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Arts & Culture
31 January 2025

Artisanal Bakers Compete For Glory On La Meilleure Boulangerie De France Season 12

Judges Bruno Cormerais, Michel Sarran, and Chiara Serpaggi evaluate talented bakers across regions.

Season 12 of “La Meilleure Boulangerie de France” has officially kicked off, bringing together some of the most passionate and talented bakers from across France to compete for the coveted title. Starting on January 30, 2025, the show has already captured the hearts of the audience as judges Bruno Cormerais, Michel Sarran, and newcomer Chiara Serpaggi explore the art of baking through various challenges and taste tests.

Since its inception, “La Meilleure Boulangerie de France” has become synonymous with showcasing artisanal baking talent. This season, the competition focuses on several regions, with the spotlight firmly on Occitanie and its dedicated artisans. Each episode will see bakers present their signature creations, compete through numerous culinary tests, and face examination from the esteemed jury.

Among the contestants are Nina and Armand le Provost, who opened their bakery-patisserie, Gourmandises, in Leucate village during the summer of 2022. Describing their reaction to being selected for the show, Nina recalls, “Tout est allé très vite ! En quelques semaines nous nous retrouvions avec toute l’équipe de l’émission,” expressing both excitement and disbelief at the rapid progress they made after initially responding to an Instagram message.

The young couple, aiming to highlight their bakery’s year-round operation, emphasizes the importance of their participation: “Nous voulons montrer que nous sommes ouverts toute l'année, été comme hiver.” They want to place Leucate, known for its culinary potential and vibrant commerce, firmly on the map through their involvement and quality offerings.

Before venturing out on their own, both Nina and Armand developed their skills through various experiences, including working together at bakeries in Buenos Aires and Paris. This blend of cultural influences has allowed them to create unique products, rooted firmly in tradition but enriched with innovative twists. Nina explains, “On ne s’invente pas un métier. Nos rôles sont définis et la passion fait le reste,” demonstrating their clear division of labor and passion for their craft.

Similarly, Claire Coquelin of La Madeleine, established for nearly ten years, reflects on the challenge as one of recognition for their hard work. “C’est bon, c’est fait maison,” is their slogan, emphasizing the homemade nature of their offerings and their commitment to quality. They plan to present various specialties, including their popular flaky pastries and artisan breads, all made with locally sourced ingredients.

Ciara Serpaggi’s entry as the new judge, replacing Noémie Honiat due to scheduling conflicts, has stirred up enthusiasm among fans. Known for her impressive background, including stints at Hôtel de Matignon and various prestigious bakeries, Chiara expressed, “L’aventure commence vraiment ce lundi 3 février,” signaling her eager participation and anticipation for the adventures lying ahead on the show.

Airing weekdays at 18:35 on M6, this season promises to thrill viewers with its mix of culinary creativity and deep dives Into French baking traditions. The competition atmosphere envelops both contestants and judges, showcasing not only their delightful creations but also the individual stories of resilience and passion behind them.

With the first round of assessments already underway, viewers are poised to witness who will excel and who will falter as the competition progresses. The blend of historical technique and modern creativity speaks to the essence of French cuisine, and each baker’s products tantalize taste buds and the senses throughout the judging rounds.

Throughout this season, we are set to meet exceptional bakers who not only represent their craft with pride but who strive to innovate. With the bar set high, it’s unclear who will emerge as the ultimate victor of this installment of “La Meilleure Boulangerie de France.”

Yet what remains certain is the unyielding spirit of these artisanal bakers and their commitment to their community—a narrative woven deeply through the show, highlighting the importance of local businesses and traditions. This season promises not just competition but also celebration—of bread, pastry, and the enduring traditions they cherish.