Introducing the 2024 Top Bakers - Bake from Scratch

      In the realm of baking, where flour and sugar become artistic creations, the Greatest Baker 2024 competition stands as a celebration of enthusiasm and intention. Organized by Colossal, this yearly event unites a varied group of bakers, all keen to claim the prestigious title, secure a $20,000 prize, and enjoy a moment with Brian Hart Hoffman in the Bake from Scratch test kitchen. However, the significance of this contest extends beyond the thrill of competition and sweet prizes—it's fundamentally about raising awareness and funds for The Andrew McDonough B+ Foundation, an organization committed to aiding families with children courageously fighting cancer.

      “The Greatest Baker competition is not solely about exceptional sweets—it highlights the remarkable individuals behind them,” says Brian. “These bakers are overflowing with talent and compassion, reminding us that baking transcends mere craft; it is a vocation. Through their passion, we also support a vital cause—helping children and families confront unimaginable challenges with resilience, hope, and love.”

      As the scent of freshly baked goods permeates the air, the Greatest Baker competition serves as a reminder that baking is more than just a culinary skill; it is a means for positive change, a way to impact lives and inspire hope. Through flour-dusted aprons and sugar-sweetened smiles, these bakers have crafted not only delightful desserts but also contributed to a legacy of encouragement and support for those in need.

      The Greatest Baker competition is managed by Colossal, the country’s foremost professional fundraiser, on behalf of DTCare, a U.S. 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Thanks to the competition, Colossal has successfully raised over $6 million for The Andrew McDonough B+ Foundation.

      The recipes featured here were contributed by the winner of the Greatest Baker and the finalists. These recipes have not been tested or modified by Bake from Scratch. As with any home baking experience, outcomes may differ—and we always encourage bakers to approach new recipes with curiosity and care.

      **The 2024 Greatest Bakers Visit the Bake from Scratch Test Kitchen**

      Ali Stanko finds pleasure in the sweet and simple aspects of baking, particularly when it brings people together. By day, she works as a human resources manager and accounts receivable specialist, but in her free time, she bakes nostalgic and comforting desserts for family and friends.

      Her initial inspiration came from her mother, who created every birthday cake in their home, and from watching marathons of Cake Boss. “I always helped my mom,” she shares. “She’s the most imaginative person I know, and I’ve learned so much from her.”

      Ali’s baking style is creative, cozy, nostalgic, and playful. She enjoys making cupcakes, bakes with butter, and leans on tips passed down through generations—like her grandmother Kate’s applesauce secret for keeping cakes moist. Using room temperature ingredients is essential for her.

      In the kitchen, she collaborates with her boyfriend, Garrett, who focuses on savory dishes while she takes care of desserts. In five years, she aims to establish her own baking brand, and in ten years? Perhaps a cookbook or an actual bakery. Regardless of her future, she hopes to continue doing what she loves while working at her family business.

      When not baking, Ali cherishes spending time with loved ones and her dog, Dakota. Whether enjoying a pedicure with her friend Kaisa or hanging out with Garrett’s family, she expresses, “I’m surrounded by the best people I know. They make everything enjoyable.”

      **HER BAKING ADVICE?** “Start simple and have fun. Mistakes are part of the journey.”

      At 24, Nayelli Cuevas serves as a pastry cook and server at a golf resort in North Carolina. Her passion for baking did not start with sweets but with savory dishes—watching her mother and relatives instinctively prepare vibrant meals. “They never used recipes, which fascinated me,” she explains. “But I needed a bit more structure, so I turned to baking.”

      The transition was seamless. Baking provided both the guidelines she desired and room for exploration. She began experimenting with various recipes, experiencing pure joy when her creations were well-received by her family. “The comfort I found in baking truly made me happy,” she reflects.

      She trained at Johnson & Wales University, describing her baking style as experimental, artistic, playful, and indulgent. Her go-to flavor tip? A hint of instant coffee in chocolate pastries to enhance richness. She makes signature dishes such as tamales and banana chocolate espresso muffins. Her dream is to someday open her own bakery—name still to be determined.

      If given the chance to bake with anyone, it would be pastry icon Amaury Guichon. “His work is phenomenal. I would love to learn to create at that level.” Outside of baking, Nayelli enjoys spending time at the gym, at the beach, or with her friends and family.

      **Final