Howard on his biggest baking disaster and ticking clocks…
What first inspired you to bake?
Baking with my mum – she’s a fantastic baker of bread and cakes but her less-than-satisfactory pastry really brought out my competitive streak.
What has been your biggest baking disaster ever?
Chocolate ganache, before I learned how to save it from weeping tears of fat from a sad sandy sludge.
And your baking triumph ever?
My sister’s wedding cake – four tiers of fruit cake with a sugar dome on top.
How does the presence of Paul Hollywood and Mary Berry affect your nerves in the kitchen?
Knowing that they might appear at any moment – you think, please let me get anything complicated done before they arrive!
Which past Bake Off contestants have impressed you the most and why?
John for his all round ability, James for organic inventiveness and Sarah Jane for being someone you’d happily spend time baking with.
What is your biggest fear in the kitchen?
Sharp knives and ticking clocks.
Quick questions…
Tea or coffee? Tea
White or brown bread? Brown (wholemeal really)
Chocolate or vanilla? Vanilla
Paul or Mary? Paul