Hear ye, hear ye: Dame Prue Leith will be leaving The Great British Bake Off, to be replaced by none other than Nigella Lawson.

That was just an amuse-bouche; now let’s dive into the full recipe behind this exciting news.

Dame Prue has been a judge on the reality baking competition since 2017, when the show moved from the BBC to Channel 4.

Last week, she announced her departure, saying: “Now feels like the right time to step back.” Fans were left stunned, as Prue has long felt like a cornerstone of the series, her sharp eye and warm humour central to the show’s charm.

Everyone waited like delicate soufflés to see who would be named as her replacement — and now, the timer has rung. Enter: Nigella Lawson, beloved TV chef, author and culinary icon, whose voice, presence and unmistakable style are sure to bring new energy to the tent.

Bake Off fans, get ready: this is one switch that promises to be deliciously dramatic.

Nigella Lawson spoke out about the news

Nigella shared her excitement in a statement, saying, “I’m uncharacteristically rather lost for words right now. Of course it’s daunting to be following in the footsteps of Prue Leith and Mary Berry before her, great dames both, but I’m also bubbling with excitement.”

She continued, “The Great British Bake Off is more than a television programme, it’s a National Treasure — and it’s a huge honour to be entrusted with it. I’m just thrilled to be joining the team and all the new bakers to come. I wish the marvellous Prue all the best, and I’m giddily grateful for the opportunity!”

Dame Prue herself said she was “thrilled” that Nigella would be stepping into her role in the tent. “She’s sassy, fun, and she knows her onions — and her croissants, cakes, and crumbles,” she added.

Channel 4 controller Ian Katz described the move as “incredibly exciting — a marriage of two great British icons: Bake Off and Nigella.”

Season 17 of The Great British Bake Off awaits

Fans can look forward to the programme’s 17th series later this year, with Lawson joining the tent alongside hosts Alison Hammond and Noel Fielding, ready to judge the next batch of budding baking stars with her signature flair, warmth, and a sprinkling of her trademark culinary magic.