‘Really excited’: Local baker to compete on Halloween Baking Championship airing on Food Network

PERRY — A local baker is once again taking his talent to the national stage on Food Network.

Sweet Evelyn’s Owner Cory Jones will be competing on the Halloween Baking Championship. The show premieres on Monday, Sept. 15, with each episode streaming on HBO Max the following day.  

According to Food Network, the Halloween Baking Championship is set in a haunted mansion, where contestants will participate in many dessert-themed challenges. Actor and comedian John Henson hosts the show and will be judged by well-renowned pastry chefs Stephanie Boswell, Carla Hall and Zac Young.   

“The bakers are tested over seven episodes with a series of sinister challenges inspired by the haunted manor, and the most terrifying aspect of all – their own personal fears,” Food Network said in a press release. 

The winner will receive a $25,000 prize and the title of Halloween Baking Champion. 

Jones, of Unadilla, was inspired to start baking when he took his mother to a cooking class in 2016. 

“I took my mom to a cookie decorating class, but I was the one that got hooked,” he said. 

He is also no stranger to baking competitions, having competed on Food Network’s Christmas Cookie Challenge a few years ago. He said the network scouts its talent through social media, and bakers interested can apply to be on the show. 

Jones did not want to spoil much of his experience on the Halloween Baking Championship and encouraged viewers to watch the show and find out for themselves. 

“Halloween is my favorite holiday,” he said. “I’m known for Christmas as I’ve done the holiday show in the past, but Halloween really is my favorite, so I was really excited for this one.” 

According to Jones, his whimsical baking style, familiarity with producing haunted houses and implementing horror makeup expertise into his baking style are what sets him apart from the competition in the Halloween Baking Championship. 

To learn more about Jones and his bakery, Sweet Evelyns, visit their Facebook page at  www.facebook.com/sweetevelyns