Birmingham Duo Competes Again on Hallmark’s Baked With Love Holiday

Get ready to preheat your ovens and warm your hearts, because Birmingham’s own mother-daughter baking duo is stealing the spotlight on Hallmark’s newest holiday competition series, *Baked With Love: Holiday.* This feel-good show is already melting hearts across America, and now, Alabama’s Sally Wicker McKay and her mother, Amy Wicker, are whisking their way into the finals—armed with Southern charm, family tradition, and confections that look straight out of a Christmas movie.

With a *$50,000 grand prize* and a chance to have their creations featured in one of Hallmark’s iconic *Countdown to Christmas* films, this is one sweet story that’s as heartwarming as it is delicious.

The Birmingham Bakers Who Stole Hallmark’s Heart

When *Baked With Love: Holiday* premiered on October 27, viewers were introduced to ten pairs of home bakers from across the country. But it didn’t take long for Sally and Amy to stand out.

Representing the Birmingham metro area, Sally—a food stylist and founder of *Sally’s Confections*—and her mother, Amy, have been winning over judges and fans alike with their creativity, precision, and undeniable chemistry in the kitchen.

So far, the pair has taken home two challenge wins: one for their *Homemade Peach Pie with Canned Peaches,* a nod to Alabama’s fruit-filled summers, and another for their stunning *3-D White Christmas Tree Cake.* They even tied for best cookie wreath in a three-way showdown that left the judges—host Tamera Mowry-Housley, chef Anna Haugh, and New York Times cooking producer Vaughn Vreeland—impressed by their artistry and teamwork.

A Family Recipe for Success

Behind the frosting and fondant lies a story of love, encouragement, and family tradition. Sally credits her mother for sparking her lifelong passion for baking.

Growing up, Amy encouraged her daughter to experiment in the kitchen, letting her make cupcakes and simple desserts that ignited a creative spark. That early encouragement turned into a full-blown career pivot years later when Sally left her banking job in 2009 to raise her children.

As she tells it, she started baking cookies for her son’s birthday and quickly became hooked. What began as a hobby soon evolved into a full-fledged business and blog.

*Sally’s Confections* now serves as both a creative outlet and a platform where she shares recipes, decorating techniques, and reflections on her journey from banker to baker.

Inside the Sweet Competition

Each episode of *Baked With Love: Holiday* features two baking challenges designed to test creativity, technical skill, and teamwork. The stakes are high: not only is there a $50,000 cash prize on the line, but the winning team’s creation will also be featured in a Hallmark *Countdown to Christmas* movie—an honor that could launch a home baker’s career to stardom.

With every challenge, Sally and Amy have shown that their Southern roots give them a unique advantage. Their desserts combine classic comfort with elegant presentation, proving that heartwarming flavors never go out of style.

Whether it’s the buttery crust of their peach pie or the intricate piping on their Christmas tree cake, their attention to detail and heartfelt storytelling shine through every bite.

Meet the Judges and Host

The show’s judging panel brings together culinary expertise and star power. Tamera Mowry-Housley, an Emmy-winning host and actress, leads the competition with her signature warmth and enthusiasm.

Anna Haugh, a celebrated Irish chef and restaurateur, adds a professional chef’s perspective, balancing creativity with technical precision. And Vaughn Vreeland, known for his work as a cooking producer for The New York Times, rounds out the panel with a modern, media-savvy approach to food presentation.

Together, this trio offers contestants a mix of encouragement and constructive critique, helping them elevate their baking while keeping the competition lighthearted and festive.

Sally’s Journey from Banker to Baker

Before she became a food stylist and blogger, Sally’s career looked very different. She spent years in banking, a world far removed from buttercream and pastry bags.

But when she decided to stay home with her young children, she found herself searching for a creative outlet. Baking became a way to unwind, connect with her family, and express herself artistically.

Her first decorated sugar cookies, made for her son’s fourth birthday, were an instant hit among friends and family. Encouraged by their reactions, she began experimenting with new designs, techniques, and recipes.

Over time, her passion grew into a business that allowed her to merge artistry with entrepreneurship. Through *Sally’s Confections,* she now inspires thousands of home bakers to find their own joy in the kitchen.

Recipes Worth Recreating

If you’ve been watching *Baked With Love: Holiday* and wondering how to bring a little Hallmark magic into your own kitchen, you’re in luck. Sally and Hallmark have shared several of the show’s recipes online, including:

• Elmer’s Red Velvet Yule Log – A festive twist on a classic holiday dessert, rich with cocoa and cream cheese frosting.
• I’m Dreaming of a White Christmas Tree – A show-stopping 3-D cake that captures the sparkle of the season.
• Homemade Peach Pie with Canned Peaches – A Southern staple that proves simplicity and flavor go hand in hand.

Each recipe reflects the duo’s philosophy: baking should be fun, approachable, and full of love. Their creations aren’t just desserts—they’re edible memories that bring people together.

What’s Next for the Wickers?

The excitement continues as Sally and Amy return for another round of baking brilliance. Their next appearance airs *Monday, November 10 at 8 PM* on the Hallmark Channel, with the episode available for streaming on *Hallmark+* starting *Tuesday, November 11.*

If you missed the premiere, you can catch Episode 1 for free on *The Roku Channel* and *Sling TV.*

As the competition heats up, Birmingham fans are rallying behind their hometown bakers. Social media is buzzing with support, and local watch parties are turning each episode into a mini celebration.

Why Viewers Can’t Get Enough

Part of what makes *Baked With Love: Holiday* so irresistible is its blend of competition and comfort. Unlike the cutthroat atmosphere of some reality shows, Hallmark’s approach focuses on connection and celebration.

Every episode feels like a warm hug, filled with laughter, learning, and a touch of holiday magic. Viewers tune in not just to see who wins, but to be reminded of what the season—and baking—is really about: love, generosity, and joy.

Sally and Amy embody those values perfectly. Their teamwork, humor, and genuine affection for each other make them a joy to watch.

They remind us that the best recipes aren’t just written on paper—they’re written in shared experiences, family traditions, and the memories we create along the way.

The Sweet Takeaway

From a home kitchen in Birmingham to the bright lights of Hallmark. Sally and Amy Wicker’s journey is a story worth savoring.

It’s proof that sometimes the best moments come when we chase our passions and share them with the people we love. As they keep whipping up magic on *Baked With Love: Holiday*, you can’t help but root for them.

So, grab your mixing bowls and preheat your ovens. If Sally and Amy have shown us anything, it’s that a little love, a dash of courage, and a sprinkle of powdered sugar can make even wild dreams feel possible.