We get to know Neil Higgins, one of two WA contestants taking part in this year’s series of The Great Australian Bake Off, and find out where he gets his cake fix in Perth.
Where in Perth do you hail from, and do you have any fave cake spots locally?
I’m a Marangaroo boy, but I’m always prepared to travel for good baked treats! Chu bakery in Highgate I’d say is number one for me. I recommend their citrus tart, but everything they make there is on point.
Any others?
Crumbs Patisserie in Applecross is my go-to when I’m south of the river. Their selection of desserts are inspired, but the stand-out for me is their Shnickers Mini Dessert — it’s pure decadence! There are plenty of other brilliant sweet destinations that I haven’t explored yet, but I’m always looking for new sugary adventures.
What made you apply for the show?
Just curiosity, really. I absolutely love everything food related, and my friends tell me I have a knack for baking and pastry. Applying for a baking show hadn’t crossed my mind, in fact I didn’t know too much about Bake Off at all. But in the weeks that followed, seeing the application, my obsessiveness with baking took hold and I just kind of fell into it.
What experience, if any, do you have in the kitchen?
I am pretty much self-taught. In 2014 I suffered an injury that left me with limited use of my hands. While I was waiting for operations to improve my situation, I began reading cookbooks. This gave me the know-how and passion to dive deep into every corner of cooking, and begin experimenting.
Do you have a signature dish?
I love making my chocolate orange, mirror-glazed entremet. It really is the perfect bite of textures and flavours.
What were your first thoughts upon stepping into the Bake Off shed?
Awe and excitement! The shed is absolutely gorgeous, filled with soft pastel colours and every piece of baking equipment your heart could desire. Everything’s in place for you to make your best creations. It’s truly the happiest place you could be!
What do you hope to achieve through the show?
Baking is such a joyful thing that anybody can do. You share it with your family, with your friends or neighbours, and I want to show everybody some of the fun things I have created on my baking journey.
What did you love most about taking part?
It’s all about the Bake Off family! Every one of these bakers is extremely talented and we always supported each other. Being in that gorgeous shed with the smell of sweet treats filling the air, there was a constant anticipation while we waited to see what delicious creation each baker was going to come up with.
The Great Australian Bake Off premieres June 13 on Foxtel and Binge.
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