As the year’s new MasterChef Australia season, Secrets and Surprises, was about to premiere on the evening of Monday, May 1 the country was truly surprised with the shock news of judge Jock Zonfrillo’s sudden passing.
The much-beloved show running in Australia since 2009 respectfully postponed the debut airdate as Aussies waited in anticipation for the new season. This year consisting of 18 talented Chefs and home cooks taking the main stage, individuals were whittled down based on food knowledge, presentation and creativity of dish, leaving just one winner Brent Draper! The great achievement has cemented his future in the Australian food scene and we add our heartfelt congratulations for the coveted trophy and accomplishment!
He is in good company sharing the winning title with 2020 winner Emilia Jackson, who has gone on to write an essential baking companion titled 'First, Cream The Butter and Sugar', with the absolute cutest illustrations and title page! Her first cookbook is the ultimate guide for everyone who loves cake. Whether you're reading it for 'the only' choc chip cookie recipe, you'll ever need, or you're setting your sights on conquering an opera cake, a raspberry passionfruit tart or becoming a choux-master, Emelia has done the homework on behalf of us all.
Emilia is ambassador for Belling and their incredibly gorgeous range of classic ovens.
Emilia explains: "As a little girl, I was always in the kitchen, beaters in one hand, cake tin in the other, mixing, measuring, making an enormous mess – and loving every minute of it. I’m always the one volunteering to bake the birthday cake or bring the dessert (I’ve found it’s a guaranteed invite to the party)”.
Emilia first appeared as one of 24 contestants on the show’s 6th season, where she actually finished in third place, however, she was invited to return three years later on the season named 'Back to Win', where she did just that and crowned winner for 2020.
These days Emilia hosts hands-on cake-making classes which are so popular to nab a spot you’ll need to wait for new openings in 2024.
In the meantime, for those of us that can’t wait until 2024, Emilia has shared her crowd-favourite sticky date pudding recipe. The staple Winter dessert has had an upgrade with simple tricks elevating the rich classic flavours.
You don't need to be a MasterChef to create this dreamy dessert!
