Exploring the Journey of Jon’nae “Jaye”Smith on Spring Baking Championship Season 11
The eleventh season of the Spring Baking Championship is currently captivating viewers on the Food Network, featuring ten talented bakers vying for a grand prize of $25,000 and the coveted title of Spring Baking Champion. One standout contestant is Jon’nae “Jaye” Smith, a pastry chef hailing from Atlanta, who brings a unique blend of culinary influences from her South Florida upbringing and experiences in Atlanta’s vibrant food scene.
Jaye Smith’s Baking Journey
In an exclusive interview with Rough Draft Atlanta on March 31, 2025, Smith discussed her baking evolution, the impact of her mentors, and her experience on national television. A member of the New South chef collective, Smith revealed how her passion for baking ignited at a young age.
“I decided I wanted to be a pastry chef around 17 years old after I baked a dense cake, and I couldn’t figure out what had happened. Baking intrigued me because of the science that goes with it,” she explained.
Smith’s culinary journey began at age five with her Easy-Bake Oven, but it transformed into a professional pursuit during her college years when she initiated a small baking venture called Jaye’s Creations.
Experience on Spring Baking Championship
Representing Atlanta on a prestigious platform, Smith shared her insights about competing in the Spring Baking Championship. She emphasized how her experiences working at renowned restaurants such as Canoe and Bread & Butterfly helped refine her skills.
Reflecting on her experience on the show, Smith described it as a journey packed with long hours and invaluable lessons. She noted the personal growth she experienced while being in the spotlight.
“My experience on the show was amazing. I learned so many new things about myself as a person, chef, and an actress,” she added.
Smith cherished the relationships she formed with fellow contestants including Corey Jamison, Rav Oberoi (affectionately known as “Ravioli”), and Stacy Flores. They frequently explored the city together during filming breaks.
Despite the competitive atmosphere, the camaraderie blossomed among the contestants, allowing them to forge lasting connections well beyond the competition.
“We still maintain our connection today, and I’m grateful,” she said.
Influences and Mentorship
From an early age, Jon’nae Smith’s baking aspirations were nurtured by her family, especially her mother and grandmother, who gifted her the Easy-Bake Oven that sparked her passion.
“I began baking as a young girl, maybe 5, with my easy bake oven,” she said.
Her profound curiosity emerged at seventeen, following an incident with a dense cake that she couldn’t understand, prompting her to delve deeper into the world of baking.
During college, she further honed her craft through Jaye’s Creations, where she often cooked for friends and family. Her active Instagram account serves as a nostalgic reminder of her early beginnings.
Professionally, Smith has gained experience at esteemed Atlanta establishments, including Four Seasons Atlanta, Loews Hotel, and Bread & Butterfly. Additionally, she participated in the much-lauded Heritage Supper Club dinner series and worked at The Hill at Serenbe.
Smith credits chefs Arlety Estevez and Demetrius Brown from Bread & Butterfly as crucial mentors in her career. She also acknowledges the influence of local pastry chefs such as Nickey Boyd, Charmain Ware, Sadé McMullen (Chef Sam), and Claudia Martinez.
Some of her favorite spots in Atlanta include Bread & Butterfly, Kupcakerie in East Point, Auburn Angel, Sauce Queen Kitchen & Pantry, and Marcus Bar and Grille.
Catch new episodes of the Spring Baking Championship airing every Monday on the Food Network!