How to Win a Recipe Contest

Cooking, baking and other types of recipe contests abound. There are contests for recipes made using a certain brand or product, such as the famous “Pillsbury Bake-Off.” There are contests for slow-cooker or barbecue recipes. You will even find recipe contests for specific food items like salsa, apple pie or chili. However, before you rush off and enter your famous bratwurst strudel, learn some tips to boost your chances of winning.

Things You'll Need

• Contest
• Rules
• Recipe
• Common ingredients
• Knowledge of trends
• Taste testers

Instructions

1. Study the official rules thoroughly. Read them again. Know them like the back of your hand. If your recipe doesn't fit every guideline specified, it will not be considered by the judges.

2. Make sure you use any specific ingredients called for in the contest.

3. Use items that are fashionable to foodies. Get familiar with cable cooking shows, pick up the latest food magazines and add some up-to-the-minute recipe websites to your "Favorites." Watch for produce, spices or cooking methods that are popular and try to find a way to incorporate one into your recipe.

4. Be specific but simple. Include every step, from oven temperature to size of pan to how long to mix. Don't make the steps so labor-intensive, though, that people will be put off. Note serving size and how many servings the recipe makes, as well.

5. Make sure your recipe tastes great, looks appetizing and has a catchy, creative title. Ask friends, relatives and coworkers to sample your wares and give you their honest opinion. You want to stand out above the crowd.

Tips & Warnings

• Lots of people enter recipe contests, so don't give up if you don't win right away. Keep on trying.

• Start small. Many county and state fairs have recipe contests, as do local groups and organizations. Once you have won a few of those, move on to bigger competitions.

• Don't try your recipe using a competitor's or off-name brand. It might cook and taste exactly the same when the judges recreate it with their brand--or it might not. Don't chance it.

Resources

• Cooking Contest Central