Imagine stepping into the Great Hall at Hogwarts, the air filled with the scent of freshly baked butterbeer cake and enchanted chocolate frogs, while the mischievous Weasley twins guide teams of world-class bakers through challenges that bring the Wizarding World to life on edible platters. That’s the magic of Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking, the Food Network and Warner Bros. Discovery series that has enchanted both Potterheads and baking enthusiasts alike.
If you’ve ever wondered who’s behind the spellbinding creations—whether it’s the iconic hosts, the discerning judges, the surprise guest stars from the original films, or the talented competitors—this comprehensive guide reveals the full cast of Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking. From Season 1’s inaugural champions to the latest stars of Season 2 (which premiered in late 2025), you’ll discover the people making this crossover hit a reality. Whether you’re a lifelong fan seeking nostalgic behind-the-scenes insights or a culinary creator looking for inspiration, this article delivers everything you need to know about the stars of the show.
The Hosts: James and Oliver Phelps (Fred and George Weasley)
At the heart of Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking are James and Oliver Phelps, the identical twins who brought Fred and George Weasley to life in the original film series. Now, more than 15 years after their final appearance in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2, the brothers have returned to the Wizarding World in a whole new way—as charismatic hosts who infuse every episode with the same playful energy that made their characters so beloved.
James and Oliver don’t just read lines; they share genuine memories from their decade-long journey on the Harry Potter films. Viewers frequently hear anecdotes about pranks on set, working with Daniel Radcliffe, or the emotional final days of filming. Their hosting style is warm, witty, and perfectly attuned to the show’s tone—never overshadowing the bakers but always elevating the fun.
What sets them apart is their authenticity. Unlike many celebrity-hosted competition shows, the Phelps twins are true insiders. They’ve walked the same corridors of Hogwarts that the bakers are now recreating in icing and fondant. When a contestant builds a replica of the Hogwarts Express or a moving Whomping Willow, the brothers’ reactions feel genuine because they’ve lived those moments on screen.
Their presence alone has been a major draw for Potter fans. Social media is filled with comments like “The twins are back!” and “This is the Fred and George content we’ve been waiting for.” For many viewers, watching James and Oliver host is like catching up with old friends.
The Expert Judges: Carla Hall and Jozef Youssef
No baking competition is complete without judges who know exactly what separates good from extraordinary. In Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking, that role belongs to Carla Hall and Jozef Youssef—two culinary powerhouses with vastly different backgrounds but complementary expertise.
Carla Hall is a familiar face to Food Network viewers. A former contestant on Top Chef, she went on to host The Chew and has since become one of the most beloved personalities in American food television. Known for her infectious smile, warm demeanor, and razor-sharp palate, Carla brings a perfect balance of encouragement and constructive criticism. She’s particularly adept at tasting through layers of flavor and texture, which is crucial when bakers are working with complex Harry Potter-inspired elements like butterbeer, treacle tart, or Bertie Bott’s Every Flavour Beans.
Jozef Youssef, on the other hand, brings a more avant-garde perspective. A chef, author, and molecular gastronomy expert, Jozef is known for pushing boundaries with technique and presentation. His cookbook Spice Odyssey showcases his innovative approach to flavor pairing, and he applies that same creativity to evaluating the show’s elaborate showpieces. Jozef often challenges bakers to think beyond traditional baking and incorporate elements of surprise—whether that’s edible illusions, hidden mechanisms, or unexpected flavor combinations.
Together, Carla and Jozef provide the perfect judging duo: one grounded in classic technique and heartfelt feedback, the other focused on innovation and spectacle. Their critiques are always fair, detailed, and rooted in real culinary knowledge, making the competition feel credible and high-stakes.
Special Guest Stars from the Harry Potter Films
One of the biggest treats for fans is the parade of original Harry Potter cast members who appear as guest judges and surprise visitors. These cameos add emotional depth and nostalgia to every season.
Some of the most memorable guest appearances include:
- Warwick Davis (Professor Flitwick / Griphook) – The veteran actor brings his signature humor and wisdom, often sharing stories from the early days of filming.
- Evanna Lynch (Luna Lovegood) – Known for her dreamy demeanor and deep connection to the character, Evanna’s episodes are filled with whimsical insights and genuine excitement for the bakers’ creations.
- Bonnie Wright (Ginny Weasley) – Ginny’s actress brings a quiet confidence and thoughtful feedback, often praising bakers who capture the heart of the Wizarding World.
- Afshan Azad (Padma Patil) – A fan favorite, Afshan’s appearances highlight the diversity of the original cast and add a fresh perspective.
- Devon Murray (Seamus Finnigan) – His explosive energy and love for the franchise make him a highlight in every episode he appears in.
These guest stars don’t just judge; they often participate in mini-challenges or share behind-the-scenes stories that only they can tell. For Potter fans, these moments are pure gold.
The Competing Bakers: Season 1 and Season 2 Highlights
While the hosts and judges bring star power, the real magic happens in the hands of the competing bakers. Each team consists of two professionals—pastry chefs, cake artists, chocolatiers, and sugar sculptors—who must work together under intense time pressure to create showstopping pieces inspired by the Harry Potter universe.
Season 1 (2024) Winners
- Zoë Burmester and Jordan Pilarski – This dynamic duo took home the inaugural Wizards of Baking Cup with their breathtaking creations, including a gravity-defying Patronus illusion and a chocolate frog that truly hopped. Their technical skill and storytelling ability set a high bar for future seasons.
Notable Season 1 Teams
- Elizabeth and Juan – Known for their intricate sugar work and attention to detail.
- Chris and Miko – Masters of flavor innovation and bold presentations.
- Yohann and Kayla – Their whimsical designs captured the playful spirit of the Wizarding World.
Season 2 (2025) Standouts Season 2 raised the stakes even higher, with more ambitious challenges and even tighter competition.
- Jenny Chambers and Alex Madrigal – Season 2 champions whose moving Whomping Willow and enchanted forest display left judges speechless.
- Andy Ortega and Stefan Rose – Their technical mastery and emotional storytelling made them fan favorites.
- Angel Figueroa and Rui Mota – Known for pushing creative boundaries with innovative techniques.
- Heather Tocco and Kate Sigel – Their elegant designs and flawless execution earned consistent praise.
Each team brings a unique background, from Michelin-starred pastry chefs to Instagram-famous cake artists. Their Hogwarts house pride often shines through in their designs, adding an extra layer of fun for viewers.
Behind-the-Scenes Magic: Filming Locations and Show Format
Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking is filmed at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London — The Making of Harry Potter, the same location where the original films were created. Contestants work directly on the iconic sets, including the Great Hall, Diagon Alley, and Gringotts Wizarding Bank. This authentic backdrop elevates every challenge, making the edible creations feel like they truly belong in the Wizarding World.
The show follows a classic competition format: each episode features a massive showpiece challenge, a tasting element (often incorporating Harry Potter flavors), and a timed bake-off. Winners advance, losers go home, and the pressure builds toward the grand finale.
What sets this series apart is its reverence for the source material. Challenges are deeply rooted in canon—think recreating the Sorting Hat, building a moving Knight Bus, or crafting a Patronus in edible form. The result is a show that feels like a love letter to both baking and Harry Potter.
Why This Show Is a Must-Watch for Harry Potter Fans
Beyond the competition, Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking offers something rare: a celebration of the franchise’s legacy through food. The original cast members share memories, the bakers pay homage to the books and films, and the entire production is steeped in nostalgia.
For fans who’ve grown up with the series, watching the Phelps twins host, seeing Warwick Davis judge, or hearing Evanna Lynch talk about Luna’s quirks feels like coming home. For new fans or baking enthusiasts, it’s an accessible entry point into the Wizarding World, complete with stunning visuals and inspiring creativity.
The show also highlights the artistry of professional baking. The level of skill on display—sculpting sugar flowers, tempering chocolate for moving parts, creating illusions with gelatin—is jaw-dropping. Even casual viewers leave each episode with new ideas and techniques to try at home.
FAQs
Is Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking returning for Season 3? As of December 2025, there’s no official announcement, but the show’s strong ratings and fan enthusiasm make a third season likely.
Where can I watch Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking? Stream on Max (formerly HBO Max), the Food Network app, discovery+, or purchase episodes on platforms like Amazon Prime Video.
How many seasons are there so far? Two seasons have aired: Season 1 in late 2024 and Season 2 in 2025.
Are the original Harry Potter actors really judging? Yes! Warwick Davis, Evanna Lynch, Bonnie Wright, Afshan Azad, and Devon Murray have all appeared as guest judges, sharing authentic stories from the films.
Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking is more than a baking competition—it’s a magical reunion that brings together beloved characters, world-class talent, and the enduring charm of J.K. Rowling’s universe. Whether you’re watching for the nostalgia, the creativity, or the sheer joy of seeing Fred and George back in action, this series delivers pure wizardry on a plate.
If you haven’t yet tuned in, now is the perfect time. Grab a butterbeer (or your favorite mug), settle in, and let the cast of Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking transport you back to Hogwarts—one edible masterpiece at a time.
