Host Wells Adams welcomes 14 talented bakers to the Yuletide Lodge, where they'll compete for the chance to lead their own Sweet Empire and win $50,000. In their first challenge, each baker must create a holiday showpiece that represents how they celebrate at home. Judges Yolanda Gampp and Jacques Torres choose the top six bakers to become empire leaders, who will then pick their partners to form six empires of two.

Host Wells Adams asks the six empires to channel childhood nostalgia as they create holiday showpieces inspired by vintage toys, with a requirement to incorporate movement. Experts Yolanda Gampp and Jacques Torres judge the bakers on their creativity, craftsmanship, and flavor. In a dramatic shake-up, the bottom empires will disband and be absorbed by the strongest teams.

In honor of the new blockbuster, "The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants," host Wells Adams challenges the empires to dive under the sea to create edible 3D movie posters featuring SpongeBob, Patrick, Mr. Krabs, and the Flying Dutchman. Each team of bakers must design a frame, sculpt a bold character, and defy gravity with their build, all while delivering festive sponge cake flavors! Judges Yolanda Gampp and Jacques Torres decide which empires sink and which ones swim.

Host Wells Adams presents the remaining empires with one of the most deceptive challenges yet: creating hyperrealistic cakes that look like a holiday feast. From turkeys and hams to side dishes, every creation must look picture-perfect but taste like a decadent dessert. The baking teams that can deliver both flawless illusion and unforgettable flavor for judges Yolanda Gampp and Jacques Torres will continue their empire's reign.

The empires journey to the Arctic for their biggest build yet, as host Wells Adams asks the baking teams to make towering showpieces of iconic North Pole animals. Polar bears, walrus, and even snow owls come to life through sugar, chocolate, and cake. Judges Yolanda Gampp and Jacques Torres are looking for scale, accuracy, and cozy flavors that could warm even the coldest winter's night.

The final two empires face off in a holiday showdown. Host Wells Adams gives the bakers complete creative freedom to build an entire edible world that celebrates the holiday season. Alongside their showpiece, each team must deliver a tasting element worthy of the finale for judges Yolanda Gampp and Jacques Torres. Only one empire will rise above the rest to claim the $50,000 prize and the crown of Sweet Empire.