The bake-off is open to kids (ages 8-12), teens (ages 13-18), adults (ages 19+), and professional bakers. Professionals are bakers or employees of businesses who sell cookies for profit.

All cookies must be homemade from scratch using chocolate chips as the main ingredient. Cookies should be round, 2 to 3 inches in diameter, and contestants must submit at least one dozen (12) cookies.

Yes! You can add nuts, dried fruits, or any other ingredients, as long as the primary focus remains on chocolate chips. Please note on your entry label if your cookies are gluten-free, sugar-free, lactose-free, vegan, or nut-free.

Registration opens online from March 1 to April 19, 2025. You can sign up on our waitlist to get first access to the registration form. The registration fee is $10, payable at the time of registration.

Each category is limited to 20 entrants, so be sure to register early to secure your spot!

Yes, multiple members from the same household can enter the bake-off, as long as each contestant registers separately and adheres to the contest rules.

Attach a label to the underside of your tray/plate with your entry number (from registration), age category, and recipe. Please include your name. Be sure to note any dietary information like gluten-free or vegan.

Cookies must be presented on a 10" white paper plate with no decorations or embellishments not associated with the cookies. Please cover the plate with clear plastic wrap and label it as instructed.

No, all trays and plates must be disposable and will not be returned.

Cookies must be dropped off on Saturday, April 26, 2025, between 9:00 am and 10:30 am at the table near to the left of the entrance to ChocoFest at Millennium Place. See Location

Cookies will be judged on taste (40%), texture (25%), appearance (20%), and creativity (15%). Judges’ decisions are final.

Each participant can only enter one category.

Unfortunately, we cannot accept any entries submitted after 10:30am on Saturday, April 26, 2025. Please make sure to arrive within the designated drop-off time.

Please be mindful of common allergens and list all ingredients used on your label. We recommend avoiding nuts for the safety of all participants.

Winners will be announced at 2:00 pm on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at the main stage during ChocoFest.

Prizes will be awarded to the top three contestants in each age category. Prizes may include gift cards, baking supplies, cookbooks, or other relevant items.

Yes, participants are required to sign a photo and general release form, allowing us to use photos, videos or recipes in our marketing or future cookbooks. This helps us promote the event and showcase the wonderful baking skills of our contestants.