Food: Bret & Amy Doerring Ugliest Cake

Young Bakers Claim Ugliest Cake Honors at the State Fair

The ugliest cakes from across the state faced off in confectionary competition in the Bret and Amy Doerring Ugliest Cake competition judged Friday, August 9, at the 2024 Iowa State Fair.

In the Ages 7 to 11 Class, Phillip Reeder of Des Moines won first place and a $500 cash award. Rosa Woods of Des Moines earned second place and $250. Lorelei Kowlessar of Des Moines claimed third place and $125.

In the Ages 12 to 17 Class, Keifer Bedwell of New Viriginia won first place and $500. Claire Tigges of Waukee claimed second place and $250. Leeah Hartman of Knoxville earned third place and $125.

The Iowa State Fair Food Department is the largest of any state fair in the country. There were 140 divisions, 726 classes and over 6,400 entries at this year’s Fair. Food Department judging is held in the Elwell Family Food Center.