Central Bucks 6th Grader Wins 'Chopped Junior'

A local chef has earned nationwide recognition — and she’s only in 6th grade.

Bridge Valley 6th grader Ellie Kuhnle was featured in the Food Network’s new program “Chopped Junior.”

“She won!! Ellie’s dazzling culinary skills and nerves of steel have earned her a large cash prize and instant fame. Congratulations, Ellie!,” Central Bucks school district posted via Facebook.

During the episode, Ellie is one of four aspiring chefs take over the Chopped Kitchen and face judges Billy Gardell and Marcela Valladolid and Geoffrey Zakarian.

“In the first round, they must tame the sweetness of some basket items. Pizza is a fine surprise in the entree round, but lamb loins stump some of the young competitors. Then, lemon curd and a fun retro candy get a spin for desser,” according to an episode description.

“When I’m in the kitchen, I feel free,” Ellie says on the show. “My food personality is big and quirky. I don’t want to fit in, I want to stand out and be a Chopped champion.”