Giuseppe Dell’Anno

Giuseppe Dell’Anno grew up in Italy, immersed in a culture that deeply valued food and baking, influenced by his extended family of passionate food lovers and professional bakers. Despite this rich culinary background, he initially pursued a career in chemical engineering. He studied at Pisa University before moving to the UK in his mid-20s to complete a doctorate in composite materials, which led to an academic and industrial career focused on research. His engineering work involved baking composite airplane wings in large ovens, an experience that, in retrospect, presented an ironic parallel to his eventual shift to conventional baking.

In 2021, Dell’Anno gained widespread recognition as the first Italian to win The Great British Bake Off. This achievement marked a significant turning point, prompting him to transition from his engineering profession to a full-time focus on baking. His engineering background continues to influence his baking style, characterized by precision and methodical execution, often incorporating rulers and spirit levels into his process. He attributes much of his informal baking education to his father, a professional chef who instilled in him a love for preparing food and meticulously decorating cakes for family and friends.

Since his victory, Dell’Anno has expanded his culinary activities, sharing his acquired gastronomic knowledge. He has authored his first recipe book, “Giuseppe’s Easy Bakes: Sweet Italian Treats,” which features accessible Italian-inspired recipes. Additionally, he conducts baking classes, including sessions at Foodworks Cookery School, and has established a catering business, specializing in cakes. He has successfully integrated into the Gloucestershire food scene after relocating to Cheltenham, participating in local events such as the Cheltenham Food & Drink Festival.