Drew Barrymore to Host the Pillsbury Bake-Off Classic
Just in time for Thanksgiving, Pillsbury Bake-Off Classic, a beloved American tradition for generations, returns to primetime with an exciting CBS special celebrating the creativity, passion and talent of America’s best home bakers. The special will be hosted by Emmy Award-winning Drew Barrymore, whose very first acting role was in a Pillsbury commercial at 11 months old.
Airing on Monday, Nov. 23 (8:00-10:00 p.m. ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network and streaming on Paramount+ (Premium), Pillsbury Bake-Off Classic brings together talented contestants from across the country for five rounds of baking challenges that put their technical skills and imagination to the test.
From cookies for a cookie exchange to Thanksgiving pies, each challenge encourages home bakers to create unforgettable recipes by putting innovative twists on beloved Pillsbury products while demonstrating their mastery of from-scratch baking.
Throughout the competition, celebrity chef judges Christina Tosi and Dook Chase will evaluate the home bakers’ creations, bringing their expertise and personalities to each round as the contestants compete for a coveted spot in the finale.
The top baker from each round will earn a coveted spot in the ultimate “Best in Bake” finale, where finalists will create spectacular “Edible Festive Wreaths for the Holidays.”
“Bringing the Pillsbury Bake-Off Classic back to primetime television after more than 20 years is an exciting way to celebrate the creativity and joy home bakers have shared with us for generations,” said Maria Carolina Comings, vice president and business unit director for Pillsbury at General Mills.
“We’re thrilled to kick off the holiday baking season on such a large stage and inspire both longtime fans and a new generation of viewers.”
Beyond the competition, the special will showcase the personal stories, traditions and inspiration behind the home bakers and the recipes they bring to the table, celebrating the creativity that has made the Pillsbury Bake-Off Classic a beloved American baking tradition.
After five rounds of challenges, inspiring stories, delicious creations and fierce competition, one exceptional home baker will rise above the rest to be crowned the 2026 Pillsbury Bake-Off Classic Champion.
The winner will take home a $25,000 cash prize and a KitchenAid equipment package, capping off an unforgettable night that celebrates the very best of home baking and the joy of sharing food with family and friends during the holiday season.
Pillsbury Bake-Off Classic is produced by Studio Large Eyes, Pantheon Media Group and Juma Entertainment. Executive producers include Scott Weintrob for Studio Large Eyes, Jennifer O’Connell, Ariel Brozell, Eden Sutley and Martha Chaput for Pantheon, Robert Horowitz for Juma Entertainment, and Brielle Cohen is showrunner.
Lisa Balzo, Kenzie Caron and Eleanor Harkness serve as executive producers for General Mills.
