Watch Haunted Gingerbread Showdown

Haunted Gingerbread Showdown is a riveting reality competition series that first premiered on Food Network in November 2018. Hosted by the charming and witty Clinton Kelly, the show features talented bakers competing against one another to create spooky and haunting gingerbread houses. The show is judged by a panel of three renowned pastry chefs - Jamika Pessoa, Jason Smith, and Zac Young, who offer their expert feedback on the contestants' creations.

The show comprises six 60-minute episodes that feature four contestants battling each other in three rounds per episode. The first round is called the "Mini Challenge," in which the bakers have to make small treats, such as cookies or candies, that complement their gingerbread house theme. The second round is the "Sculpture Challenge," in which the bakers are tasked with making a life-size gingerbread sculpture of two to three feet based on their theme. The third and final round is the "Showdown Challenge," in which the surviving contestants have to create a full-scale haunted gingerbread house.

The haunted gingerbread houses produced on this show are not the charming, lovely gingerbread houses that you expect to see during Christmas time. Instead, these houses are dark, spooky, and downright scary. From zombie-infested graveyards to haunted forests, the bakers' imaginations run wild, and the creativity on display is truly impressive. The elaborate and intricate designs of the gingerbread houses are a testament to the contestants' skills, and one cannot help but be captivated by their creativity.

Throughout the competition, the judges keep a close eye on the contestants to ensure they stick to the theme while also showcasing their unique styles. The judges evaluate the gingerbread houses on three key elements - the visual appeal of the gingerbread house, the taste, and the connection to the theme. They are not shy about providing their candid feedback, and their critiques offer invaluable insights into the baking process.

The bakers on the show come from different backgrounds, and each has their own unique approach to creating their masterpieces. From a self-taught baker who learned to bake through Youtube videos to a pastry chef who has worked at some of the world's most prestigious hotels, the contestants bring their diverse experiences to the table, making for an engaging viewing experience. At the end of each episode, one baker who does not meet the judges' criteria is eliminated, while the others move on to the next round.

Apart from the impressive gingerbread houses, the show offers a glimpse into the contestants' lives and their reasons for participating in the competition. The contestants' stories are heartwarming and inspiring, and viewers cannot help but root for them through their baking journey. The camaraderie and banter among the contestants, as well as between the contestants and the host, add to the show's charm.

The host, Clinton Kelly, is a seasoned television personality known for his wit and style. He guides the contestants effortlessly through the competition and adds his own touch of humor to the show. He also gets to share the judges' feedback with the contestants, and his delivery of their critiques often leads to some charming moments on the show.

The three judges, Jamika Pessoa, Jason Smith, and Zac Young, bring their impressive credentials and expertise to the table. Jamika Pessoa is a renowned pastry chef who has worked with some of the best chefs in the world. Jason Smith is the winner of Food Network's Holiday Baking Championship and has his own cookbook. Zac Young is an executive pastry chef who has worked in some of the best hotels and restaurants in the United States. They are tough but fair judges and provide invaluable feedback to the contestants.

Overall, Haunted Gingerbread Showdown is a spooky and entertaining show that celebrates the art of baking and creativity. The show is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat as the bakers battle it out to create the ultimate haunted gingerbread house. With its impressive bakers, stunning gingerbread houses, and witty host and judges, the show is a must-watch for anyone who loves baking or just looking for a fun and engaging show to watch.

Haunted Gingerbread Showdown is a series that ran for 2 seasons (8 episodes) between October 7, 2018 and on Food Network