When the first basket contains licorice, licking the competition on creativity becomes the chefs' main challenge in the appetizer round. The competitors get a jolt of energy in the form of espresso powder, which they must match with flank steak for their entree dish. When it becomes clear that neither finalist's polenta and sherry dessert is a sure thing, who will become the Chopped Champion?
When the first basket contains licorice, licking the competition on creativity becomes the chefs' main challenge in the appetizer round. The competitors get a jolt of energy in the form of espresso powder, which they must match with flank steak for their entree dish. When it becomes clear that neither finalist's polenta and sherry dessert is a sure thing, who will become the Chopped Champion?
Host Jesse Palmer challenges the final three chefs to create a spectacular dessert display that showcases their overall skills. Each chef must deliver a theatrical experience that is inspired by one of three vibrant themes: Carnival, Las Vegas, or Rock Concert After-Party. Judges Duff Goldman, Shinmin Li, Jacques Torres, and Sherry Yard decide which chef will win $50,000 and be crowned the Ultimate Baking Champion.
The spirited ghosts of "A Kitchen Carol" provide holiday inspiration! Katie Lee cooks up a Pork Crown Roast with Roasted Potato and Vegetables. Then, Sunny Anderson makes a Smokey Bar Nut Mix, Alex Guarnaschelli prepares Flaming Provolone with Parsley Toast, and Jeff Mauro whips up an easy Peppermint Skillet Cake. Finally, Geoffrey Zakarian toasts to the holidays with a Blood Orange Sherry Cobbler Cocktail Punch.
Cake master Duff Goldman's team and challenging cake artists Andrew Fuller, April Julian and Dill Barlow create cakes inspired by an alien invasion that feature special effects and lighting. Judges Amaury Guichon, Sherry Yard and Jack Osbourne decide on the $10,000 winner. Then, 50 passionate cake fans enter the arena to pick which of the season's six winning cakes deserves the grand prize and an additional $40,000!
Valerie Bertinelli and her best gals are getting together to give thanks for each other before heading off for their family celebrations. Valerie's got the perfect Thanksgiving meal with Sweet and Salty Pepitas, Acorn Squash and Baby Bitter Greens with Sherry Shallot Vinaigrette Dressing, and a perfectly Deep-Fried Turkey topped with gravy. For dessert, there's homemade Pumpkin Pie served with a tangy Cinnamon Buttermilk Whipped Cream.