Artisan and commercial bakers vied for top honors in the California Raisin Marketing Board's (CRMB) second annual baking competition, which was hosted by the American Institute of Baking (AIB) in Manhattan, Kan., Oct. 9-10. The competition included a total of 30 finalists, made up of both professional and student bakers from across the country.

In the artisan category, Larry Lobe, Dawn Food Products, Phoenix, won the grand prize for his Sicilian Raisin Bread. Ronald Guerrero, Caravan Ingredients, Lenexa, Kan., took the top prize in the commercial category for his Natural Swirl Raisin Bread with 50% more raisins.

“The California Raisin Marketing Board believes it is important for the baking world to have this type of event to showcase the skill and passion of the working baker,” said Larry Blagg, senior vice president of marketing, CRMB. “Our contest is aimed at discovering the best and most creative California raisin breads and in our second year of the competition I continue to be astounded with the innovation and quality of the products created by these professional and student bakers.”

Of the 30 finalists, a total of 12 winners were chosen to participate in an all-expense paid visit to California to experience the growing areas and production of California raisins, and enjoy California cuisine and wines at the Culinary Institute of America in St. Helena.

The third annual America's Best Raisin Bread Contest will kick off in January 2010, with all entries to be received no later than August 14th, 2010. Visit www.calraisins.org for more information.