Meet Flora, this year’s youngest baker…
What first inspired you to bake?
I fail to remember a time when myself, my mum or any other woman in my family was not baking. It has always been the done thing at home. I don’t think you could say I was ever inspired, programmed would be a better term!
What has been your biggest baking disaster ever?
I think my worst baking disasters have occurred when I am in a rush. Pressure is not my friend.
And your baking triumph ever?
Little victories are my triumphs. I am pretty pleased when I turn a cake out of a bundt tin without breakages, or when weighing ingredients and I cut the exact amount.
How does the presence of Paul Hollywood and Mary Berry affect your nerves in the kitchen?
You find yourself doing very bizarre things because of nerves.
Which past Bake Off contestants have impressed you the most and why?
I am impressed by the lot of them! They all came across as cool, calm and collected. I loved Frances’s creativity though and thought Richard’s baking all sounded delicious.
What is your biggest fear in the kitchen?
Things not going quite as planned! I am a bit of a control freak and more often than not can count on set recipes. I still feel a little nervous before opening the oven door!
Quick questions…
Tea or coffee? I am partial to both but very few things beat a very good espresso.
White or brown bread? I love white sourdough, but always brown for a simple loaf. My mum would kill me if it was any other way!
Chocolate or Vanilla? That’s impossible! I love a really good white chocolate speckled with hundreds of black vanilla seeds, but I also go mad for any chocolate over 70%. They are both pretty good canvases in terms of adding further flavours.
Paul or Mary? Much like chocolate and vanilla they both have their merits!