WATCH: Hebridean Baker hosts exclusive and wholesome cookery event in Inverness
The world famous Hebridean Baker hosted a wholesome cooking demonstration and book signing session last night (Wednesday, July 24) at Bogbain Farm, in Inverness, as part of Highland News and Media’s (HNM) exclusive subscriber-only events.
Coinneach MacLeod started his journey in the kitchen with his many aunties and baked the recipes he knew and loved from the Isle of Lewis.
One day Coinneach had a lightbulb moment, and posted a TikTok video of himself baking within the cosy setting of the island while telling stories, myths and legends.
He said: “Even on mainland Scotland I don’t think people know much about the Islands, so one of my goals was to showcase the culture, our identity, our language and to show that there is a part of Scotland that is a wee bit different.
“What I love about the recipes is they share the adventures I have around the Islands.”
The baker quickly became a global sensation, with over 28 million people watching his videos on TikTok and other platforms. He has also been featured in Elle Magazine as one of their Cosy TikTok Picks.
He said: “I did it very innocently and never expected it to happen. It is all because of my aunt Bella, who is amazing and taught me how to bake.
“I just realised that there were so many amazing recipes with the Hebridean’s and Scottish heritage that could easily have been lost, along with their stories.
“It just went a bit crazy. I thought it would only have been of interest to those on the island, but now millions of people have watched the videos and I’m Scotland's best selling cookbook for the past three years.”
MacLeod has now written three books which entail recipes for cakes, savoury dishes and Christmas bakes, as well as some beautiful stories, songs and photography.
Some recipes include a double dram cake, marmalade shortbread, whisky fondue and salmon wellington.
When talking about his books, he said: “I am a bit of a cookbook nerd and I just want people to be passionate homebakers. I just want people to be able to make something hearty and wholesome.”
The Scottish baker has also appeared on television hosting his very own cookery show on BBC Alba, with his partner and showcases the Scottish Islands.
At this very special HNM exclusive event, the Heridean Baker entertained the audience with a sing-song, lots of baking, a taste of a delightful ginger cake and signed books.
The crowd were mesmerised by the tales of the island, inquisitive about his past, and learnt all about Scottish culture.
Coinneach is now set to continue his love for baking as he begins working on a new show and curating more much-loved home recipes.
