Marcus Tam | GCBS Baker Bio
Marcus Tam, 30 (he/him)
Hometown: Vancouver, BC
Occupation: Tax Manager
Instagram: @pastriesbtmarcus
Marcus always loved desserts, but never tried making them himself until the pandemic. One of his early attempts was a pumpkin pie that was so bad, his fiancée refused to eat his baking long afterward.
In just a few years, he has perfected complex bakes that are edible for all, specializing in highly technical elements like mousse and puff pastry. Marcus shares his baking and love of food with his parents and two brothers, and they balance it out by staying active, playing badminton together. That's not all they have in common: nearly every member of Marcus' family, including his fiancée, are accountants, with the exception of his twin brother. Marcus also enjoys computer gaming, and has even built his own PC.
When did you start baking? My baking journey began almost five years ago. Before that, I never really stepped into the kitchen to make anything, other than making the occasional sandwich or simple lunch but I've always loved eating desserts.
One day, I decided that I wanted to learn how to make them. The first thing I tried to make was choux pastry. I watched YouTube and Instagram videos and it looked simple enough. But, it was not easy. I remember staring at the oven and it was not rising. That was my first taste of failure in baking.
Some people might have decided not to bake but my head was all fireworks trying to troubleshoot what had gone wrong. After several tries, I was finally able to get the choux pastry to rise and expand into that nice beautiful round ball.
What's your signature bake? My family and friends love my pecan tarts. The funny thing is, they are not my favourite tart filling. Even people who don't like pecans are converted when they enjoy my pecan tarts.
What is your fondest memory in the kitchen? Baking with my dad. He's a good cook so I trust his instincts and always have him taste my baking. I enjoy these father-son moments.
Why do you think you can be Canada's Best Amateur Baker? I have the drive to excel. I try 100% in all my bakes.
Watch The Great Canadian Baking Show on CBC Gem.
