The Shortbread Showdown: Behind The Scenes Look
Some big shortie showstoppers are heading for the Highlands this weekend at the Shortbread Showdown…
An iconic Scottish export is celebrated annually at the Highland Shortbread Showdown in Inverness.
After months of heats, finalists will gather on March 8 at a Great British Bake Off-style contest as they compete to be crowned shortbread champion.
Members of the public have sampled their creations and, after voting for their favourite shortbreads in the regional heats, have made their selections for the grand final at Eden Court.
Open to all of Scotland, the Shortbread Showdown was established in 2023 with a simple aim. “It was to bring communities together to find the best shortbread in the Highlands,” says organiser Emma Harrison, destination development manager at Visit Inverness Loch Ness. It was also the organisation’s way of attracting tourists to sample the best shortbread, and raise awareness of local businesses.
“It all started with a cuppa and a biscuit,” Emma adds. “Digital engagement manager Jo Page and I wanted to think of a collaborative plan to get the Highland bakers together, and what better way than by a contest to see who bakes the best shortbread? It’s the nation’s favourite biscuit. It’s extremely important and, although this is for fun, people take it very seriously.”
Jeni Iannetta, of Bad Girl Bakery, has been a judge since 2023 and, as an experienced baker, was only too happy to be part of the Highland Shortbread Showdown. “Given that it was about baking and shortbread, I was absolutely delighted to be involved because the organisers are interested in showcasing local businesses and talent, celebrating people’s achievements and getting together,” she says.
Competition will be tight at Eden Court.
As well as traditional recipes, there are also more original shortbread creations to be judged.
“Shortbread doesn’t have many ingredients and so to create something that tasty, that’s relatively simple, is something to be really proud of,” Jeni adds.
“A good shortbread is a thing of beauty. The other great thing about shortbread is that it is open to interpretation, allowing people to showcase their flair and decorating skills.
“One that springs to mind is the ‘smoked salt’ flavour. We have also had a citrus hit, one that was coloured like a bouquet of flowers, and one flavoured with Earl Grey tea.
The range of talent is spectacular.
“I judge alongside people I have a huge amount of admiration for, including KJ, formerly of The Mountain Café in Aviemore – she is a real foodie hero of mine – plus Sarah Rankin, the MasterChef finalist.
“My advice for the other judges is, make sure you pace yourself as it’s a lot of shortbread and you want to be able to enjoy every single one,” Jeni adds. “And make sure you don’t peak too early!”
Emma has some advice, too: “Make the most of the opportunity to showcase your business and tell the public all about what you offer – and, of course, make sure your shortbread is top of the class!”
