Shaking Up Shortbread

Some big shortie showstoppers are heading for the Highlands...

- LAURA COVENTRY

AN iconic Scottish export is being celebrated this month as Inverness prepares to host the annual Highland Shortbread Showdown.

After months of heats, finalists will gather on March 8 at a Great British Bake Off-style contest as they compete to be crowned shortbread champion. Members of the public have sampled their creations and, after voting for their favourite shortbreads in the regional heats, have made their selections for the grand final at Eden Court.

Open to all of Scotland, the Shortbread Showdown was established in 2023 with a simple aim. "It was to bring communities together to find the best shortbread in the Highlands," says organiser Emma Harrison, destination development manager at Visit Inverness Loch Ness. It was also the organisation's way of attracting tourists to sample the best shortbread, and raise awareness of local businesses.

"It all started with a cuppa and a biscuit," Emma adds. "Digital engagement manager Jo Page and I wanted to think of a collaborative plan to get the Highland bakers together, and what better way than by a contest to see who bakes the best shortbread? It's the nation's favourite biscuit. It's extremely important and, although this is for fun, people take it very seriously."

Jeni lannetta, of Bad Girl Bakery, has been a judge since 2023 and, as an experienced baker, was only too happy to be part of the Highland Shortbread Showdown.