The new MasterChef spin-off series, Dessert Masters, has been making headlines since it was announced late last year. Now, with filming officially underway for the baking competition show, the line-up of decorated pastry chefs, chocolatiers, and baking experts taking part has been announced.

Taking on the pressure of the judge’s hat is Melissa Leong, respected food writer, editor, critic, and radio presenter.

Melissa said, “Our cast for Dessert Masters is loaded-to-the-gills, top-of-the-pops, crème de la crème of Australia’s pastry industry. It doesn’t get any better, more high calibre, more magical than these chefs, who all bring their own unique take on sweet creations to their own worlds, and now, to ours.

“I am beyond thrilled—and honoured—to be working with such brilliant, talented, and generous people… but boy do I have my work cut out for me!”

French pastry and chocolate extraordinaire, Amaury Guichon will be joining Melissa as one of the judges on the show.

“I am so happy to be in Australia to experience its unique pastry scene and be a part of Dessert Masters,” said Amaury.

“What I’ve experienced so far, I haven’t seen in a long time—a tight-knit community of chefs who share great camaraderie, skill, and passion for their craft.

“This is a once-in-a-lifetime cast of incredibly talented Australian pastry chefs, and it is an honour to be judging them. Their creations are so good, I think the audience will want to lick the television screen!”

The Dessert Masters line-up of contestants is just as star-studded as advertised, with top names across the industry taking part.

The full line-up consists of: Kirsten Tibballs, Reynold Poernomo, Anna Polyviou, Adriano Zumbo, Jess Liemantara, Morgan Hipworth, Kay-Lene Tan, Andy Bowdy, Rhiann Mead, and Gareth Whitton.