The award-winning Georgia Turtle Delight cheesecake from Jessicakes Bakery.
Jessicakes Bakery in Covington, Georgia, has been awarded the top honor at the Flavor of Georgia Food Product Contest for its Georgia Turtle Delight cheesecake. Featuring a fudgy brownie crust and a rich filling, the cheesecake was praised for its unique flavors and use of local ingredients. Owner Jessica Channell plans to add it to her regular offerings after securing her first win in this competition. With 21 years of baking experience, Channell continues to prioritize personalized relationships with customers over competitive pursuits, enhancing her bakery’s reputation in the community.
Covington, Georgia – Jessicakes Bakery has achieved significant acclaim as its Georgia Turtle Delight cheesecake was awarded top honor at the Flavor of Georgia Food Product Contest, hosted by the University of Georgia’s College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES). The contest, which showcases innovative food products made with Georgia-grown ingredients, recognized Channell’s cheesecake for its unique flavor profile and local sourcing.
The Georgia Turtle Delight cheesecake features a blend of a fudgy brownie crust, a rich and creamy filling made with just five uncomplicated ingredients, and a delectable topping of chocolate ganache, house-made caramel, and toasted Georgia pecans. The combination of flavors provides a delightful balance that judges found appealing.
In its annual competition, the Flavor of Georgia Contest includes multiple categories, including dairy products, sauces, condiments, and baked goods. Jessica Channell, the owner of Jessicakes Bakery, submitted her cheesecake as part of the cake category. After successfully passing a preliminary judging round in March, she advanced to the finals held on April 17. Channell faced tough competition, with two other finalists: a traditional pound cake from Tyrone and chocolate-covered fruitcake bites from Thomson.
The judging criteria for the contest were comprehensive, evaluating entries based on flavor and texture, ingredient quality, potential market viability, consumer appeal, and the connection to Georgia’s local agricultural themes. The six judges evaluated the entries and provided positive feedback, particularly praising the local sourcing of Jessicakes Bakery’s ingredients and the meticulous in-house preparation of the flavors. The positive reception of her cheesecake has contributed to its recognition as a standout entry in the competition.
Channell expressed excitement regarding this achievement, as it marks her second contest entered and her first win. To celebrate her success, she plans to add the Georgia Turtle Delight cheesecake to her bakery’s regular offerings. While Jessicakes Bakery specializes in custom cake orders to maintain freshness and minimize waste, cupcakes and cookies are also available for purchase every Friday, catering to the local community’s sweet tooth.
With a baking career spanning 21 years, Jessica Channell began her journey from her home kitchen before evolving into the award-winning establishment that Jessicakes Bakery is today. Throughout her growth, she has received notable support from her fiancé, Ricky Hilliard, who has played an essential role in the establishment and day-to-day operation of the bakery since its formation.
Despite her success in the contest, Channell has no intentions of entering more competitive events. Instead, she prioritizes personalized interactions with her customers, focusing on building relationships with her clientele over expanding her bakery’s market presence. This customer-centered approach has contributed to Jessicakes Bakery’s reputation within the Covington community and beyond, emphasizing the importance of quality, local ingredients and the art of baking.
The recent accolade signifies not just a personal achievement for Channell but also highlights the culinary talents present within Georgia’s vibrant food scene, encouraging local producers and bakers alike to innovate in their offerings. As the Georgia Turtle Delight cheesecake gains attention, it encapsulates the spirit of local flavors and commitment to quality that defines the Flavor of Georgia Contest.
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