Hardee’s 2026 Biscuit Baker Champion: Valerie Knospe

Fifty-two biscuits. Fifteen minutes. One national title on the line. That was the gauntlet facing the finalists at Hardee’s 2026 National Biscuit Baker Competition—and when the flour settled, it was Valerie Knospe of West Union, Iowa, standing at the top.

Hardee’s, the quick-service brand synonymous with its Made From Scratch™ Biscuits, named Knospe its 2026 Biscuit Baker Champion earlier this month after a rigorous climb through local and regional rounds. For a QSR category where speed and consistency define the morning daypart, the competition is more than a feel-good PR moment—it’s a public spotlight on the hands-on craft that keeps breakfast traffic coming back.

Inside the Competition: Speed Meets Scratch-Made Precision

Each finalist had to prepare 52 fresh, fluffy biscuits in just 15 minutes, a test designed to measure both velocity and precision under pressure. Knospe’s technique, consistency, and dedication earned her the title—and a $10,000 cash prize. The second-, third-, and fourth-place finishers each took home $2,500.