The Great British Bake Off is back, and once again, excitement is bubbling as a brand-new set of bakers prepare to face the heat of the famous white tent.
Last year’s edition had all the drama you’d expect—brilliant showstoppers, nail-biting eliminations, and even a winner who almost bowed out at the semi-final stage.
So the big question is: how do you top a season like that?
Judge Dame Prue Leith admits she asks herself the same thing each year.
“I always think it can’t possibly get better,” she says. “But somehow, it does.
” Co-host Alison Hammond agrees, describing the show as “magical” and confessing that even her own clumsy mishaps add to the fun.
Meet the Class of 2025
This year’s hopefuls range in age from 23 to 59 and come from all walks of life.
Among them are a medical student, an office assistant, and an advertising consultant, alongside engineers, designers, and even stylists.
According to Prue, the mix of technical and creative minds often shows in the way contestants build and decorate their bakes.
And, of course, they’re all chasing the footsteps of Georgie Grasso, last year’s winner and the first Welsh baker to take the crown.
New Themes and Old Controversies
Bake Off thrives on tradition but never shies away from introducing fresh challenges.
This year brings two new themes: Back To School Week, where Alison embraces her inner teacher with glee, and Meringue Week, which stirs memories of the infamous “Bin-gate” incident from 2014.
Fans may recall when Iain Watters’ Baked Alaska ended up in the bin after being briefly removed from the freezer, sparking outrage—even making it to Newsnight.
While this year’s contestants face a tricky Vacherin Glacé (French ice cream cake), Prue hints at another freezer-related fiasco, cheekily dubbing it “Bin-gate 2.”
Challenges That Raise the Stakes
As ever, the series kicks off with Cake Week.
Contestants must create intricate Swiss rolls with inlaid designs, attempt fondant fancies without recipes, and finish with a globe-trotting showstopper inspired by landscapes around the world.
Alison, now in her third year of presenting, admits she’s learned to read Paul Hollywood’s reactions before he even speaks.
“If the cake doesn’t spring back when he prods it, I know what’s coming,” she laughs.
Staying Disciplined Around Temptation
Being surrounded by sugary masterpieces isn’t easy, especially for Alison, who has shed more than 11 stone after reversing a pre-diabetic diagnosis.
She manages her sweet tooth by tasting only the bakes that win praise from the judges.
“If it doesn’t get a handshake, I’m not trying it,” she jokes.
Prue, on the other hand, swears by skipping breakfast and lunch, saving her calories for cake and a glass of wine at supper.
“It’s the perfect diet during Bake Off,” she says with a grin.
A Milestone Moment
This year’s season marks the show’s 150th episode—a reminder of just how deeply Bake Off has baked itself into British culture.
Prue believes the format is timeless.
“Once it hit 50 episodes, you knew it could go on forever,” she says.
Alison agrees: “It’s simple. It’s cake, bakers with a story, and friendship. That’s why it works.”
A Friendship Beyond the Tent
Since Alison joined in 2023, she and Prue have forged a strong bond.
Both Aquarians, they share a playful, adventurous spirit.
Alison describes Prue as tireless and inspiring, while Prue praises Alison’s infectious energy, even joking that her positivity can brighten Paul Hollywood’s grumpiest days.
At 85, Prue admits arthritis is creeping in, but she refuses to slow down.
Meditation and mindfulness aren’t her style—she prefers to keep moving, working, and laughing.
Looking Ahead: More Work, More Life
Despite occasional talk of retirement, Prue isn’t ready to leave Bake Off just yet.
Outside the tent, she has toured a one-woman show, written cookbooks, starred on The Masked Singer, and continued to campaign for assisted dying laws, inspired by her brother’s death.
Alison’s schedule is equally packed.
Alongside Bake Off and This Morning, she fronts For The Love of Dogs, has co-written her first novel, and recently filmed a travel show with her son, Aidan.
While she insists she’s “too scared” for Celebrity Race Across The World, she’s open to more travel adventures.
Life Beyond the Spotlight
Off-camera, Alison is embracing happiness in her personal life with her younger partner, David Putman, and celebrated her 50th birthday in style with a romantic New York trip.
Prue, meanwhile, is working on a book titled Being Old… Or Staying the Right Side of the Grass, proving she has no plans to lose her trademark wit.
Together, Alison and Prue embody what Bake Off is all about—joy, creativity, and friendship.
And as the tent reopens for another series, fans can be certain of one thing: plenty of flour, fun, and unforgettable drama are on the menu.
The Great British Bake Off returns to Channel 4 next month.
