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'Christmas Cookie Challenge' Season 7: Meet the talented panel of judges savoring festive flavors

In Season 7 of the 'Christmas Cookie Challenge', contestants will create delectable Christmas cookies

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA: Get ready to indulge in a winter wonderland of sweets and treats as the highly anticipated new season of 'Christmas Cookie Challenge' returns to delight your taste buds and ignite your holiday spirit.

In this beloved holiday competition, contestants battle to create the most delectable, awe-inspiring Christmas cookies.

With a panel of expert judges at the helm, this show has become renowned for its unique blend of creativity, culinary expertise, and the heartwarming nostalgia that can only be found during the festive season. Join us as we unwrap the magic of the 'Christmas Cookie Challenge' Season 7 and introduce you to the talented judges ready to make this holiday season even sweeter!

Eddie Jackson - Host

Meet the multi-talented Eddie Paul Jackson Jr, a man whose journey has taken him from the football field to the culinary arena. Back in 2004, he stepped onto the NFL scene, signing with the Carolina Panthers as an undrafted free agent. Fast forward to 2013, and he was showcasing his culinary prowess on Season 4 of 'MasterChef', where he left a lasting impression, finishing in seventh place.

But that was just the beginning of his culinary adventure. In 2015, he took on a whole new challenge, competing on Season 11 of 'Food Network Star'. It was a fierce competition, but Eddie emerged victorious, besting eleven other talented contestants.

Post-football, he transitioned into the culinary world, pursuing his lifelong passion by acquiring a food truck in Houston. Eddie Jackson: a man of many talents, has made his mark on both the field and the kitchen.

James Briscione

Meet the culinary sensation, James Briscione, a true expert in the world of food. As the director of culinary research at the Institute of Culinary Education, he's been at the forefront of culinary innovation. Notably, James leads the way as the top chef on IBM's groundbreaking Chef Watson project.

What truly sets him apart is his remarkable achievement as the first-ever two-time champion on the intense culinary battleground of Food Network's 'Chopped'. His mastery of the kitchen has earned him a regular spot on the Food Network, where he dons various hats, from hosting and judging on television to taking the lead in original digital series across Food Network's diverse streaming platforms.

Hailing from the vibrant culinary scene of New York City, James Briscione is a culinary maestro who continues to delight food enthusiasts worldwide. Adding to his culinary prowess, James Briscione is also renowned as one of the discerning judges on the exciting 'Christmas Cookie Challenge'. 

Ree Drummond

Anne Marie Drummond, affectionately known as Ree or 'The Pioneer Woman', is more than just a celebrity chef. Hailing from a picturesque working ranch in Pawhuska, Oklahoma, she's not only a renowned blogger, author, food writer, and photographer but also a captivating television personality.

Ree, who gained fame through her food blog, captured hearts as a judge and co-host on the 'Christmas Cookie Challenge'. Alongside her husband, Ladd Drummond, she tends to their ranch, where their four children add to the warmth and charm of their life in the heartland of America.

Jordan Pilarski

Jordan Pilarski, a culinary virtuoso, has taken the reins as the Executive Pastry Chef at the illustrious Ojai Valley Inn. This award-winning luxury resort, nestled in the scenic landscape of Ojai, California, has a rich history as a premier culinary destination.

Jordan Pilarski's appointment is a delightful addition to their gastronomic legacy. Born in 1994, Jordan Pilarski has not only been a talented pastry chef but also a sought-after guest judge for numerous culinary shows.

'Christmas Cookie Challenge' rotating panel judges 

Kimberly Bailey

Kimberly Bailey, not just a Food Network judge but a talented cake artist, is the proud owner of The Butter End Cakery located in Los Angeles. Her journey to cake artistry began in a unique way when she relocated from New York to Los Angeles in 2008 and faced a battle with cancer.

It was during this challenging time that Kimberly discovered her passion for cake decorating. Through the art of baking and crafting delectable cakes, she found solace and healing, diving headfirst into experimenting with new recipes and honing her cake decoration skills.

Damiano Carrara

At 38 years old, Damiano Carrara hails from Italy, where he dons the hats of a skillful chef, a passionate restaurateur, and an accomplished cookbook author. His culinary journey saw a victorious turn when he claimed the title of champion on Food Network's 'Cutthroat Kitchen', Season 11, in a memorable episode known as 'Chocotage XXL'.

But Damiano didn't stop there; he brought his culinary prowess to another Food Network competition as a special guest on Season 2 of 'Spring Baking Championship'. His talent and charisma landed him in the third-place spot on 'Food Network Star', Season 12.

Jamika Pessoa

Meet the multi-talented Jamika Pessoa, a classically-trained chef who wears many hats – she's a television host, influencer, speaker, wife, and mother. Chef Jamika's journey to stardom began with her appearance on Food Network's 'Next Food Network Star' back in 2009, where she quickly won the hearts of fans and became a 'fan favorite' contestant.

Her magnetic presence and culinary skills have since graced the screens of nationally acclaimed television shows such as 'Good Morning America', 'The Wendy Williams Show', and the 'Tamron Hall Show', solidifying her status as a renowned figure in the culinary world.

Aarti Sequeira

Meet the dynamic Aarti Lucia Sequeira, a 45-year-old Indian American culinary sensation and television personality. Aarti shot to fame when she emerged victorious in the Sixth Season of Food Network's 'The Next Food Network Star'. Following her win in 2010, she made her mark with her own show, 'Aarti Party', which debuted on the network.

Born in India, and raised in Dubai, Aarti's culinary journey has been shaped by the diverse and rich tapestry of food cultures that have influenced her life.

Joy Wilson

Venturing from the sunny shores of California to the vibrant streets of New Orleans, Joy Wilson, the delightful internet sensation better known as 'Joy the Baker', found her true calling in the magic of home baking.

It all began in 2008 when Joy set up her blog, a virtual haven where she generously shares her enchanting recipes that strike a perfect balance between indulgence, comfort, and a welcoming simplicity.

Mark your calendars for the grand return, as the fresh season of 'Christmas Cookie Challenge,' Season 7, is set to kick off on Thursday, November 2, exclusively on the Food Network.