COMPETITOR

Jan and Kyle Downes

COMPETITION: World Dessert Championship

QUALIFYING EVENT: NCACS Cupcake Challenge

Jan and Kyle are a mother and son team from Stafford, VA. Kyle earned an Associate’s Degree in Baking and Pastry from the Pennsylvania Culinary Institute, a Le Cordon Bleu School in Pittsburgh, PA. He worked as a Pastry Chef at The Trellis Restaurant in Williamsburg, VA, and is now expanding his culinary skills as a grill chef at a steakhouse. Kyle is the father of two sons, a 2 year old and an 8 month old. He enjoys cooking and baking for his family and friends. Jan has always enjoyed baking, and worked as a cake decorator at a grocery store for 7 years. Now her favorite things are travelling, photography, baking and spending time with her family. Kyle and Jan began baking together when they started their annual Christmas Cookie baking, and have collaborated on cakes for weddings and other celebrations. They have entered local and State Fair baking competitions, winning several ribbons and a Best of Show. Last year, Jan won the VA State Fair’s King Arthur Cupcake Challenge. For the last three years, they have entered the National Capital Area Cake Society’s (NCACS) Cupcake Challenge. Kyle tied for 6th place People’s Choice, last year. This year they won 1st place and overall Grand Champion. We are honored and excited to have a chance to participate in the World Food Championships and are looking forward to coming to Las Vegas!