Elliot Styche has carved a name out for himself in the nation’s baking scene. 

The UK-born voice coach has slowly moved back towards his first passion, baking, after first making the finals on the Great Australian Bake Off, and is now making regular appearances on Channel 7 in addition to appearances at the Good Food & Wine Show Christmas Markets.

Baking Business caught up with Elliot to hear about what he loves most about baking, his experience competing on Bake Off, and what the next few months hold for him.

What’s your earliest food memory?
Some of my earliest food memories are of delicious stewed fruits with a simple slice of vanilla cake. Growing up on a farm meant we were surrounded by fresh produce, and the cold, wet climate of Yorkshire meant the rhubarb absolutely thrived. Stewed fruit was a staple — and it still is for me today. I love its versatility: it’s lower in sugar than jam and perfect for everything from breakfast on toast to becoming the star of a much bigger dessert.

Can you share about your experience on The Great Australian Bake Off?
Bake Off really came out of the blue — it wasn’t even on my radar — but it has brought so much joy back into my life. Growing up, all I wanted to do was be a chef! Life took me in a different direction for a while, but Bake Off was a real full-circle moment, reconnecting me with that first love. It was an incredible experience: challenging, exciting, and filled with lifelong friendships and memories.

Was it a difficult decision to move away from vocal coaching and back to baking?
I think teaching voice will always be part of who I am. What’s been wonderful is finding a balance between the two. In more ways than one, they complement each other — the creativity that drives baking often influences singing and vice versa. It’s about expression, storytelling, and creating something meaningful, whether it’s through food or music.

What is your favourite aspect of baking?
My favourite aspect of baking is how it brings people together. It’s not just about making something delicious — it’s about sharing, celebrating, and creating memories. Whether it’s a simple tray of biscuits or an elaborate cake, there’s a special kind of magic in homemade baking. It draws people to the table and connects us through something we all have in common: eating! It’s one of the most joyful, human things we can do.

You want to encourage others to bake and create – why do you think some people are hesitant? What would your advice be to someone who thinks they lack the skills?
Don’t think — just do! It’s a mantra I live by. There are always going to be fails, even with the simplest of recipes, but that’s part of the fun and part of the learning. Home-baked goods, free from preservatives and additives, are in a class of their own — and they’re absolutely worth the ups and downs.

To the hesitant, baking is a science but most good recipes have a good margin of error!

Start with something simple, like a Victoria sponge or a batch of cookies, and just see where it takes you. Confidence builds with practice. ‘Perfect’ has its place, but for me, it doesn’t belong in home baking. The wonky edges, the slip-ups — they add character, they show care, and most of all, they come from love.

What’s your favourite thing to bake?
I absolutely love celebration cakes. There’s something nostalgic about the excitement of a special occasion, bright birthday cake appearing, and seeing the joy on someone’s face when they receive it is priceless. I really think homemade celebration cakes are making a comeback — they carry so much more love and personality than something store-bought. In my circle of friends, it’s always homemade cakes that create the biggest smiles.

Controversial, but is there an item you think is overhyped?
I think it’s overhyped to fill your kitchen with every gadget under the sun. Like an avocado slicer… I mean, really? A knife and spoon do the job just fine! Don’t get me wrong, I love a tool that works hard — but if it only does one oddly specific thing, it doesn’t need a permanent home in my kitchen drawer.

What’s up next for you?
I’m really excited to keep sharing my love of baking through, recipes, and projects that bring together both of my passions — baking and singing. I’m also working on some content that celebrates traditional bakes, helping others feel confident enough to try home baking themselves. There might even be a few surprise collaborations on the horizon!

Is there anything else you’d like to add?
Just a big thank you to everyone who supports home bakers and creators. Baking isn’t just about food — it’s about community, creativity, and connection. Whether you’re baking your first cake or your hundredth loaf, there’s something really special in sharing what you’ve made.