2013 World Chocolate Masters Competition Opens

CHICAGOBarry Callebaut has begun the search for the next U.S. National Chocolate Master who will advance to the 2013 World Chocolate Masters to compete against top culinary artisans from 18 countries.

This years theme is Architecture of Taste", and pâtissiers, chefs and chocolatiers will compose flavors and assemble new textures as well as study and design new shapes in their quest for pastry and confectionary innovation. They will create a brand new architecture of taste inspired by Cacao Barry, Callebaut and Carma.

The U.S. competition is now open for registration online. Once registered, contestants are asked to submit an application package, including information about their professional experience, original recipes for chocolate layer cake and molded praline and molded bonbons, as well as a picture of an original chocolate showpiece. Entries are due June 29, 2012.

Up to six finalists will be chosen and flown to Chicago to compete at the state-of-the-art Barry Callebaut Chocolate Academy in November.  As part of the final competition, contestants will make a large chocolate showpiece, a molded praline or molded bonbon and a chocolate dessert. Each contestant also will revisit the donut, and build from his or her own inspired taste. A professional jury will evaluate the creations, based on criteria such as presentation, taste and technical skills.