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North Texas Bakers Shine on Gordon Ramsay’s New Show

Energetic baking competition with various ingredients and tools

Dallas, November 25, 2025

Two North Texas bakers, Maricsa Trejo and Nikki Jackson, are set to compete on the new baking competition show ‘Next Level Baker.’ Premiering on December 4, the show highlights their talents and entrepreneurial spirit against a backdrop of culinary innovation in Dallas. As they face off in high-stakes challenges, they not only showcase their skills but also promote the rich culinary culture of the region. With renowned judges guiding them, Trejo and Jackson aim to inspire local entrepreneurs and highlight the importance of supporting small businesses.

Dallas, Texas

North Texas Bakers Step into Spotlight on ‘Next Level Baker’

Two talented bakers from North Texas, Maricsa Trejo and Nikki Jackson, are making waves in the culinary world as they compete on Gordon Ramsay’s new baking competition show, Next Level Baker, which premieres on December 4, 2025, at 8 p.m. on Fox. Their journey exemplifies the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit characteristic of Dallas’s thriving small business community. This level of local talent underscores the positive impacts of embracing innovation and the spirit of competition that can drive economic growth while supporting local businesses.

Through their participation in this high-stakes baking challenge, both Trejo, who owns La Casita Bakeshop in Richardson, and Jackson, who runs Absolutely Edible Cakes and Catering in Rowlett, are setting an inspiring example of how local entrepreneurs can gain visibility on a national stage. As they showcase their skills in a competitive environment, it raises awareness of the diverse culinary offerings available in Dallas and the surrounding areas.

Show Details

Next Level Baker pits contestants of varying experience levels against the clock in a fast-paced baking competition. Participants must select ingredients from a designated platform while utilizing a three-tiered kitchen setup that provides equipment and tools of differing quality. This intense format will undoubtedly test the creativity and speed of all involved.

Meet the Contestants

Maricsa Trejo, a seasoned pastry chef and entrepreneur, has made a name for herself with La Casita Bakeshop, which has blossomed into one of the largest bakeries in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. With move into a new 6,000-square-foot space, she has demonstrated significant business growth and community impact through her innovative delicacies. Nikki Jackson brings over two decades of experience in the bakery and catering business with her company, Absolutely Edible Cakes and Catering, a staple in the Rowlett community known for diverse offerings and excellent service.

Celebrity Judges and Mentors

Joining the contestants in this competitive adventure are some notable figures in the culinary world. Celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay leads the show alongside Carla Hall, a celebrated chef and television personality, and Candace Nelson, renowned for founding Sprinkles Cupcakes. Their expert guidance and feedback will challenge participants while providing valuable insights into the baking business.

Impact on the Local Community

Both Trejo and Jackson epitomize the success of Texas entrepreneurs who strive to make their mark not only within the culinary landscape but also in their local communities. Their stories reflect the broader narrative of small businesses in Dallas, where local investments and limited regulations enable rapid growth and innovation. As the culinary scene continues to flourish, such initiatives shed light on the importance of supporting local entrepreneurship as a means to foster economic stability and job growth in the region.

Where to Watch

The premiere episode of Next Level Baker will air on December 4, 2025, at 8 p.m. on Fox. Following the broadcast, it will be available for streaming on Hulu the next day, allowing fans to catch all the exciting moments and culinary creations from the comfort of their homes.

Conclusion

As Next Level Baker approaches its debut, the spotlight continues to shine brightly on Dallas’s small business landscape and the talented entrepreneurs pushing boundaries in the culinary arts. Maricsa Trejo and Nikki Jackson serve as prime examples of resilience and innovation. Viewers are encouraged to show their support by tuning in to this exciting competition and celebrating the local businesses that contribute vibrantly to Dallas’s economic fabric.

FAQs

What is “Next Level Baker”?
“Next Level Baker” is a new baking competition show where contestants of varying experience levels race against the clock to select ingredients from a platform and bake in a three-tiered set featuring kitchens with varying quality and tools.
When does “Next Level Baker” premiere?
The show premieres on December 4, 2025, at 8 p.m. on Fox.
Who are the judges on “Next Level Baker”?
The judges include Gordon Ramsay, Carla Hall, and Candace Nelson.
Where can I watch “Next Level Baker”?
The first episode will air on Fox and will be available to stream the following day on Hulu.
Who are Maricsa Trejo and Nikki Jackson?
Maricsa Trejo is the owner and pastry chef at La Casita Bakeshop in Richardson, Texas, and Nikki Jackson runs Absolutely Edible Cakes and Catering in Rowlett, Texas. Both have established themselves in the North Texas baking community.

Feature Details
Show Title Next Level Baker
Premiere Date December 4, 2025, at 8 p.m. on Fox
Streaming Availability Available to stream the following day on Hulu
Judges Gordon Ramsay, Carla Hall, Candace Nelson
Contestants Maricsa Trejo (La Casita Bakeshop, Richardson, Texas), Nikki Jackson (Absolutely Edible Cakes and Catering, Rowlett, Texas)

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STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER
Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER

The DALLAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDallas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Dallas, Dallas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the State Fair of Texas, Deep Ellum Arts Festival, and Dallas International Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Dallas Regional Chamber and United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, aviation, and semiconductors that power the local economy such as AT&T, Southwest Airlines, and Texas Instruments. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.

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