Overview
“Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking” is an exciting new baking competition series that combines the magical world of Harry Potter with the art of baking. Here’s a comprehensive guide to get you ready for this enchanting show.
Premiere and Availability
The series premieres on November 14, 2024, at 8|7c on the Food Network. It will also be available to stream on the same date via Max and discovery+[2][4].
Hosts and Judges
The show is hosted by James and Oliver Phelps, who famously portrayed Fred and George Weasley in the Harry Potter film series. The culinary judges include Carla Hall and Jozef Youssef, who will evaluate the contestants’ creations alongside special guest judges from the Harry Potter franchise[1][3][4].
Special Guest Judges
In addition to the regular judges, the show features special guest judges who are alumni of the Harry Potter films. These include Warwick Davis (Professor Flitwick and Griphook), Evanna Lynch (Luna Lovegood), and Bonnie Wright (Ginny Weasley). These guests will not only judge the bakes but also share their own stories and anecdotes from the films[2][3][4].
Competition Format
The competition involves nine teams of pastry chefs and cake artists who will be tasked with creating spellbinding edible showpieces inspired by various moments and themes from the Harry Potter saga. Here are some of the challenges you can expect:
- Diagon Alley Challenge: Teams must create fifty identical handheld desserts inspired by the different shops in Diagon Alley. These desserts must be presented with an interactive, magical effect, and the winners will be chosen by both the judges and a crowd of Harry Potter fans[1].
- Forbidden Forest Challenge: Teams will have to create a 3-foot-tall grand showpiece that celebrates the dark arts. One of the tasting elements must have at least 10 layers and feature an enchanting effect that appears to defy gravity[1].
Filming Locations
The show is filmed at Leavesden, the home of the Harry Potter film series, using iconic sets such as The Burrow, The Great Hall, and Gringotts Wizarding Bank. This setting is designed to inspire the contestants and add to the magical atmosphere of the competition[5].
Episodes and Duration
The series consists of six episodes, each featuring different challenges and themes from the Harry Potter universe[4].
Most Important Facts
- Premiere Date: November 14, 2024, at 8|7c on Food Network and available to stream on Max and discovery+[2][4].
- Hosts: James and Oliver Phelps (Fred and George Weasley)[1][3][4].
- Judges: Carla Hall and Jozef Youssef, with special guest judges including Warwick Davis, Evanna Lynch, and Bonnie Wright[2][3][4].
- Competition Format: Teams create Harry Potter-themed desserts with magical effects, judged by both culinary experts and special guests[1].
- Filming Locations: Leavesden, using sets like The Burrow, The Great Hall, and Gringotts Wizarding Bank[5].
- Number of Episodes: Six episodes in the first season[4].
Get ready to immerse yourself in the magical world of Harry Potter through the art of baking with “Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking.”