The twelfth season of La meilleure boulangerie de France, aired on M6, began on March 10, 2025, promising another exciting chapter for bakery enthusiasts. With hosts Bruno Cormerais and Chiara Serpaggi at the helm, the show aims to unearth the best bakery across France, spotlighting the Île-de-France region through its latest episodes.
On the opening day of the season, viewers were introduced to Matthieu and his wife Christelle, who have set up their bakery in Saint-Maurice, Val-de-Marne. Matthieu, 40 years old, brings to the table two decades of experience as a pastry chef and chocolatier, having worked at renowned starred restaurants. Together, this dynamic couple creatively blends their diverse roots—Alsace and Peru—into their baked goods.
What sets their bakery apart is the incorporation of artificial intelligence, which Matthieu has embraced to innovate his craft. "J’ai fait une formation sur l’intelligence artificielle que j’ai trouvé vraiment surprenante parce qu’on découvre notre métier avec un nouveau regard," he explained, indicating how this training has reshaped his perspective on baking. He utilizes AI to create packaging, brainstorm new projects, and design visuals, streamlining processes and saving time.
During the competition, Matthieu took on the challenge of merging two classic recipes, showcasing his inventive spirit and culinary expertise. The couple's commitment to their craft and their willingness to adapt to new technologies not only enhances their offerings but also reflects the changing dynamics of the baking industry.
This season's format has also seen changes behind the scenes, particularly with Chiara Serpaggi stepping up as the new jury member, filling the shoes of Noëmie Honiat for the third time. At just 26 years old, Chiara carries the weight of expectations but remains excited about her role. "Ce n'est pas une position rassurante car Noëmie plaît énormément au public. J'ai peur d'être jugée sur mon jeune âge, qui pourrait sous-entendre un manque de légitimité. Mais cette émission est l'un des plus beaux défis de ma vie," she shared, expressing her resolve to prove herself and her skills among seasoned chefs.
Chiara's Franco-Italian heritage complements her high standards for patisserie, demonstrating her ability to create original, well-balanced flavor combinations. Her experience, confidence, and passion for baking will likely drive her contributions to the show as she judges aspiring bakers alongside Cormerais.
The enthusiasm around La meilleure boulangerie de France not only highlights the artistry of baking but also embraces modernity, reflecting the growing trend of integrating technology within culinary arts. Audiences are poised for exciting matches and exquisite creations throughout this season.
The show presents the unique intersection of traditional baking with the advancements of artificial intelligence, showcasing how chefs adapt and innovate. The integration of technology, as seen at Matthieu's bakery, invites new generations of bakers to reimagine their crafts.
This season is not just about competition; it's also about celebrating the stories and journeys of those behind the business. Viewers can expect to see contestants pouring their hearts and creativity onto their plates, influenced by their personal histories and the cultural richness they bring to their baking.