Emmy-nominated 'Kids Baking Championship' returns with dozen young bakers competing in challenges inspired by best parts of school year

New season premieres Monday, Jan. 1

Press Release

On Monday, Jan. 1 (8 p.m. ET/PT), Food Network’s Emmy-nominated competition series “Kids Baking Championship” returns for a new season.

For the first time, Valerie Bertinelli and Duff Goldman welcome a dozen kid bakers to take on baking challenges inspired by the best parts of the school year. Throughout the 10-episode competition, the young bakers must create the latest dessert trends and most popular sweets in difficult challenges with a school twist. From picture day portrait cakes to blondies that celebrate the most popular recess game, hopscotch, and to cafeteria lunch dessert imposters, they must showcase their baking knowledge by making the most delicious and visually-stunning treats imaginable. Only one incredible young baker will become head of the class and graduate with a $25,000 grand prize, a spot in Food Network Magazine, and the title of “Kids Baking Champion.”

“School serves as a social hub, a space for learning, and a nurturing ground where children face challenges and foster growth – making it the ideal theme for the new season of ‘Kids Baking Championship.’ The new challenges capture the essence of the school experience with every dessert,” said Betsy Ayala, head of content, food, Warner Bros. Discovery.

On the premiere, the kid contestants must show off their talents as they make cakes in honor of every kid’s favorite day of school – picture day! Each cake must have an edible photo on top along with emoji designs that showcase each baker’s hobbies.

Throughout the season, the young bakers show off their skills and creativity as they whip up irresistible sweets, full of flavor and school year fun.

On Monday, Feb. 26, it’s the final two episodes of the competition. At 8 p.m., Valerie and Duff challenge the four remaining kid contestants to see who has the most school spirit with a tie-dye doughnuts and ice cream competition. Three bakers earn spots in the grand finale at 9 p.m., where they face the toughest challenge yet to make a championship-worthy volcano cake for the school science fair. Not only do the cakes need to look realistic, but they must erupt, too! One baker with the best all-around volcano cake will win the grand prize and title of “Kids Baking Champion.”

“Kids Baking Championship” competitors include: Andy Coyle (Redwood City, California; age 11), Levi Dubner (Boca Raton, Florida; age 13), Anaiah Hodges (Manvel, Texas; age 10), Leland Jackson (Ann Arbor, Michigan; age 12), Jaime Lee (Yorktown, Virginia; age 11), Madison Lendor (Monroe, New York; age 10), Henry Muranaka (Bountiful, Utah; age 11), Tasi Savage (Kona, Hawaii; age 12), Lila Smethurst (San Antonio; age 11), Elsie Stark (Abilene, Texas; age 9), Oscar Stowell (Ross, California; age 12), and Camryn Williams (Charlotte, North Carolina; age 11).

Fans can relive the most dramatic, creative, and adorable moments with video and photo highlights at FoodNetwork.com/KidsBakingChampionship. Plus, go behind the scenes with Duff and Valerie for an exclusive tour of the set, watch as they react to past seasons, and discover more baking tips and tricks. Follow all the action on social media using #KidsBakingChampionship.