Jo Brand Surprised by Praise from Prue Leith on Bake Off Extra Slice

During a recent episode of The Great British Bake Off: An Extra Slice, host Jo Brand found herself surprised by unexpected praise from judge Prue Leith. The episode aired on March 15, 2024, featuring a mix of humor and culinary charm as Brand presented her own baked creation to the panel, which also included presenter Joel Dommett and comedian Finlay Christie.

Brand, 68, introduced her dish with a humorous disclaimer, stating, “I’m going to subject you to my favourite pudding from school because I actually made it the other day and I should point out I hate baking, you don’t have to eat it and I’m not paying you, okay?” Her dish consisted of a pastry exterior filled with evaporated milk and a blend of Muscovado sugar. As the panel sampled the treat, they expressed their delight, with comments highlighting its “delicious” taste.

Unexpected Compliments

Leith, 85, was particularly impressed and asked for the recipe, saying, “I’m not the only person who wants to know exactly how you make it because it’s delicious!” Brand’s reaction to this compliment was one of disbelief. She exclaimed, “Oh my God! Can you just note that because I am so useless at anything in the kitchen and I can’t believe you said that?” This moment drew cheers from the audience, showcasing a light-hearted atmosphere on the show.

Brand has been the host of The Great British Bake Off: An Extra Slice since 2014, with co-host Tom Allen joining her in 2018. The episode also featured contestant Jessika, who was eliminated earlier in the week, making her the fourth baker to leave the 16th series of the competition. The episode focused on “Back to School” week, where the remaining bakers aimed to impress judges Paul Hollywood and Leith, competing for the coveted Star Baker title, which was eventually awarded to Jasmine.

Looking Forward

For the first challenge, the bakers tackled a classic favorite, flapjacks, followed by a technical challenge involving school cakes and a showstopper that drew upon nostalgic treats from their educational years. As the episode concluded, Jessika reflected on her experience, stating, “This was going to be my last year to apply and I feel chuffed that I made it to the tent. I have met some incredibly talented, inspiring bakers, so it’s not all bad.”

The Great British Bake Off: An Extra Slice continues to air on Fridays at 20:00 on Channel 4, offering viewers weekly doses of baking excitement and camaraderie.