With the country in full 'Great British Bake Off' mode, we caught up with Scottish favourite Flora to find out what it's really like in the tent.
How, and when, did you get the baking bug?
I have no memories of not baking – both my mum and granny are amazing bakers and cooks. It was always the done thing!
Any particularly memorable disasters along the way?
A million disasters, the majority of which involved icing sugar explosions and burnt cakes.
Although the creations on your site are definitely a step up from your average home baker, I’ve heard the 'GBBO' application process is pretty daunting. What gave you the final push to enter?
My sister Hebe was very encouraging when it came to applying. I don't reckon I would have gone for it had it not been for her bullying me into doing it. Also I was on a year out from studying and doing my blog whilst not working at the gallery. I think the timing is pretty important when it comes to these sorts of things. Had I still been at uni I doubt I would have gone for it.
What are Paul and Mary really like?
Paul and Mary certainly make sure you have your wits about you. Mary is very encouraging regardless of how badly you have done (arctic roll and cheesecake spring to mind!). She always finds one small success to point out.
Are Mel and Sue really that disruptive in the tent?
Mel and Sue are beyond fantastic and although disruptive, it's for all the right reasons – it's only cake! They are responsible for a lot of laughs and my sides aching repeatedly.
Young Scots have a history of 'Bake Off' success (James Morton, series three). Are there any previous contestants or other baking idols who you look to for inspiration?
I hugely admire James Morton for both his bakes on the show and for what he has gone on to achieve afterwards. I think both of his books are modern classics for any baker. I also loved Francis's creativity and I am really enjoying her new book. You can tell a lot of time has gone into it. Richard and Kate also inspired me last year.
Speaking of Scotland, do you have a soft spot for any of our national confections?
I love a wee shortbread or slice of tablet. Scotland has an amazing culture for small distilleries making great whiskies and gins currently, so I would love to try and incorporate them into bakes. Also Scottish heather honey is a fantastic ingredient for any cake or bake. We are very fortunate to have an amazing amount of interesting ingredients on our doorstep.
We hear you’re off to St Andrews this autumn (well done!) - how are you planning on balancing the baking schedule around a busy student lifestyle?
I think it will be a tricky one but I am so looking forward getting back to studying. I really enjoy the uni atmosphere. There will of course be cake sessions between lectures – I wouldn't have it any other way.
Is a career in food on the cards for you? What can we expect from you in the future?
Career-wise I have never had a game plan (and still don't!) but I would really enjoy doing something with food. I am having great fun doing various 'Bake Off'-related things at the moment and I am still trying to update the blog as much as possible. Who knows what's next? I am very grateful for the opportunities that have arisen so far.
Is there anything people might be surprised to learn about you?
I don't know about surprises but I am a big film fan. One of my favourite things to do is go to the cinema. I am also a bit of a gin head and would take a few drinks in the pub with friends over clubbing any day. I also have an obscene collection of crockery and cookbooks – I am obsessed. I do reckon that comes with the territory though.
Any words of wisdom for those spurred on by the show, looking to up their baking game?
It is one of the easiest (and to begin with cheapest) things to get into. People are scared of starting but I think if you read recipes properly, and do a little research online into things that have maybe not worked out first time, you will be fine. There is so much material and advice available for people starting out, I see no reason why everyone shouldn't become a better baker!
One final, loaded question: favourite bake?
One of the producers, Mark, would ask me this after every interview and I would change my mind hourly. I love cakes in any flavour and if you have great starring ingredients then butter, sugar and flour will only make it better. In fact Mark recommended a shot of coffee in sticky toffee pudding alongside some dates and that is currently a bit of a winner in my eyes. Very few things beat really good sourdough, toasted and served with salty butter and marmalade though. I am big on simple everyday bakes as well as ornate creations.
The Great British Bake Off airs on Wednesdays at 8pm, BBC One.