The Great British Bake Off is the comfort show of comfort shows, and I’m sad to say that the sixteenth season has already come to an end. Every year I block out Tuesday evenings on my calendar, make a cup of tea and treat myself to watching an eclectic group of home bakers struggle through a range of baking challengers. There is really no better way to spend an evening.
This season was no downgrade to Bake Off‘s usual standard. The show was filled interesting challenges, heart-warming moments and times where I was thinking: yeah, I could totally do that. Despite the fact that the show has been around for so long, they still manage to make each season and episode feel unique. It is impressive to see all the different possibilities baking can produce.
At the same time the show provides a sense of comfort. The script and staging are always the same, and you always know what you’re getting into when you sit down to watch an episode. Especially as the season gets darker and colder, a little bit of weekly comfort is what you need.
This season’s cast were also a joy to watch. The show has a great ability of picking people from all backgrounds, and it is always lovely to see these backgrounds reflected in people’s baking. However, this was one of the first seasons where it didn’t really feel like it was anyone’s game. From the get go, one baker stood out and it was no surprise to anyone when Jasmine took the throne. Even with her slight fumble in the final, it was clear that she was always going to be the one to win it.
Some may critique Bake Off for never trying something new, but why fix what’s not broken. Bake Off is always a comforting and reliable show to watch during the winter months, and you won’t hear me speaking a bad word about it. If you haven’t caught up with this season yet, it’s time to make that hot drink and immerse yourself in the world of baking.
