Moate student is Ireland's Best Junior Baker after tv bake-off

Ireland’s best bakers were recognised this week, with the winner of Ireland’s Best Junior Baker with Gala Retail named as Lucy Carroll, Moate, while Vincent Kenny from Douglas, Co. Cork, crowned Ireland’s Best Baker 2026.

Lucy had the recipe for success with her award-winning Lemon Drizzle Cake, taking home the prestigious title of Ireland’s Best Junior Baker and a €1,000 cash prize.

Organised by convenience group Gala Retail in partnership with Virgin Media Television and supported by O’Brien Ingredients, the competition called on amateur bakers from across Ireland to showcase their favourite home-baked creations. Following a nationwide search that highlighted the talent and passion for baking found in communities across the country, finalists came together for a live bake-off event at Airfield Estate in Dundrum.

The final, which aired on Ireland AM, was judged by a panel led by renowned baking expert Catherine Leyden and TV presenter Cassie Stokes.

Reflecting on her win, Lucy shared: "I was so shocked but thrilled to be named the winner of Ireland’s Best Baker. I love baking, so to see my lemon drizzle cake impress the judges was an amazing feeling. The standard of competition was so high and there were so many talented bakers taking part, which makes the win even more special. Having my mum and granny there to support me on the day meant so much, and I’m so grateful to have had the opportunity to be part of it."

Joining Lucy in the final were Jack Duggan from Galway, whose chocolate chip muffins were highly praised by the judges, while Felix McCormack from Enfield, Meath impressed with his sweet potato brownie tray bake. In the Senior Baker category, Vincent, who impressed with his traditional brown bread, was joined by finalists Vivienne Dineen from Ballyheigue, Kerry, who baked chocolate fudge brownies with a butterscotch sauce, and Aulbright Nyih from Swords, Dublin with her death by chocolate muffins. Each finalist received €500 in recognition of their baking skills.

Gary Desmond, CEO of Gala Retail, commented: “The response to this year’s competition has been fantastic and once again highlighted the baking talent that exists in communities across Ireland. The standard was exceptionally high, with finalists bringing creativity, personality and unique twists on classic recipes.

“Gala stores are at the heart of communities across Ireland, and Ireland’s Best Baker has become a great way to celebrate local talent. It’s been great to see bakers of all ages share family recipes, original ideas and their love of baking, while our partnership with Virgin Media Television has helped showcase that talent on a national stage.

“Congratulations to both Vincent and Lucy, and all of this year’s finalists on their achievements. They should be very proud of what they’ve accomplished.”

This year’s competition received entries from across the country, with categories ranging from scones and muffins to cupcakes, breads, tarts, and traybakes. For more information about the competition and to view highlights from the event, visit www.gala.ie/bestbaker.