Winner will appear in Taste of Home magazine, cook with Carla Hall, and take home $25,000
my passion, creativity, and attention to detail turn every dish into an experience people crave and come back for every time
Want to learn more about our competition?
Learn MoreWant to be notified if their position changes?
Receive Text Updatesmy signature dish is my salted caramel pretzel cheesecake it has a buttery pretzel crust, rich and creamy cheesecake filling, smooth caramel, and the perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors i created it to be comforting but still memorable, with every layer adding texture and flavor it became one of my most requested desserts because it feels homemade, indulgent, and unique while still reminding people of something nostalgic and comforting
Who is your culinary inspiration?my culinary inspiration for baking is Buddy Valastro because his creativity, passion, and energy in the kitchen remind me so much of myself when i bake. my culinary inspiration for cooking is Gordon Ramsay because i admire his intensity, dedication, and the way he brings bold flavor and confidence into every dish he creates
What would you do with the $25,000?i would use the $25,000 to help support my mother and give back to someone who has always supported me. i would also invest in better kitchen equipment, improve my culinary skills, and continue building my passion for baking and cooking into a future business, with the dream of one day opening my own bakery or restaurant. part of the money would also go toward experimenting with new recipes and techniques so i can continue growing as a chef
Vote for Taylor Denning to be the next Favorite Chef while supporting a great cause! Cast your free daily vote below, or make an even bigger impact when you vote by donation, supporting the James Beard Foundation and their mission to lead chefs and the broader culinary industry toward a new standard of excellence.