Bake Off showcases students’ best dessert recipes

Students welcome a little competition amongst friends, especially when it results in 15 varieties of the best homemade treats and desserts. Students’ culinary skills were put to the test, Feb. 18, in Southwestern’s first-ever Great Bake Off, hosted by Student Life.

For the evening, students set aside books, papers and studying to gather with their families and fellow students for a night of fellowship and sweet creations from participants. Tasting samples from each table, attendees discussed the important questions of the evening: classic chocolate cupcakes or apple cinnamon cupcakes? Buttercream frosting or spiced cream cheese frosting? Ultimately, only one creation could be deemed the “best sweet treat.”

After students cast votes for their favorite baked good, Master of Arts student Samantha Helms and certificate student Crystal Tucker were awarded first place (and an iPad) for their miniature versions of lemon Bundt cakes. For Tucker, the event was an opportunity to share one of her favorite recipes and get to know attendees who visited their table.

“I really enjoyed getting to meet and talk to students,” says Tucker. “My lemon Bundt cake is one of my husband’s favorite desserts. Since we had to make so many, I decided that mini Bundts would be easier and cute.”

Participants also had the opportunity to show off their creative skills through their table presentations. Student wife Clara Longo won a $50 Hobby Lobby gift card for best table décor.

Student Life Coordinator Audrye Glosson says the Bake Off, which also offered two bounce houses for kids, was an event the whole family could attend. Many couples even entered the competition together.

“This event and others like it can be so much fun and enjoyable for students and their families,” Glosson says. “It provides a study break for the students while giving their families a place to hang out with others from seminary and college. It is a great time of fellowship with peers.”

To stay up-to-date on future Student Life events as well as other happenings on campus, visit swbts.edu/events.