Allen Countians of all ages are whisking, measuring and baking tasty treats for the Allen County Fair, which starts this weekend.
The open class judging will begin at 9 a.m. Tuesday. Carol Crawford, a member of the fair board, is in charge of organizing the open food category and participates herself.
Crawford has been a part of the fair for about 15 years. She started bringing food to fairs when she was 9 years old.
“I enjoy doing it and I always have,” she said.
In the past Crawford has brought angel food cake, cookies and banana chiffons.
During the closed judging, judges look at the appearance of the entry, serving size, taste and if it is over baked. If the participant is entering cookies the judge wants to see a uniform size.
Cakes can be a tricky entry.
“The judge will cut into a cake and see if there are tunnel holes in it and if it is baked completely,” Crawford said. “They will also turn items over and make sure it’s not burnt on the bottom.”
Believe it or not, the weather can affect the outcome of the judging. If it is humid outside, which is common in Kansas in July, cakes and cookies won’t set properly.
“We have had a few catastrophes over the years,” Crawford said with a chuckle.
The judging depends on the year and the judge.
“I always say it’s one person’s opinion on any given day,” Crawford said.
The food entries will be sold after the judging.
At 6 p.m. Tuesday the apple pie contest will take place. Participants may enter their pies at the Little Theater.
Open class food judging kicks off Allen County Fair week activities
