Amy Nelson was named as the grand prize winner of the 48th Pillsbury Bake-Off Contest.
 
In the 48th edition of its beloved Bake-Off Contest, Pillsbury has awarded the grand prize to Amy Nelson of Zionville, North Carolina for her Bejeweled Cranberry-Orange Rolls and her inspiration behind the recipe.

Pillsbury, which brought back its contest after a three-year hiatus, partnered with Food Network and Ree Drummond, the star of its hit cooking how The Pioneer Woman, to promote the contest which celebrates America’s home cooks and the stories behind their creations. Cooks were asked to share how they use Pillsbury in a family favorite recipe and to also share the story behind their recipe.

Amy Nelson was chosen over thousands of talented home cooks after months of testing. Her recipe was inspired by her mother, with whom she would cook with when she was young.

“I feel blessed beyond belief to be a Pillsbury Bake-Off Contest grand prize winner,” says Nelson. “I have so many memories about family and food, especially when it comes to my mama. She loved Pillsbury Orange Rolls, so when I saw those on the list of eligible products, I knew it was a recipe that was meant to be. I just added a filling inspired by a family favorite cranberry salad that Mama always made, and it was a perfect match!”

Nelson won the contest with her Bejeweled Cranberry-Orange Rolls recipe.
 
The Grand Prize was revealed on Food Network’s The Kitchen on February 24. In addition to the appearance on The Kitchen, Nelson will also receive a feature in Food Network Magazine, a kitchen makeover from GE Appliances, and $50,000 in cash. Three other category winners who were also present on that episode of The Kitchen will receive a feature in Food Network Magazine, a suite of GE Appliances, and $5,000 in cash.

  • Appetizers for Any Party Category Winner: JoAnne Tucker from Tampa, Florida for her Toasted Spinach Pesto Ravioli
  • Dinners with Heart Category Winner: Sarah Campbell from Palm Bay, Florida for her Oktoberfest Pizza
  • No-Fuss Desserts Category Winner: Sandy Reiter from San Mateo, California for her Cookies and Cream Caramel Layer Bars

“We were thrilled to see the variety of recipes that were submitted into this year’s Pillsbury Bake-Off Contest and the important role these recipes play in peoples’ lives,” says Joanna Hargus, Senior Marketing Manager for Pillsbury. “It was wonderful to see our Pillsbury home cooks receive a once-in-a-lifetime experience and the opportunity to share their heartwarming stories and memories alongside some of Food Network’s most inspirational stars.”