The Hospitality, Culinary & Tourism Institute (HCTI) at Frederick Community College (FCC) is thrilled to announce an exciting new partnership with King Arthur Baking Company, a nationally recognized leader in baking excellence.

As part of this collaboration, King Arthur is sponsoring the “Tastes Like Home” Recipe Contest, inviting  FCC HCTI and Frederick County Public Schools (FCPS) Career & Technology Center students to create a unique baked good that reflects their personal or family heritage, using King Arthur Baking Company flour.

“This contest is a fantastic opportunity to connect with aspiring bakers and inspire the next generation of culinary talent,” said Molly Lawrence, Corporate Social Responsibility Manager at King Arthur Baking Company. “FCC’s Hospitality, Culinary & Tourism Institute is well known for its strong program and talented students, and we’re excited to be a part of their journey.”

Finalists will be selected to prepare their creations live at FCC’s Monroe Center on April 17, 2025, where a panel of King Arthur’s professional bakers and chefs will judge entries and crown the winners.

“We’re thrilled that King Arthur Baking has selected our program for this contest, providing our students with a rewarding experiential learning opportunity that blends creativity, skill, and tradition,” said Elizabeth DeRose, HCTI Manager at FCC.

Following the contest, the community is invited to the HCTI Bakery Pop-Up Sale at 200 Monroe Restaurant, where guests can enjoy fresh baked goods and meet King Arthur Baking Company representatives to learn more about their products and expertise.
Contest Theme: "Tastes Like Home"

Participants are asked to craft a recipe inspired by a meaningful dish or tradition, whether a childhood favorite, holiday treat, or new family tradition in the making. Entries must include King Arthur All-Purpose Flour and be accompanied by a brief story about the dish’s personal significance.

"Food is more than ingredients—it tells a story,” said DeRose. "This contest allows students to share their personal connections to baking while developing professional-level recipes."

Finalists will prepare their recipes live, and the winners will receive:

• Grand Prize: A trip to King Arthur Baking Company’s flagship bakery in Vermont or a $5,000 FCC tuition scholarship
• First Runner-Up: $1,000 FCC tuition scholarship
• Second Runner-Up: $1,000 FCC tuition scholarship

Event Details
Thursday, April 17, 2025
FCC Monroe Center, 200 Monroe Avenue, Frederick, MD

HCTI Bakery Pop-Up Sale (Open to the Public)
12:30 PM – 2:30 PM
200 Monroe Restaurant

The Bakery Pop-Up Sale will showcase freshly made baked goods from HCTI students, including:

• Artisan breads
• Scones and pastries
• Pies and quiches
• Cookies and brownies
• Homemade soups

Guests will also have the opportunity to interact with King Arthur Baking Company representatives, who will be on-site to discuss baking techniques, products, and the company’s Pop-Up store in Fairfax, Virginia.

Cash or credit card accepted.

All proceeds benefit HCTI student scholarships.

“Frederick is home to a vibrant food culture, and our students are eager to share their passion and creativity with the community,” added DeRose. “This event is not just about great food—it’s about celebrating culinary talent and bringing people together through the universal language of baking.”

For more information on the HCTI program and upcoming events, visit: frederick.edu/HCTI.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Elizabeth DeRose
[email protected] | 240.629.7912