An unfortunate temperature-related mishap in the kitchen caused Jo much consternation during Biscuit Week.
The baker’s attempts to make 24 brandy snaps were thwarted by the ‘Defrost’ setting on her oven being activated by mistake. “I couldn’t figure out what I was doing wrong,” commented Jo after discovering her error, which culminated in her last place finish for the Technical Challenge.
Judge Paul Hollywood labelled her resulting concoction “a mess”. Jo later added: “I feel really gutted that I mucked up so ridiculously. it’s such a stupid thing to do!”
Nonetheless, the 500 test macaroons Jo made in preparation for Biscuit Week proved to be a worthwhile endeavour, as the judges were pleased with her blueberry, strawberry and coconut macaroons in the final Challenge.
Last week’s Star Baker Yasmin also overcame major difficulties to scrape through to the next round. Her macaroons collapsed in the oven, prompting plenty of tears from the distraught baker.
Ultimately Ben’s “horrendous” macaroons, which were also criticised by Paul for their unusual presentation, ensured that Yasmin survived and will be lining up alongside this week’s two Star Bakers – Holly and Jason – in the upcoming Pie Week.
The pair dazzled judges Paul and Mary with the sweet concoctions, with Jason’s Pina Colada macaroons eliciting particular praise. Paul drooled: “It makes you smile. It tastes so good”. But how much will Paul be smiling when the bakers’ pies are unveiled in the next episode? Tune in to BBC2 on Tuesday at 8pm to find out, as the remaining seven bakers fight for survival.