Renowned pastry chef Duff Goldman has unveiled the behind-the-scenes challenges faced by co-host Kardea Brown on the latest season of ‘Kids Baking Championship.’ The dynamic duo teamed up for the show’s latest installment, ‘Kids Baking Championship: Amazing Animals,’ where young bakers are tasked with animal-inspired baking challenges over a span of 10 episodes. The twist this season? Real furry, feathered, and finned friends were brought into the kitchen to enhance the competition.
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Goldman, a familiar face on the Food Network, shared insights during the 2025 South Beach Wine & Food Festival, revealing that the animal encounters added an unexpected element to the baking competition. While he found the animal guests amusing, Brown appeared to have a different perspective. Goldman amusingly disclosed, “The challenging part is helping Kardea get over her fear of some animals. I think she was terrified of the chickens.” The duo’s interactions with these unexpected guests offered a mix of laughter and apprehension.

Reflecting on Brown’s hosting debut, Goldman praised her empathetic nature and unique perspective on pastry, contrasting his own. He emphasised her ability to connect with the young contestants, making her a standout host for the show. Brown, in turn, expressed her gratitude towards Goldman, labelling him as a ‘great teacher’ and ‘great friend.’ Their on-screen chemistry and mutual respect shone through their collaboration on ‘Kids Baking Championship.’
The seasoned partnership between Brown and Goldman goes beyond this season, as they have previously shared the stage for various baking shows and specials. While this isn’t their first collaboration, co-hosting ‘Kids Baking Championship’ together for the first time brought a fresh dynamic to the Emmy-nominated series. Brown stepped into the role previously held by Valerie Bertinelli, marking a new chapter for the beloved baking competition.
Fans can catch all the action on ‘Kids Baking Championship: Amazing Animals’ every Monday at 8 p.m. ET on Food Network, witnessing the budding young bakers navigate intricate animal-themed challenges under the watchful eyes of Goldman and Brown. The show promises a mix of creativity, culinary skills, and unexpected twists, making each episode a delightful treat for viewers of all ages.
As the baking showdown unfolds, the duo’s camaraderie and shared passion for the culinary arts shine through, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for the young contenders. The combination of Brown’s nurturing presence and Goldman’s expert guidance ensures a supportive environment for the budding bakers to showcase their talents and push their boundaries in the kitchen.
With the ongoing season captivating audiences with its blend of baking prowess and adorable animal guests, the partnership between Brown and Goldman stands as a testament to their shared love for the craft. As the series progresses, viewers can look forward to more delightful creations, heartwarming moments, and perhaps a few surprises along the way, making ‘Kids Baking Championship: Amazing Animals’ a must-watch for baking enthusiasts and animal lovers alike.
