous series, on YouTube. I also recommend the companion series to the show, An Extra Slice, as well as Side Dish.
3
It's a great show. It's a shame most of the cast is jumping ship. I hope Mary, Sue, and Mel will reconsider. You can't have a family show without the family.
8
It's a greater shame that Paul chose to stay. I think most fans wish that Paul had declined the offer and huge pay raise, though they (including myself) understand his decision. Paul will be missed when the BBC inevitably offers their own version of the show with Mel, Sue and Mary.
5
Being a noodge--but you wouldn't need to pick buckshot out of a pheasant. There wouldn't be enough pheasant left to make it worth the time.
7
While I like Paul, it will not be the same without his teammates Mary, Sue and Mel. Too bad the series has been sold off. I have been baking for years and still learned quite a bit from the show.
23
One of the things I love about the show is the reward - a cake plate, a bouquet of flowers and congratulations all around for a job well done. They bake for the sheer joy and competition - not for a huge check at the end.
I'm sorry to see the show move from the BBC. Mary, Mel and Sue made that show. Sad.
I'm sorry to see the show move from the BBC. Mary, Mel and Sue made that show. Sad.
72
The whole point of TGBBO is Mary Berry's terrifying gaze. Full stop. Without her it's just about baking.
34
Mary Berry's terrifying gaze, especially if you mess up the booze in the batter and it's too strong.
2
Mary's gaze may be terrifying. Her words, however, are always soft and kind.
10
That's why it's so British. She's being soft with words but every Briton watching her knows she's cutting with a very sharp knife.
2
My friends and I wouldn't miss an episode of GBBO. What a relief from political news! We wish US Presidential candidates would go up against each other in a bake-off which produces something pleasing and useful, rather than doing yadayadayada which accomplishes nothing.
14
Hear! Hear!
4
I love this show...why change any aspect of it? So inspiring, love it!
10
Mel and Sue - their quick and funny little quips - raised that show to perfection. They are the heart of the show, to my way of thinking. Mary and Paul were so good together. Paul unleavened, I'm not so sure how he'll be. I like Paul, but I don't think I'll watch without the others.
4
I honestly can't remember how I stumbled on this show, because baking has always bored me to tears. Now, thanks to the Bake-Off, I think it's magic.
17
Oh, indeed baking is magic. I marvel at the all the myriad results from combinations of flour, sugar, eggs and butter. Western civilization has amazed me.
4
GBBO has brought together my entire class of stressed out, neurotic, second year medical students. We all watch. I find it oddly inspiring, to be honest, and it never fails to make me smile.
27
Three cheers for gentleness and civility. It's such a rare commodity anywhere today. Everything is a battle, or an argument.
58
It's a shame PBS can't broadcast on the same day as the original BBC show. Bake Off is such big news that it's nigh impossible to avoid spoilers over the months' delay.
18
YouTube is your friend. The current series is on there, as well as many episodes from previous series.
5
When I heard that GBBO was leaving Mother Beeb for Channel 4 I was crushed! Crushed like a poorly made merengue that had collapsed under the weight of Mary Berry's perfect vanilla mousse in a Pavlova!
24
This is a show where I sit with a smile on my face the whole time. It is so refreshing. The judges actually respect the bakers, and the bakers like each other. There is only encouragement. The bakers are self effacing and you end up wanting them all to win.
Can't watch the sniping and sarcasm on the Ramsay shows anymore, where contestants are encouraged to be as hostile as possible, and where you really can't stand the judges, who are constantly humiliating the cooks.
There used to be a Top Chef Britain show on BBC America that was similar to the baking show in their interplay between contestants and each other and the judges. Don't know why this country seems to prefer the nastier the better. Will forego any political comments.
Can't watch the sniping and sarcasm on the Ramsay shows anymore, where contestants are encouraged to be as hostile as possible, and where you really can't stand the judges, who are constantly humiliating the cooks.
There used to be a Top Chef Britain show on BBC America that was similar to the baking show in their interplay between contestants and each other and the judges. Don't know why this country seems to prefer the nastier the better. Will forego any political comments.
27
My husband and I binged on GBBO after discovering Season 6 on PBS. I echo other commenters about its refreshing take on baking competitions, so alien to the hype and viciousness of American cooking shows. We loved how the contestants supported each other, the low-key atmosphere, the focus on actual baking, the cleverness of Sue and Mel and the amazing Mary Berry. How very sad that the BBC decided to kill the golden egg-laying goose. Paul Hollywood, unfortunately, will not sustain the wonderful ethos of the show. Off to make a Victoria sponge!
16
The BBC didn't kill the show; Love Productions, who one & produce the show, sold it to the highest bidder Channel 4. The Beeb couldn't afford to pay the $75 million that Love Productions wanted.
I applaud Sue, Mel & Mary's decision to not leave the BBC who had nurtured the show.
I applaud Sue, Mel & Mary's decision to not leave the BBC who had nurtured the show.
3
The BBC didn't kill the show. The production company sold it to the highest bidder, which was Channel 4. The BBC is government funded, and they couldn't meet the price that Channel 4 was offering.
6
The BBC didn't kill the goose, DGG. It was outbid by Channel 4 for the rights to the next series.
Those rights are owned by Love Productions, which, in spite of the name, is majority owned by Rupert Murdoch.
Chances are, Love and Channel 4 are the ones that killed the goose. Without the incomparable Mary Berry, and Mel and Sue, the next season will likely get poor ratings. Meanwhile, the BBC is working on its own format -- probably with Mary, Mel and Sue.
Those rights are owned by Love Productions, which, in spite of the name, is majority owned by Rupert Murdoch.
Chances are, Love and Channel 4 are the ones that killed the goose. Without the incomparable Mary Berry, and Mel and Sue, the next season will likely get poor ratings. Meanwhile, the BBC is working on its own format -- probably with Mary, Mel and Sue.
8
The show without Mary will be missing a key element. She is a great judge while also being very gracious and generous even when some of the contestants' efforts fall short. I'm sad to hear about this.
25
Entertaining show that will lose its allure with this unfortunate move. Nothing succeeds like success until it doesn't.
10
It would be nice if someone at the NYT coddled their American readers and
translated the recipe for the lemon drizzle cake into Fahrenheit (instead of Celsius) and measures of volume instead of weights.
translated the recipe for the lemon drizzle cake into Fahrenheit (instead of Celsius) and measures of volume instead of weights.
6
You can find conversions online, but do yourself a favor and get a scale! It makes it much easier to use a variety of recipes. I will try, but I couldn't guarantee the results.
The recipe calls for 9 oz each of flour, sugar, and butter. So approx. 2 c flour, 1/2 c (one stick) + 1 Tbsp butter, and 1-1/4 c sugar. And about 1/3 c ground almonds.
Bake at 350 F.
The recipe calls for 9 oz each of flour, sugar, and butter. So approx. 2 c flour, 1/2 c (one stick) + 1 Tbsp butter, and 1-1/4 c sugar. And about 1/3 c ground almonds.
Bake at 350 F.
Here you go:
T(°F) = T(°C) × 9/5 + 32
or slightly more accurately, change th 9/5 to 1.8
so
T(°F) = 20°C × 9/5 + 32 = 68 °F
T(°F) = T(°C) × 9/5 + 32
or slightly more accurately, change th 9/5 to 1.8
so
T(°F) = 20°C × 9/5 + 32 = 68 °F
1
Check it again. The oven heat does specify 325 degrees and the measurements are in both cups and grams.
Truly one of the best reality television shows i have ever seen. What a joyful thought that it comes after this miserable election and what may lie ahead.
12
Well it's by far the best cooking show since The Two Fat Ladies, British or otherwise. Sadly, Channel 4 spent a lot of money and didn't get the show's secret sauce in the transaction. It's impossible to imagine it being as entertaining without the original hosts/judges.
23
I miss Two Fat Ladies!
5
I've recommended the program to so many cooking enthusiasts and they all say the same thing: it's so refreshing to see a competition that isn't a "face off" a "throw down" or "a cutthroat" confrontation with "I'm gonna whip your @%#" bluster. It's an honorable, collegial, and inspiring competition between talented individuals who have respect and come to have real affection for each other. It is a real model for cooks and filled with wonderful knowledge for everyone.
20
Yes, the real opposition is the task on the GBBO/GBBS.
1
I love this show! I can't believe it will be the same without Mel and Sue, though. A big part of the magic are these two, so I might be done with it.
7
Bake-Off is a great show - but Victoria sponge, Eccles cake, and Bakewell tarts have always been available in supermarkets in Britain! They are not rarities at all.
2
The product produced by the bakers is the least important part of the show, and usually does not look appetizing to me. It's the interaction of Mel and Sue, and the knowledge of Mary and Paul, and then the combined personalities of all four of them with the contestants, that make a show worth watching. Miles better than any American baking show.
1
Something to keep the tummy happy, and me super-energetic.
1
I absolutely love watching this show! I hope to find the first seasons that weren't shown in the US now that I know PBS started with Season 5. The British names for items are different than what I expected the contestants to make. Who knew that a biscuit would be a cracker or a cookie? The bakers all try their best and don't want to put up anything that is bad. I look forward to when the next season airs and have tried a recipe or two from the show. They are definitely harder than what I normally would make at home.
5
In here eighties, Mary Berry smashes the stereotype of a female on TV
14
Count me in the hobbyist group who loves the subtlety of this show and of the British. It's not just the baking. It's the ordinariness of the people, the comradery, hugs, tears, joy, the families. The graciousness of the judges and simultaneous frankness in their criticism.
We all can benefit from these ordinary displays of simple humanity. We could use more of it in lur own TV programming and beyond.
We all can benefit from these ordinary displays of simple humanity. We could use more of it in lur own TV programming and beyond.
21
So sad that I won't have access to this show. I loved the variety of bakers that were chosen. They came from everywhere and made me think I could do that baking (I can't, but it made me dream). Without the two hostesses and Mary Berry it will definitely lose something. It's a great show, sorry to see it change.
Mary Kay
Mary Kay
2
Just what the world needs: more carbs and sugar. Let's all take up baking and get type 2 diabetes.
That said, I love this show because of the benign, humorous and cooperative spirit , so different from the adversarial rancor on Anerican competition shows.
And NYT: please do not spoil the outcome of the season the way you announced the winner of last season before it aired in the US.
That said, I love this show because of the benign, humorous and cooperative spirit , so different from the adversarial rancor on Anerican competition shows.
And NYT: please do not spoil the outcome of the season the way you announced the winner of last season before it aired in the US.
1
Carbs and sugar in moderation do not cause diabetes. Previous generations ate plenty of both and never gained weight or got diabetes. I speak from experience because my mother baked almost every day and we had fantastic food at home. None of us were fat or have diabetes - as a matter of face, almost no one was obese in the 60s and 70s. The Obesity and diabetes epidemics all happened in the last 20 years. Check out the map from the Centers For Disease control by doing a search on "Maps of Trends in Diagnosed Diabetes and Obesity"
13
Go watch on YouTube, and you'll be in with the "in crowd".
I started watching this show a few weeks back and got hooked.. Besides learning a lot, I was struck by the difference between the American reality shows and this one. No trash talk or whining among the contestants. So refreshing.
12
As the suicidal folly of Brexit destroys our currency and our economy: let them eat cake!
5
I have never in my life felt so riveted about the fate of a baked good and the people making it. I found a copy of a Mary Berry cookbook at the Strand, for my sister, who introduced me to the show. She was delighted, and said, "now I can see Mary Berry's face anytime I want." Needless to say, we love her.
13
The positive vibes and excellent editing make it a terrific show. I can't wait to watch it every week and feel disappointed when the series ends. Crossing my fingers that the new regime won't wreck it. If the bakers start throwing things or competing in a mean way, I'm out.
10
I've absolutely loved watching every season of the Bake-Off - talented and well-mannered contestants year after year; fabulous and disastrous creations; the fantastic and wonderful combination of Mary Berry, Paul Hollywood, Mel and Sue - a fabulous foursome.
It's a shame that Mary, Mel and Sue will no longer be on the show. With so many other British shows on public television, I'm tempted to stop watching this British program. I've done it before, and I know I can do it again. I stopped watching Downton Abbey after they killed of Sybil and Matthew, two of my favorite characters. I missed all subsequent seasons, and discovered I didn't miss a thing.
It's a shame that Mary, Mel and Sue will no longer be on the show. With so many other British shows on public television, I'm tempted to stop watching this British program. I've done it before, and I know I can do it again. I stopped watching Downton Abbey after they killed of Sybil and Matthew, two of my favorite characters. I missed all subsequent seasons, and discovered I didn't miss a thing.
6
I totally love this show. The bakers are attractive, but not Hollywood perfect. They seem to be genuinely nice people.The hosts are adorable. Since PBS shows this 6 months after it is shown in Britain, I watch the most recent episodes on YouTube. It is a great break from the US political scene.
8
Good TV, like good bakery, is all about chemistry, and the alchemical reactions among the four hosts of GBBO will be absent when it goes commercial with only Paul as a holdover, so it will become just another cooking show. Top Gear has been replicated many times, all abysmally; the Monkees could never be The Beetles; and GBBO without Mel & Sue & Mary will be a simulacrum, shadows on the wall, so sad.
13
I'm a diabetic and so can't eat any of this stuff - so I don't make it. Never-the-less, I love this show. It certainly changed my appreciation for just how hard this cooking is. I learned what "well baked" means.
7
a great, actually uplifting show. it has been shown on Wgbh in Boston for a few seasons and, other then the two terrible comedians, everybody on the show - contestants and judges, comes across as just nice folks with an obsession for baking... human, relatable, at times helping their rivals with suggestions.... they are diverse, not just because some are from non-traditionally "British" cultures, but because each is from some different part of the UK, and they come with their unique tastes, preferences, techniques, and tricks... all of which they have to adapt to amazingly complex confections, many from very non-british cultures. the bakers are almost all delightfully nice and a pleasure to watch as they tell us how they will address the next challenge and struggle with unfamiliarity with the intended result 3- harshly judged by Mary and Paul. no back stabbing nonsense, no total incompetence which makes up the bread and butter of Ramsey's awful spectacles.
10
I agree with your thoughts about the show. My partner and I will miss Mary, but not the unfunny Mel and Sue.
2
Wonderful effect of a great show on the baking of my homeland. It has been forty years since I left the scepter'd isle but I have continued to bake my favorites, including Bakewell tarts and Eccles cakes, last year I even attempted a Battenberg. Perhaps if I had stayed home I would have lost such skills? As for those comments critiquing the calorie count, don't demonize foods, just eat reasonable portions of them...and those great desserts are nowhere near as sweet as some "savory" foods in the US. Well, perhaps that's not true for the Battenberg, and I hesitate to guess the calorie count of those piggy pies in the photograph of Zoe Tews counter.
17
I love the baking, the hosts, judges, and incredibly diverse and genuine contestants. They even have snippets of fascinating history about the origins of specific breads, cakes, and pies. Its all about the food, not the personalities. And as the personalities emerge, its clear that they are everyday people who put their energy into baking for their families, friends, and co-workers rather than the many less productive, constructive, and creative things that they could do instead. They are great role models for the rest of us.
49
Just think, a TV show imaginative enough to put an 80-year-old woman in a lead role, confident that viewers will find her just as interesting as everyone else. Even if that were all, I'd love the show just for that.
Ditto for the mix of ages, ethnicities, and backgrounds in the contestants. Who knows what remains on the cutting room floor, but I haven't seen any grandstanding or whining, and I doubt it would be tolerated. And best of all, none of this is highlighted or show-offy. The focus truly is all on the baking.
I'm sorry it's left the BBC - why was more money needed? I wish Paul Hollywood the best, but I guess we won't be seeing the new show over here on PBS. I wonder if PBS can get the first three seasons, which apparently weren't aired here? I'd watch 'em, for sure!
Ditto for the mix of ages, ethnicities, and backgrounds in the contestants. Who knows what remains on the cutting room floor, but I haven't seen any grandstanding or whining, and I doubt it would be tolerated. And best of all, none of this is highlighted or show-offy. The focus truly is all on the baking.
I'm sorry it's left the BBC - why was more money needed? I wish Paul Hollywood the best, but I guess we won't be seeing the new show over here on PBS. I wonder if PBS can get the first three seasons, which apparently weren't aired here? I'd watch 'em, for sure!
118
I used to share an office with Mary in the seventies and, apart from the fact she is a very talented home economist, she is an exceptionally nice person.
7
I believe Netflix also airs the Bake Off.
1
Sarah Not sure how long you've been watching cooking shows on TV, but you might recall a very popular American cook named Julia Child (with deep Massachusetts roots) cooked on Public Television from 1963-2000, and through her eighties, from 1992-2000, introduced and shared her kitchen with America's first generation of celebrity chefs, from Alice Waters and Emeril Lagasse to her Jacques Pepin, now in his 80s. Watch the continuing re-broadcasts of Julia and Jacques Cooking at Home. they are still fresh, charming and full of terrific cooking and teaching.
8
GBBO is wonderful for so many reasons, but there are to things that stand out for me. The first is that the prize for the inner is a bouquet of flowers and an engraved glass cake stand. Not a million dollars or a TV deal, but a cake stand. The honor of winning was the big prize. The second reason is the gentleness of the competition. They actually help each other and encourage each other. The two lame versions that were attempted by American production companies were embarrassing by comparison, featuring a thoroughly unlikable winner in the first attempt and thoroughly unlikable hosts in the second. I will stay with Mel and Sue and Mary ant e BBC. Rumor has it that the BBC has hired Nadya to join them for a new knock off. I can hardly wait.
81
Nadiya was my favorite from the start
8
Totally agree TD. I am constantly mentioning to my fairly uninterested husband the difference between American cooking shows and GBBO, particularly the kindness the competitors show toward each other. In their short interviews, they are always praising the competition rather than knocking it down (as in Chopped and its ilk.)
5
I love that show and am very sad that it will leave the BBC (and presumably, therefore, PBS). It's hard to say exactly why I am so drawn to it. I do bake, some, but it is the mix of competition, the people, and the atmosphere of comradeship. There is no yelling at participants as there is on those awful chef shows, but true empathy for missteps and failures. And - I enjoy seeing the creativity and possibility of what one can do with various recipes.
93
I have never watched cooking shows (or "reality" shows of any kind) but stumbled on this one and got hooked! It is such a hoot, with thoroughly enjoyable interactions among the participants and judges, and that attractively simple, village fete setting. My only (very minor) complaint is all these ordinary people being so accomplished and creative, and coming up with such elaborate pastries and dishes, that it makes me feel my own cooking abilities are utterly pedestrian.
43
Bake off is such a refreshing contrast to often mean spirited US cooking contests. Bake Off contestants are pleasant, interesting, appear to have fun and often reach out to help each other. Every episode puts a smile on my face.
212
Couldn't agree more!!! No nastiness, great information, what a lovely change. It's so difficult to find programming like this.... TV producers please take note, there is huge demand for quality shows with usable content and a good dash of clean humor !
11
One night, right after I had watched an episode of the Bake Off, I saw an episode of "Hell's Kitchen." The contrast was so sharp. Hell's Kitchen's contestants, and the judge himself, were mean-spirited and foul mouthed. The contestants said horrible things to each other. At the Bake Off I was left with the impression that everyone wanted everyone to win, even though that could not happen. They supported and cheered each other on and were genuinely sad when a contestant left.
2
I love GBBO because it really is all about the baking, without the typical reality show histrionics. At first I didn't think I would want to watch without Mel, Sue, and Mary, but I heard that Richard Ayoade might join the show. That might make it worth a go!
26
One of my most favorite shows. I too appreciate the fact that this is a family show with no foul language and interesting, every day English people. The judges are kindness itself when offering their critiques and no demoralizing as American cook off shows are. The other contrast is the simplicity of the show's presentation of the actual preparations of each baker in a low key way, not accompanied by jarring, loud music or false representations of suspense, but as each baker goes on.
This is a baking show as baking should be presented (I am a retired baker) and not at all catering to the No Crowd of no sugar, no fats, which is not baking at all. If you want healthy, don't watch this show, but if you want to watch talented everyday people prepare awesome creations, then yes, this show is it.
With the sale to Channel 4 and the loss of 3 of the most engaging hosts ever, I cannot expect the superb quality and low key presentation to continue; much to the audience's dismay.
Anyone know if and when DVDs of all 6 seasons might come available in the US? I for one would dearly like to have them to watch again.
This is a baking show as baking should be presented (I am a retired baker) and not at all catering to the No Crowd of no sugar, no fats, which is not baking at all. If you want healthy, don't watch this show, but if you want to watch talented everyday people prepare awesome creations, then yes, this show is it.
With the sale to Channel 4 and the loss of 3 of the most engaging hosts ever, I cannot expect the superb quality and low key presentation to continue; much to the audience's dismay.
Anyone know if and when DVDs of all 6 seasons might come available in the US? I for one would dearly like to have them to watch again.
137
I would love to see all of the series. Why not make them available to the US audience?
36
They are-- on PBS.
I loved this show. I loved the contestants from all walks of life. I loved watching the creative process. And I loved the countryside where they located the tent.
I loved this show. I loved the contestants from all walks of life. I loved watching the creative process. And I loved the countryside where they located the tent.
7
I believe season 1 and 2 are on Netflix.
1
I watched the show for some time and then stopped completely in digust! It is the least healthy baking show I have ever seen. It doesn't belong on prime time in our nation of unhealthy eaters. All refined flour, refined sugars, and plenty of butter or other fats. There is nothing that interests me there.
PBS is wasting my contributions and promoting bad health.
PBS is wasting my contributions and promoting bad health.
2
No one's recommending dessert three times a day; everything in moderation. And all the dishes made are from scratch with pure ingredients. No Twinkies here! Eating dessert improves the disposition and saves on psychiatry bills.
183
Every day there are millions of people celebrating birthdays, and there are special occasions throughout the calendar, all worthy of baked treats, but you're offended because PBS doesn't personalize their programming specifically for you? Bah humbug.
154
I don't watch it with the intention of making the treats that they bake. I imagine that a lot of the ingredients are not easy to find in the US. I like the commeradery of the baking group, the hosts and the judges. Everyone is sad when someone is eliminated. I find myself wishing that they'd all become actors so I can see them again.
26
What a great show,you like all the people not the angst of all those American cooking shows. "it's my last chance I can't lose" crap. I hope the new owners don't change it but I have my doubts.
54