MasterChef’s new spin-off show Dessert Masters has recruited some of the best pastry chefs, chocolate connoisseurs and baking experts in the country.
The judges are Melissa Leong and Amaury Guichon and the new series will see ten pros battle it out in the kitchen to take home the $100,000 prize and be named the first-ever Dessert Master.
But, the stakes are high, because amongst those cooks and bakers are some seriously big names, including Adriano Zumbo and Kay-Lene Tan.
Meet the acclaimed cooks battling it out on MasterChef’s new show Dessert Masters!
Kirsten Tibballs
Instagram: @kirstentibballs
The masterful Kirsten Tibballs, is unofficially dubbed as “The Chocolate Queen”, and for good reason. Having written successful cookbooks, founded online baking classes called Savour School and appeared as a favorite guest chef on MasterChef Australia, she’s somewhat of a pastry and chocolate goddess in Australia.
Reynold Poernomo
Instagram: @reynoldpoer
Reynold Poernomo made his sensational debut on MasterChef Australia in 2015, quickly earning the nickname “Dessert King” with his kitchen wizardry. With the opening of his dessert bars KOI and Monkey’s Corner, he’s developed a dessert-obsessed cult following by whipping up treats almost too good to eat!
Anna Polyviou
Instagram: @annapolyviou
In recent times, Anna Polyviou has gone from the MKR kitchen to the I’m A Celebrity jungle and she now graces the doors of the Dessert Masters. Having clinched numerous awards in the culinary world, she’s setting her sights on the coveted title of Australia’s inaugural Dessert Master.
Adriano Zumbo
Instagram: @thesweetassassin
One of Australia’s most celebrated pâtissiers Adriano Zumbo needs no introduction. He’s known for introducing the croquembouche and making macarons a household name, and now he’s set to bring his quirky creations to life on Dessert Masters.
Jess Liemantara
Instagram: @jesslemon
As a contestant on MasterChef Australia in 2020, Jess Liemantara proved age is just a number when it comes to culinary skills. Despite being the youngest competitor on the show, she blew the judges away with her colorful cakes and picture-perfect pastries. Now she’s bringing her signature skills to the Dessert Masters kitchen and is ready to wow again.
Morgan Hipworth
Instagram: @morganhipworth
At a mere 15 years old, Morgan Hipworth baked his way into Melbourne’s heart with Bistro Morgan, the now-iconic bakehouse. With a penchant for bold flavors and visually stunning pastries, he’s been crowned “The Donut King” of Australia.
Kay-Lene Tan
Instagram: @kaylenetan_
After honing her skills under the legendary chef Joël Robuchon, Kay-Lene Tan has crafted confectionery masterpieces at top-notch restaurants worldwide. As an Executive Pastry Chef, Kay-Lene whips up treats that stir memories and intends to use her formidable background to trifle the competition.
Andy Bowdy
Instagram: @andybowdy
As a chef, Andy Bowdy’s goal was to ensure desserts were equally delicious and visually appealing, nailing the cream-to-cake ratio. And boy, did he succeed. Throughout his career his desserts have won trophies, accolades, and the hearts of his customers. He’s now ready to shatter all expectations and rise to the top like a cake in the oven.
Rhiann Mead
Instagram: @rhiannmeadpastry
As Head Pastry Chef at The Charles in Sydney, Rhiann Mead has whipped up countless delectable goodies over the years. Her impressive pastry skills include precise piping, intricate chocolate and sugar work, and more. With her past experience at esteemed restaurants like Bennelong and Quay, Rhiann looks set to give the competition a run for their money.
Gareth Whitton
Instagram: @gareddio
Former Head Pastry Chef at Dinner By Heston Blumenthal (Melbourne), Gareth Whitton is now the not-so-anonymous founder and Pastry Chef of Tarts Anon. Having worked with some of the world’s best chefs for over 15 years, will Gareth rise to the challenge or crumble under pressure during the competition?
Dessert Masters continues Sunday – Tuesday at 7:30pm 10 and 10 Play.
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