Everything You Need to Know About Kids Baking Championship Season 13: Premiere Date, Judges, Contestants, and Latest Updates

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Kids Baking Championship is gearing up for an exhilarating 13th season titled Amazing Animals, set to premiere this January. Since its debut in 2015, this beloved Food Network show has captivated audiences by showcasing some of the most talented young bakers from across the nation. In addition to competitive episodes, fans look forward to nostalgic reunion specials that often feature returning contestants, highlighting their growth and culinary journey.

Traditionally led by Valerie Bertinelli and Duff Goldman, this season marks a significant transition as Valerie has been removed from the judging panel due to budget cuts. Her absence will undoubtedly be felt, as she was a cherished figure on the show, known for her warm support of the young contestants. As viewers anticipate the new season, it promises to bring fresh excitement and challenges.

Kids Baking Championship Season 13 Latest News

Valerie Bertinelli Won’t Be Returning To Kids Baking Championship

In a heartfelt announcement in January 2024, Valerie revealed her departure from the show, citing the impacts of budget constraints. This news saddened many fans who have long appreciated her nurturing presence in the competition. While the search for her replacement began, details of her successor remained scarce.

Fast forward to October 2024, and Kardea Brown stepped into the role. Previously, Kardea had co-hosted various reunion specials, lending her passionate energy to the baking challenges. In her announcement, she expressed her gratitude for the opportunity, noting the importance of her early career in children’s social services and her deep love for working with kids.

During an episode of The Drew Barrymore Show on November 4, 2024, Kardea and Valerie discussed the transition. Valerie endorsed Kardea, stating she was confident Kids Baking Championship is in good hands. The pair shared a heartwarming moment, reminiscing about their love for the young bakers featured on the show.

This season will also introduce an exciting animal-inspired theme, Amazing Animals. Following previous themes like “Bake to School”and “Business,”the new direction is sure to entice viewers with a fresh array of creative culinary challenges.

Kids Baking Championship Season 13 Premiere Date

The Latest Installment Of The Culinary Competition Show Premieres In January

Spring Baking Championship stars Kardea Brown looking annoyed & Duff Goldman smiling — Custom Image by César García

Mark your calendars! Kids Baking Championship season 13 is set to make its debut on Monday, January 6, 2025, at 8 p.m. EST on Food Network, with episodes available for streaming the next day on Max. This season will offer ten thrilling episodes, each filled with delightful baking challenges.

The premiere will feature a jungle-themed atmosphere welcoming 12 budding bakers, with a special appearance by a parrot named Chicken and a cockatoo named Teva. The inaugural challenge will invite contestants to create a tart that mimics animal textures, incorporating features like scales and feathers, with an added twist of crafting an edible tail.

Kids Baking Championship Season 13 Hosts & Judges

Kardea Brown Takes Valerie Bertinelli’s Place Alongside Duff Goldman

Kids Baking Championship Season 13 Hosts Duff Goldman and Kardea Brown Smiling At The Judges' Table

In the upcoming season, Kardea Brown will officially join Duff Goldman as both co-host and judge of Kids Baking Championship. Known for her popular show, Delicious Miss Brown, Kardea brings a wealth of experience from her prior roles in the Kids Baking Championship reunion specials and other baking competitions.

Duff Goldman, a staple of the show since its inception, will continue to guide the young bakers with his expertise and charm. Beyond Kids Baking Championship, he’s made a name for himself through shows like Ace of Cakes and his judging roles in various competitions on the Food Network.

Kids Baking Championship Season 13 Cast

The Child Bakers Are From The United States & Canada

This season, 12 talented young bakers from the United States and Canada will showcase their skills. Participants include:

Noah Azeez (Toronto, Canada)
Brooklyn Barrett (Orlando, FL)
Ella Hayek (Ann Arbor, MI)
Aria Karayil (Danville, CA)
Piper Lowe (Kansas City, KS)
Micah Parsons (Stephenville, TX)
Pierce Sario (Atlanta, GA)
Carter Siporin (Perkasie, PA)
Ellvie Smith (Attalla, AL)
Carly Van Pelt (Lake Geneva, WI)
Jack Whalen (West Richland, WA)
Arielle Yang (Sandy, UT)

Kids Baking Championship Season 13 Finale Date & Grand Prize

The Kids Baking Championship Season 13 Finale Airs in March

Fans eagerly await the season finale, scheduled for Monday, March 3, where the final three bakers will showcase their creative talents by crafting zoo-themed cakes. The judging panel, led by Duff and Kardea, will determine who walks away with the coveted title of Kids Baking Champion.

The winner will not only gain the prestigious title but will also be featured in Food Network Magazine and awarded a grand prize of $25,000. Previous champions have gone on to carved impressive careers in culinary arts, making this competition a significant opportunity for young talents.

As Kids Baking Championship season 13 prepares to unfold, the exciting animal theme and new judging panel promise to elevate the stakes and deliver unforgettable moments. Will the young bakers rise to the challenge? Tune in to find out!

Kids Baking Championship season 13 premieres on Monday, January 6, 2025, at 8 p.m. EST on Food Network.

Sources: Kardea Brown/Instagram, Food Network

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