Ep 8. Happy Birthday MasterChef

In this episode of MasterChef season 6, the contestants celebrate the show's 10th anniversary with a birthday bash. The challenge begins with a team relay, where the red team and blue team have to work together to create 30 birthday cupcakes in just 75 minutes. The cupcakes are judged by pastry chef Christina Tosi, who declares the red team the winners.

For the second part of the challenge, the contestants are tasked with creating a birthday cake fit for the MasterChef anniversary celebration. The cakes must be at least three tiers and should capture the spirit of the show's mission to find America's next MasterChef. The contestants are given just two hours to complete their cakes, but are given an extra 15 minutes if they successfully answer a question about past seasons of the show.

The contestants get straight to work, each bringing their unique style and creativity to their cakes. Derrick, the youngest contestant, decides to pay homage to his grandfather’s birthday cake recipe while Claudia incorporates her love of coffee into her cake. Nick works on incorporating savory elements, and Stephen decides to show off his skills with intricate piping work.

As the clock ticks down, tensions rise in the kitchen. Some contestants struggle with their cakes, while others maintain their cool and focus on perfection. The judges, Gordon Ramsay, Christina Tosi, and Graham Elliot, show up to inspect the cakes and taste samples. They are pleased overall with the quality of the cakes, but there are a few that don't impress them.

In the end, the judges declare Derrick and Claudia the top two contestants of the challenge. Derrick's classic vanilla cake with layers of buttercream frosting and Claudia's mocha cake with salted caramel buttercream both earn high praise. The judges deliberate over which cake is the winner, but in the end, they announce that the challenge ends in a tie, and both Derrick and Claudia will receive immunity in the next elimination challenge.

The episode ends with the contestants reflecting on the journey so far and expressing their gratitude for the opportunity to be a part of the MasterChef family. It's clear that the show has had a significant impact on each of their lives, and they are all determined to continue cooking and pursuing their culinary dreams.