Crossword Genius

Expert’s baking attempt (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

hotshot

'expert's' is the definition.
(hotshot is a kind of expert)

'baking attempt' is the wordplay.
'baking' becomes 'hot' (similar in meaning).
'attempt' becomes 'shot' (shot is a kind of attempt).
'hot'+'shot'='HOTSHOT'

(Other definitions for hotshot that I've seen before include "Top player" , "Expert" , "Important person" , "Showily successful person" , "successful type?" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.