Now that we’ve hit the second week of the year the reality that everything is not suddenly going to be better because the date shifted had set in. 2017 is not some kind of magical fix all for what happened in 2016, and we’re still the same people we were last year. Diets have failed, the gym is too hard, we’re all out of money and the mood is generally low. Let’s face it, we could all use a little comfort and nothing says comfort like baking.
The Great British Bake Off (2010-2016)
TV Series
The ultimate comfort show, and the best thing to happen to reality TV since reality TV. In case you’ve never been on the Internet the GBBO is 12 very British folks hang out in a tent and baking things that will make you wanna get fat. It’s kind of bittersweet now that this wonder of the world has been stolen from us but it’s definitely worth a rewatch if you’re looking to reinvigorate your belief in humanity. Watch in the kitchen while attempting to bake.
Bridesmaids (2011)
Movie
Although it might not be the most memorable part of this comedy masterpiece, baking is a fairly significant plot point in Bridesmaids. Kristen Wiig's character had a bakery that failed, her new beau tries to reinvigorate her love of baking, and she breaks a giant cookie at the bridal shower. Basically there’s lots of baking and it’s called Bridesmaids so it gets points for alliteration. Watch if you need a good giggle. Best viewed with cupcakes or giant cookies.
Waitress (2007)
Movie
This movie has it’s problems (it’s got that post-feminist sheen that doesn’t quite make it also a bit dub con) but in general I fide Waitress delightful. Plus it’s got so much ‘pie’ porn that Dean Winchester would be done with it. This film is about baking, and using baking as a creative outlet and that’s just wonderful because it’s so unashamedly feminine. Warnings for domestic abuse and abuse of power. Watch with a sweet pie of your choice.
Pushing Daisies (2007-2009)
TV Series
More pie, because everyone can always use more pie. This series is the best show you never watch. From the mastermind behind Hannibal - that other brilliant show you never watched - Bryan Fuller, Pushing Daisies is about a pie maker with the ability to bring people back with a single touch. There is crime solving and romance. Sounds weird, and it is but it’s so so so good. Enjoy with whatever you love because life is short.
Online Comic
An online comic because I’m totally with the times - it’s fun though so give it a chance. Eric Bittle is a figure skater turned ice-hockier, who heads to university and learns about life, love and hockey. Sure the defining feature of this comic is the hockey but Bitty bakes a lot and he’s also kind of a food vlogger. It’s about baking your way to friendship and love okay just read it. Let it inspire you to bake something for your friends.
Fanfiction
FANFICTION! REAL LIFE PERSON FANFIC AT THAT! What am I doing? I am not easing you into this that is for sure. Look okay, this is a fluffy smut filled domestic romance about two boys falling in love with baking. Those boys just happen to be members of One Direction. Louis is graphic designer, Harry is a baker - they fall into bed then fall in love. Create your own sweet to enjoy with this fic!
Well that’s all I’ve got for you this Friday. It’s not a long list but there’s plenty there to keep you sweet on the inside and out. Please, if you have any baking flavoured recs, comment and share so we can all bask in the warmth! See you next Friday.
