The beloved U.K. television series The Great British Bake Off (or The Great British Baking Show, for U.S. and Canadian viewers) has become an international cultural phenomenon since it first premiered in 2010.
Featuring two hosts, two judges, and 12 amateur bakers, the show is divided into three segments, or “challenges”: First, there’s the signature bake, which allows the bakers to demonstrate their abilities using classic tried-and-tested recipes. Then, there’s the technical bake, where the bakers are given the ingredients and a scant set of instructions for a specific recipe that’s judged blind. And finally, there’s the showstopper bake, the grand finale that encourages the bakers to pull out all the stops and “wow” the judges by showing off their full set of skills.
At the end of most episodes, one competitor is awarded the coveted title of “Star Baker” while another competitor is eliminated from the competition. As the field narrows and the tension increases, viewers grow attached to the contestants and become emotionally invested in cheering for their favorite(s).
With contestants ranging in age from 17 to 71, GBBO has appealed to a wide demographic of fans and inspired home bakers around the world to get creative in the kitchen. More than a decade after its premiere, the show continues to win the hearts of viewers who tune in for the gentle camaraderie among the bakers, the inventiveness of the bakes, and the banter between the presenters, judges, and contestants.
Here are 14 quotes that highlight the appeal of this heartwarming, humorous show — as well as the rollercoaster of emotions that can come with baking under pressure.
I’m coming out as a new person after this competition; I became more confident and I trust my instinct. We can do anything we want as long as we give all of our heart and work for it.Syabira Yusoff, contestant (Series 13)
I’m never, ever going to put boundaries on myself ever again. I’m never going to say, “I can’t do it.” I’m never going to say, “Maybe.” I’m never going to say, “I don’t think I can.” I can and I will.Nadiya Hussain, contestant (Series 6)
My objective for this week is to survive.Giuseppe Dell’Anno, contestant (Series 12)
It’s the weirdest feeling, because you put [in] all this time and this energy, and at the end of the day it’s biscuit or it’s cake or something that you eat — but it means so much.Tasha Stones, contestant (Series 14)
I ran the 800 meters once at school but waited for a friend on the last lap. That’s how not competitive I am.Sandy Docherty, contestant (Series 6)
As a stay-at-home parent, sometimes you don’t get to feel very special or important, so it’s been quite nice to do something for me.Dan Beasley-Harling, contestant (Series 9)
It’s not a mess; it’s informal.Mary Berry, judge
There’s no point not being happy at this point, so let’s stay happy.Peter Sawkins, contestant (Series 11)
I really enjoyed being here. I made friends for life and I will be with them in spirit.Jürgen Krauss, contestant (Series 12)
When you bake, you always bake for a reason. You’re giving it to people, so you make it the best you can. You make it with love.Val Stones, contestant (Series 7)
You only have to be not the worst.Prue Leith, judge
Always do your best. And everybody’s best is different. You can’t always be the best, but you can always do your best.Janet Basu, contestant (Series 2)
I thought this would never really happen to a boy like me … But it’s bigger than me. Being able to get here, it shows other young boys and young girls from the same background that they can also do it.Sandro Farmhouse, contestant (Series 13)
You can’t be worried about these things, ’cause it’s done. And I can’t do anything about it. So you’ve got to enjoy the moment. Keep smiling. ’Cause that’s what life’s all about, isn’t it?Nicky Laceby, contestant (Series 14)
Featured image credit: M. Unal Ozmen/ Shutterstock
