Great British Bake Off winner to host 'intimate' baking masterclass at Edinburgh cookery school

A former winner of The Great British Bake Off is hosting a masterclass for local bakers at one of Edinburgh’s top cookery schools.

In 2020, Edinburgh-born Peter Sawkins became the youngest ever winner of The Great British Bake Off, appearing on the TV show while he was a student at The University of Edinburgh.

Since winning the series, Mr Sawkins has finished his degree, attended pastry school and published two books. He regularly posts recipes on his website and YouTube channel Peter Bakes.

The baker has now teamed up with the Edinburgh Food & Drink Academy, formerly the Edinburgh New Town Cookery School, to deliver a live demonstration on how to master the classic French dessert, Croquembouche.

Peter Sawkins, from Edinburgh, won The Great British Bake Off in 2020 | Peter Sawkins

The attendees will then cook along with Peter to produce an almond, ricotta and strawberry cake, before sitting down with the Bake Off winner for a Q&A and a cup of tea.

Announcing the event, the baker said: “I’m looking forward to being back in the kitchen at Edinburgh Food & Drink Academy and helping local bakers create their own delicious and beautiful bakes.

“Hosting an intimate event like this allows me to really engage with attendees and help them develop their skills and confidence in the kitchen, before we sit down together over a cuppa and cake for a chat.”

The three-hour masterclass is taking place on Saturday, May 30 from 2pm until 5pm. Places cost £140 and can be booked on the cookery school’s website.

Peter with judges Paul and Prue after becoming the youngest ever winner of the competition | Local Library

Lucinda Bruce-Gardyne, executive chair at Edinburgh Food & Drink Academy, said: “A great friend of Edinburgh Food & Drink Academy, we’re delighted to be able to offer keen bakers the opportunity to meet with and learn directly from Peter.

“Tackling the famously tricky croquembouche, a staple challenge on the Great British Bake Off, Peter will be demonstrating the skills that won him the competition and helping delegates to pick up some tips and tricks along the way.”

The former Edinburgh New Town Cookery School was founded in 2009 by Fiona Burrell and relaunched as Edinburgh Food & Drink Academy in March 2026.