In a surprise turn of events, Banana Boogie Bakery has claimed the 2026 Australia’s Best Fruit Mince Pie title.

Banana Boogie Bakery co-owner Jason Spencer said they had decided to enter the competition, which was held on October 21 as part of the 2026 Tasmanian Baking Show, for feedback and a trip to Tasmania.

“A last minute entry into our first ever National Fruit Mince Pie Competition, a little trip to Launceston for the bosses, and somehow we’ve come home with the overall national title,” they wrote on Instagram.

“We knew we’d be up against some serious competition, especially [from] our good friends at The Gumnut Patisserie, who took out the title last year. So we pulled out the recipe books, got that all-butter shortbread recipe happening and went to work.

“Our team had just a few days to get everything right, and they absolutely nailed it. Every little detail matters in these competitions, and everyone played their part in bringing this one home. This win belongs to the whole team.”

As the final competition for 2026, the Tasmanian Baking Show was hotly contested. The Champion Loaf of the Show – David Cripps Trophy was awarded to Steve Lodge from Cottage Bakery for his Wholemeal Upright, while Taylors Bakehouse won Champion Pie of the Show. Apprentice Sophie Weeding won Champion Cake/Pastry of the Show for her mudcake. It was the second title Sophie has won in recent months after she also claimed the 2026 National Bake Skills title.

The next competition will be the Victorian Baking Show, which is set to be held on February 20, 2027.

The full list of winners from the 2026 Tasmanian Baking Show can be found here.