There was a theme almost Dickensian in the air as the Sherburn Craft and Food Festival welcomed Great British Bake Off (GBBO) stars from the past, present and future to a highly successful second annual event, sponsored by local food tailor Pecan Deluxe Candy.
The highlight of the weekend was engaging and insightful cookery demonstrations from a team of well-known chefs, led by GBBO star Howard Middleton who specialises in gluten-free bakery. After opening the show Howard took to the stage under the gaze of the summer sun and a full-capacity audience – including a chef from the current series and a Junior Bake Off contestant – to show off his skills using a range of delicious inclusions from Pecan Deluxe. Visitors were enthralled by demos of Bakewell Tarts topped with praline almond pieces, showing the audience how to combine flavours and add crunchy texture, followed by Madeleines with peanut butter fudge pieces – again showing that gluten-free treats need never be fun-free.
Ticket-holders were also delighted by over 100 exhibits and attractions including live entertainment, children’s activities, a funfair, a new vintage car and bike display and special extended opening hours – the Afterfest – on Sunday evening. Howard was the natural choice to return to the Festival since his massively popular appearance in the inaugural event last year. Howard originally won the hearts of GBBO viewers with his engaging personality and sense of humour and has since gone on to demonstrate his creative approach at numerous food festivals, shows and teaching at artisan food schools.
Pecan Deluxe Business Development Manager Jenny Baillie commented: “We were delighted to see Howard once again wowing the crowds at this year’s Sherburn Festival. He is a magnificent ambassador for gluten-free baking – and of course for Pecan Deluxe’s versatile ingredients, and we’re honoured to be working with him again. The festival as a whole was a hugely successful event, bringing together local and regional people across so many varied attractions. As overall sponsor and local employer Pecan Deluxe is proud to be associated with the festival, which truly showcases the best our region has to offer.”
All Pecan Deluxe products, including cookie doughs, moulded chocolate shapes, fudge and brownie pieces and praline nuts, are made using natural colours and flavourings in strict allergen-controlled facilities. The company is constantly innovating to develop new flavours and textures and can create bespoke products tailor-made to customers’ requirements. For more information, visit www.pecandeluxe.com.