Cookbook Spotlight: Momofuku Milk Bar by Christina Tosi

Word on the street is that the legendary bakery Momofuku Milk Bar will finally have a Los Angeles location (with a yet to be announced opening date.) But back before the bakery became a dessert empire, and before I could dream of a California location, I was the proud owner of the Momofuku Milk Bar cookbook.

I'm sad to say I have not made it through all the recipes in the book yet (I'm comin' for you Pistachio Layer Cake!), but happy to say I have made their Birthday Cake recipe multiple times. The Birthday Cake recipe is their version of funfetti-style, sprinkle-packed celebration cake. I'll always hold this recipe close to my heart. It was the one I tested several times to make sure it was perfect for a friend's wedding. It was the book that convinced me my baking habits warranted buying the jumbo sized commercial container of sprinkles. And now it's the recipe I keep coming back to when I need that little extra sprinkle factor in my life. I highly recommend it if you're looking for that perfect classic funfetti cake recipe, especially because these little colorful cakes are guaranteed to spread happiness and cheer.

Recently I made a batch of mini celebration cakes, and I found myself reflecting about my journey in food and having a little celebration of my own. Back in the day, I used to dream about the idea of cooking and baking all day. I would visit bakeries and restaurants and think about how amazing it would be to immerse myself in the study of food. Fast forward to now and I'm lucky to constantly experiment with it and learn new things every day. I am also lucky to know many incredible mentors, teachers, coworkers, and peers in the industry. To everyone who has taken the time to show me a trick of the trade, share a technique, help me out of the weeds during a rush, lend a hand, or offer a word of encouragement, please know that I celebrate you every day.