Australian Open winner Serena Williams took time out in January to host a baking challenge with sister Venus and The Great Gatsbydirector Baz Luhrmann.

The event showcased Serena’s passion for colourful cuisine as she demonstrated “The Serena Surprise”, a twist on the traditional ice cream and meringue-based dessert, the Bombe Alaska.

Sofitel Melbourne on Collins executive chef John Savage said the team decided on cherry and white chocolate as a sweet and summery option to complement the city’s soaring temperatures.

“Ice cream is always a summer favourite and we were keen on the dessert having a theatrical element to its assembly,” he said.

“Serena and Venus were extremely enthusiastic about the dessert challenge and were great sports. They were an absolute delight to work with and it was a real thrill to share the spotlight with them.

“Even better they really enjoyed the dessert. Venus actually had two of them after she finished the demonstration!”

The dessert was available throughout the duration of the Australian Open at Sofitel’s restaurant, No35. Baz Luhrmann judged the sisters’ efforts a dead heat, so they both went home winners.