When the Food Network competition started, nine teams sought to capture the coveted baking cup. As they journeyed through iconic scenes from the Harry Potter series, baking team after team lost their magic quest. With just two baking teams left, who earned the coveted Harry Potter Wizards of Baking winner title?
In the previous episode, the bakers were inspired by Dumbledore’s office. Earning the win in that challenge and an advantage in the finale was Team Jordan and Zoe. After not winning a challenge all season, the judges raved over their attention to detail. From the intricacies in their gears to the illusion dessert, it was a showstopper.
The other finalist, Team Juan and Elizabeth, wowed with their interpretation of the Phoenix. Although there were some technical issues with their tasting elements, it edged out the other team.
For the Harry Potter Wizards of Baking finale, the two teams had to present a showpiece worthy of the Great Hall location. In addition to having to be six-feet tall, the finale piece needed have two enchanting elements and two tasting elements. Even with 10 hours, it was a tall task for the bakers.
Team Jordan and Zoe chose Christmas feast and the Yule Ball celebrations at the Great Hall for their theme. The traditional approach relied on realistic visuals and strong tasting elements tied to the theme. Their enchanting elements included moving elements and a touch of snow.
Overall, their design was full of elements and details. The amount of techniques in one piece was truly stunning. From defying gravity to illusion cakes, it was stunning. It was clearly magical and almost a piece of modern art.
The tasting elements played into the theme well. From the cranberry and orange to the eggnog and gingerbread, there was warmth, coziness, and heart woven into each of the elements. It captured that celebratory, nostalgic sentiment.
Team Juan and Elizabeth choose the O.W.L. Exams as their theme. From the dragon emerging from the room to the falling educational decrees, the detailed elements made the scene pop. It almost seemed like a doll’s house.
Overall, there is a great range of techniques. The high point was the carved dragon cake. It captured an iconic scene, and it was well-thought out.
For the tasting elements, the first piece was an entremets that brought together chocolate and coffee. There is a lovely balance of bitter and sweet. The second piece was a chocolate whiskey cake that felt quite rich. The crunch from the pecan was smart.
The two finalist presented spectacular finale showpieces. They were grand and yet intricate. Overall, the tasting elements were equally as magical.
In the end, the Harry Potter Wizards of Baking winner was Team Jordan and Zoe. Their showpiece looked as if it were the perfect set piece for the Grand Hall. Additionally, the flavors seamlessly blended into that moment.
Want to rewatch the season? All episodes can be streamed on MAX. The cookbook featuring the winning recipe will be published in 2025.