A baking victory

The British Chamber of Commerce’s Brussels Bake Off drew a large crowd of eager bakers and tasters on October 27. Raising money for charity has never tasted so good, with this year’s proceeds going to YouthStart, which encourages under-privileged youth entrepreneurship through training and coaching with business and industry professionals. Organised by the Chamber’s Brussels New Generation initiative, it was the perfect event to have a little friendly competition and the chance to enjoy tasty goodies.

Participants were greeted with an array of culinary delights and a sense of excitement and hunger in the air. There were four categories: cakes, pies, European goodies and Belgian-inspired treats, and while judges sampled, guests had a chance to admire the artistry and detail that had gone into the entries. From Halloween-inspired cakes to sweet apple fries and a totally raw cake, there was a bake for every discerning palate. As the chefs and experts retreated to decide on their winners, it was time to grab a plate and fork and get stuck in.

Once the guests had had their fill of taste bud-tantalising deliciousness, Lena Bondue, director of YouthStart, thanked everyone for coming and spoke about the importance of YouthStart for today’s youngsters. Uzma Lodhi, head of communications at the British Chamber, said: "Brussels New Generation understands the importance of connecting expats with the local community while working with local charities, and in the second year of the bake off, the level of interest and enthusiasm by the teams has blown us away. We were completely bowled over to have more than 30 teams compete this year! We're quite excited about the results and are eagerly looking forward to 2015.”

Results:

Pies: runner-up – The Girl Frydays, winner – Sugar crush

Belgian specialities: runner-up – BABulous Bakers, winner - Macarooohthatsgood

European goodies: runner-up – Legally Baked, winner – DLAlicious

Cakes: runner-up – The Rolling Scones, winner – The Paul Hollywood Fan Club