Next Level Baker premiered on December 4, 2025, on Food Network. The baking competition features a range of participants along with the three judges. This includes Gordon Ramsay, Carla Hall, and Candace Nelson.Carla and Candace appeared on ChicagoNow's December 3, 2025, segment. The two will be featured along with Gordon Ramsay to judge the bakers.They talked about participants, challenges, mid-challenge surprises, and more. When asked about what kind of bakers would be participating on the show, Candace shared:"12 talented bakers. They're duking it out for the title of Next Level Baker and $25,000. They're a mix of home, professional, social media influencers...very diverse group of bakers. But one thing is for sure, they're all super talented."Next Level Baker: Baking show judges Carla Hall and Candace Nelson talk about the show, participants, mid-challenge surprises, and more View this post on Instagram Instagram PostFood Network is back with another exciting baking show, Next Level Baker. For all the baking enthusiasts waiting to get into holiday spirits, here is their chance.Next Level Baker premiered on December 4, 2025. It features 12 bakers and 3 judges - Carla Hall, Candace Nelson, and Gordon Ramsay.Food Network describes the baking show as:"Holiday baking competition where contestants create festive treats in a winter wonderland setting. Gordon Ramsay's classic show gets a magical makeover with twinkling lights, snow, and seasonal spirit across all three levels."Carla Hall and Candace Nelson shared more about the show's format, bakers, and more during their recent appearance on Fox's ChicagoNow. View this post on Instagram Instagram PostThe baking show features 12 bakers from various backgrounds, such as home bakers, professional bakers, and more. Fans would also witness some of the social media influencers as well. They all would compete to win $25,000 prize pot.Further, Carla talked about how home bakers would be competing against a professional baker. She noted that there were various elements and styles from each baker that would shine them."The field is levelled, let me tell you. You really are gonna be surprised about who pulls out all the stops," Carla added. View this post on Instagram Instagram PostNext Level Baker's Candace stated that while bakers are known for following a plan, the show would reveal a totally different aspect. She talked about bakers experimenting with new ingredients and new plans."And bakers are really known for following a plan, but these bakers could really pivot on a dime. I mean, they were just coming up with new ingredients, new plans, as they went along," stated Candace.Carla talked about the three levels of kitchen, similar to the Next Level Chef. The base level contained limited ingredients. Hence, when the bakers are assigned to pick from that level only, they have a limited list of ingredients and equipment.Candace then talked about throwing surprises for the bakers. This included mid-challenge surprises. Carla joked that viewers should wait for Gordon's ugly sweater and laughed.Food Network now streams the Next Level Baker Episode 1.