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'Great British Bake Off' judge Paul Hollywood on new 'Celebrate' cookbook and American bakers

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The cover of "Celebrate" and author Paul Hollywood. (Courtesy of Bloomsbury and Haarala Hamilton)
The cover of "Celebrate" and author Paul Hollywood. (Courtesy of Bloomsbury and Haarala Hamilton)

"The Great British Bake Off" judge, baker and author Paul Hollywood's latest cookbook is one he calls "self-indulgent." It's a collection of his favorite recipes, aptly titled "Celebrate."

Hollywood is known for his admonitions against the "soggy bottom" (the death knell for a pie crust), the 'Hollywood handshake' (reserved for the most accomplished baking feats), his piercing blue eyes, and equally piercing critiques. He packs his new cookbook full of sweet and savory bakes, aimed at bakers of all abilities. The goal, he said, is to get families together to bake and celebrate without judgment.

Book excerpt: 'Celebrate'

By Paul Hollywood

Chocolate fudge cake

Chocolate fudge cake from "Celebrate." (Courtesy of Bloomsbury)
Chocolate fudge cake from "Celebrate." (Courtesy of Bloomsbury)

Spiced loaf cake

Spices loaf cake from "Celebrate." (Courtesy of Bloomsbury)
Spices loaf cake from "Celebrate." (Courtesy of Bloomsbury)

Miso and sesame cheese twists

Miso and sesame cheese twists from "Celebrate." (Courtesy of Bloomsbury)
Miso and sesame cheese twists from "Celebrate." (Courtesy of Bloomsbury)

Reprinted with permission of the publisher. All rights reserved.

This segment aired on October 7, 2025.

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