Picture an Australian food scientist who turned her kitchen into a global classroom, whipping up desserts that dazzle and demystifying culinary science—meet Ann Reardon! As the creator of the YouTube channel How to Cook That, Ann has transformed baking education with her infectious enthusiasm and knack for explaining the 'why' behind every recipe. Her journey from dietitian to YouTube sensation and cookbook author is a recipe for inspiration.
With nearly 5 million subscribers, Ann’s channel is a sweet spot for dessert lovers and curious cooks alike. Her bestselling cookbook, Crazy Sweet Creations, blends scientific precision with creative flair, while her editorial work on her husband Dave Reardon’s novel The Deep Enders shows her versatility beyond the oven. Let’s dive into Ann’s story, from her early days to her lasting impact.
The Making of Ann Reardon
Born in Australia to English parents, Ann Reardon grew up with a sweet tooth and a curious mind. Restricted from lollipops except on birthdays, she learned to bake with her mother, collecting recipes like treasures. After studying Nutrition and Food Science at Curtin University in 1992, Ann became a certified dietitian, consulting for food companies and working in public health. Her career took a turn when she became a youth pastor, catering events and teaching young people to cook in her kitchen. In 2011, while nursing her third son, Ann launched How to Cook That as a blog to stay awake during late-night feedings, typing recipes one-handed.
Ann Reardon’s Unforgettable Creations
Ann’s YouTube channel, How to Cook That, launched in 2011, quickly became Australia’s top baking channel. Her videos feature jaw-dropping desserts like a giant KitKat, a 3D Avengers cake, and an Instagram logo mousse, blending pop culture with edible art. Ann’s style is educational yet fun, breaking down complex techniques with food science insights. She explains how fats affect cake texture or why chocolate tempers a certain way, making baking accessible to all.
Her 2021 cookbook, Crazy Sweet Creations, is a bestseller, offering recipes from watermelon pizza to sugar snow globe desserts. Each chapter dives into the science of baking, with experiments like baking 30 cupcake batches to show ingredient effects. Ann also edited The Deep Enders, a young adult novel by her husband Dave, a WWII story of friendship and suspense, showcasing her storytelling skills outside the kitchen. Her series like 'Debunking' and 'Teeny Weeny Baking'—where she crafts miniature foods in a dollhouse kitchen—highlight her creativity and commitment to truth in cooking.
Ann’s work extends to apps like Surprise Cakes, the world’s first augmented reality cake app, bringing 3D dragons and fireworks to desserts. Her ability to merge technology, science, and culinary arts sets her apart, making her a pioneer in digital baking education.
Why Ann Reardon Matters
Ann Reardon’s impact goes beyond recipes. Her channel has inspired millions to experiment in the kitchen, from novices to pastry chefs. By debunking dangerous viral hacks—like a popcorn popper that caused injuries—she’s become a trusted voice against culinary misinformation. Her soothing presence even helps viewers manage anxiety, with some watching her videos to relax. Ann’s cookbook and channel preserve culinary knowledge for future generations, blending history, science, and creativity.
Her influence reaches globally, with media features in Forbes, The Huffington Post, and The Sydney Morning Herald. As a mother of three, Ann balances family and career, proving that passion and persistence can create a lasting legacy. She’s not just teaching baking—she’s sparking curiosity and confidence in kitchens worldwide.
- Birthplace: Australia
- Key Works: How to Cook That (YouTube), Crazy Sweet Creations (cookbook), The Deep Enders (editor)
- Notable Achievement: Nearly 5 million YouTube subscribers
Grab Crazy Sweet Creations and dive into Ann Reardon’s world of edible art and food science fun! Your kitchen adventures are about to get a whole lot sweeter.