Ireland’s Best Baker & Junior Baker of the Year 2026, supported by O’Brien Ingredients. Think you’ve got the winning whisk? Back for its second year, Gala and Ireland AM are once again on the lookout for Ireland’s most talented bakers – both seasoned home bakers and rising young stars. Think you have what it takes to impress the judges and shine on national TV? Now’s your chance.
What You Could Win
· Ireland’s Best Baker (Adult Category): €1,500
· Junior Baker (Ages 12–16): €1,000
How to Enter
From cupcakes and muffins to breads, scones, and traybakes, we want to see your very best bakes! Entrants must submit a bake from one of the following six categories:
1. Cupcakes (min. 6)
2. Muffins (min. 6)
3. Scones (min. 6)
4. Breads
5. Tart
6. Traybakes
To enter, simply email: irelandamcomp@virginmedia.ie by Sunday, 10th May. Include:
· Your name
· Age
· Town
· Contact details
· Your recipe
· A photo or video of your baked creation
Key Dates
· Entries close: April 26th
· Finalists announced: End May (exact date TBC)
· Live Judging Event: May 28th at Airfield Estate, Dundrum
Preheat those ovens and get baking!
New for 2026: Gala Retail Staff Baker Award
To celebrate the incredible talent within our own stores, we’ve introduced a brand-new category exclusively for Gala colleagues – Gala Retail Star Baker 2026
Gala team members are invited to enter their signature bake for the chance to be crowned our first-ever Gala Retail Star Baker. Finalists will be invited to the Bake-Off judging event on May 28th, where entries will be tasted and scored by the judging panel. The winning staff baker will receive €1,000.