Great British Bake Off contestants struggle with 'daunting' twist in huge show first

A fresh batch of contestants entered the Great British Bake Off tent on Tuesday night as the new series began.

Following their first task of making a loaf cake to impress judges Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith, it was time for the dreaded technical.

Usually, the bakers have a set of ingredients under a gingham teatowel with a sheet of simple instructions they have to follow.

Although this year, the Channel 4 show decided to switch things up as they weren't given any recipe to follow.

Instead, they were given small pieces of Battenberg to sample and were told to recreate 12 identical ones from taste alone.

When they learnt the twist, it was clear the bakers weren't confident to make it without knowing the exact measurements they needed.

One of them confessed: "I have no idea what I'm doing!"

While the bakers continued with their task, Prue and Paul spoke outside about what they had to do.

Prue said: "I think a Battenberg is a tricky enough challenge as it is and you've not even given them a recipe!

"It is the first time we've given them an actual cake, this is what you're aiming for."

Before the two judges left the tent, Paul gave them a small piece of advice as he told them the majority of the cake would rely on equal quantities

In the end, the bakers all managed to complete the task, with some being more successful than others.

Georgie was the baker to finish in first place, with Christiaan following close behind in second.

Once it was over, 71-year-old Hazel said: "Bit daunting that was, I'm used to following a recipe. I'm glad I didn't come last."

People watching were quick to share their thoughts on the technical challenge twist.

One person said: "CRAZY technical twist I love it! Real tv is back"

Someone else wrote: "That’s a massive twist on technicals."

"Plot twist on Bake Off!!! What a time to be alive," wrote another.

Sharing their shock, one viewer commented: "The taste-and-bake plot twist in the technical challenge. My jaw has DROPPED."

"Really like the change to the technical challenge," said one person.

While another tweeted: "That technical was stressful."

The Great British Bake Off continues Tuesdays on Channel 4 from 8pm