Original subtitles

♪ Oh, yeah, yeah ♪

♪ Everybody, everybody Always blames it On Christmas ♪

♪ This is because A Christmas tradition... ♪

Oh, look at the Daddy's babies, oh.

♪ Go ahead and blame it on ♪

♪ I said, Everybody, everybody ♪

♪ Always blames it On Christmas ♪

♪ This is because... ♪

Oh, yeah.

Ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh!

And there you go, sweeties.

My vegan, sugar-free peppermint cupcakes, yes!

Come on down to Philadelphia Christmas mart

and get you one, okay?

Right here at my Sabon's dessert truck.

[on radio] This is Layne Perkins WZZ Philadelphia.

The All-Starr Christmas Bake War show

is casting for local bakers

to compete for a $50,000 prize.

Got your chocolate covered croissant.

There you go, there you go.

[Layne on radio] The winner will be announced

in three weeks on Christmas Eve.

[alarm beeps]

Oh my God, I'm late. I got to pick up Willow.

[Layne on radio] I will be back on the 4 o'clock hour with more details.

Why are you being so quiet this afternoon?

Look, I'm sorry for being late, honey.

But the peppermint cupcakes were a big hit.

-What's wrong, honey? -I'm fine, Mom.

You're the one that's been up all night

stressing about the new holiday dessert menu.

Well, since you brought up desserts.

I did make your favorite vegan red velvet cupcakes

with gluten free buttercream frosting.

-Thanks, Mom. -Mmm-hmm, you can share them with your friends.

But I want you to make sure you check your levels before you have one, okay?

[sighs]

[Layne on radio] The deadlin to enter Felix Starr's

dessert competition show is in 48 hours.

-Hey, is that Auntie Layne? -Hmm.

[Layne on radio] ...which o Philly's finest bakers will win this $50,000 prize

You should enter the competition.

[chuckles]

TV competitions are not for me.

[slow song playing on radio]

But you could win $50,000,

and buy a new truck,

since this one's always breaking down.

Ah, ah, ah, ah, you didn't hear that.

Sticking with you till the wheels fall off.

Didn't the wheel fall off last week?

No, there was a hubcap on the turnpike, thank you.

Just promise you'll think about the baking contest.

Namaste, Willow.

[laughs]

-Here? -[Layne] No, higher.

-Here? -Perfect, perfect.

Okay, sign looks good, cousin.

Thanks, Layne.

I hope it brings up more foot traffic.

That's what I'm doing here, Julian.

The station booked me on the radio

to promote this new dessert competition show,

grand prize, $50,000.

But Sophie Broussard would never do a cooking competition.

She doesn't even have a TV.

I wasn't talking about your mother, I was talking about you.

Ch... Ha-ha. Are you okay?

Are you sick?

-Nope. -You can do it.

-No, thank you. -Merci.

Would you like some fresh coffee with your pastries?

Uh, no, thanks, I'll just grab some by the office.

[speaks French] Young man.

That swill they serve on every corner is not coffee.

The French and Italians know

that coffee needs to be properly prepared and savored.

It'll only take 15 minutes.

I'm sorry, I really have to go.

Hmm.

[Julian] 15 minutes for coffee?

No candy before the engagement party.

What would Cheryl say?

Aunt Sophie, my fiance would say

-she loves me, candy and all. -[Julian] Hmm.

And as for fiancee's...

Mmm-mmm, don't do that.

What? Can't a mother asked her son

if he called the young lady from the church?

Is that the girl from the hip-hop handbell choir?

Yes.

You and Pastor Johnson need to stop with the holy hookups.

I'm good.

Who doesn't like handbells?

-[singsong] Me, me, me, me, me, me. -[Layne chuckles]

[telephone rings]

[Sophie] Bonjour.

Your Mama is a piece of work.

Cooking competition?

-Felix Starr? Absolutely not. -No, you didn't.

I am a certified pastry chef trained in Paris.

Not some baking bozo who makes cakes

for social media shaped like Elvis.

And there you have it, ladies and gentlemen.

No dessert competition for the Broussards.

The producer should have known

that it was a long shot to have someone

of Aunt Sophie's stature do the show.

First black female pastry artist for the White House,

author of five bestselling cookbooks

and an award-winning baker from Paris to Philly?

They had no chance.

But they can get another Broussard.

Why do you think they'd want me?

You are the next generation of the Broussard baking dynasty.

Pssh.

You've been working with your mother for your entire career,

and you have your own ideas about what you want the Broussard brand to be.

True.

So did you show your mom your business plan?

Yes.

No.

You know how she is.

She's not going to go for it.

And we need investors.

Exposure on All-Starr Bake Wars will help guarantee investors.

-I don't know about all that, but I do know about this. -What?

I'm going to stick to baking and I want you to try this.

[Layne] Mmm, okay.

Julian, this is exquisite.

My mom would probably want to make

something more traditional for your wedding cake.

That's why you need your own platform to carry on your family name.

Baking one cake doesn't mean I'm ready for a TV competition.

-You put your foot in this cake, cuz. -Thank you.

You need to step out of your mother's comfort zone.

Do you have any samples for a sister?

-No, this is it. -What?

-I saw them back there. -No.

[Felix] Chris, we're on the ground in Philadelphia looking for talent.

But the pickings are woefully slim.

Look, Felix, I just want to make sure

you understand that in the eyes of the network,

your last show tanked.

So as your agent, I'm telling you,

you need to make sure that All-Starr Bake Wars is a hit

or your contract with the network won't be renewed.

Did they really say they wouldn't renew my contract?

Networks don't keep around show hosts that don't pull i ratings or social media buzz

Sponsors love buzz and networks love sponsors.

What does this mean for the Felix Starr frozen food contract you were negotiating?

No show, no frozen food line

[Brianna] Thank you.

Perfect.

[Brianna] Hey, ladies.

Just in time for my banana pudding.

Ooh, delish.

-We'll take two. -It's good, it's good, it's good.

Hey, Carlos, can you come over and take over for me?

I've been a Dessert Network host for over 10 years.

How can they even think of letting Felix go?

Boss, I know this baking competition's going to be a hit.

Um, in fact, I have some ideas.

Cricket, if I wanted ideas from my production assistant,

I would have asked you for them.

Just look at this, boss.

This is Kandi Kakes.

#BattyBaker.

She's a picture post baker better known for sexy selfies of

her cakes, rather than making actual cakes.

Boss, she has a huge following on social media.

[scoffs] Social media buzz doesn't make one baker.

I think Kandi Kakes can get us trending.

Just watch.

What I've done is I've made this so...

[sighs] I don't know, Cricket.

Do you really think she can go from social media to television?

Kandi posted this video this morning

and it already has over 100,000 views.

And she's got over 750,000 followers and that's way more than you.

Sorry. I can have Kandi come in for an interview.

I think she's our star.

First of all, I'm the star.

Okay.

Go ahead, call this Kandi girl.

We might just have found what the network's been looking for.

Copy that, boss.

-Bam! -Ooh!

What? Good job.

It's beautiful. Oh, I love it.

Well, isn't it time for you to find a new boo?

The only consistent relationship I got

is with Carlos and my hand mixer.

Well, at least the hand mixer vibrates

-on a cold, lonely night. -You know what?

I don't know what's in this pudding but...

Seriously, though, you're the bootstrap baker

who started her own vegan dessert truck when Willow was diagnosed with diabetes.

And that's the kind of backstory fans would love on All-Starr Bake Wars.

Oh, you know, me and Willow heard that earlier on the radio.

You should sign up, Brianna.

I'm trying to fill Christmas orders, I don't have time for that.

Didn't you tell us last month that Willow applied

to that gifted school and the tuition is crazy?

Yeah, what about Damon?

Well, Damon has been on "tour" for the last couple of months,

so we really haven't heard from him.

Bri, forget your ex-hubby.

He became Black history when you're divorced him three years ago.

-True. -My wifey-to-be is right.

You should do this show for yourself and for Willow.

I don't know y'all.

[Layne] Geez.

It was just as hard to convince you

as it was to talk to Julian this morning.

You talked to Julian about the competition?

Yes, he was completely turned off by the idea as you are.

Even when we were in baking school,

that boy was so full of himself.

Hmm. Was there something going on between you and Julian?

I haven't seen him since graduation.

Well, I don't know why you both are being so stubborn.

Hello! It's a chance to win $50,000.

Shoot.

Makes me wish I didn't have to cover the show for the station

or I'd try to win my damn self.

-[Cheryl] Hmm, just one problem, babe. -What?

The only thing you cook is a pop tart.

-Oh. -[Layne laughs]

-Touche. -Struggling to boil water.

[indistinct]

So where's your Christmas list?

Mom, do you still think I'm writing a Christmas list to Santa?

No, I don't.

But I do believe you want something going under that Christmas tree.

Sure, but I don't want anything you can buy at a store.

What do you want?

An acceptance letter to Fallbrook.

Maybe I'll get a scholarship.

They would be lucky to have you.

And if you get accepted,

then we'll just have to figure it out.

The only other thing I want is to see Dad.

Do you think he'll come to Philly for Christmas?

I sure do hope so, sunshine.

Get yourself ready.

Don't forget to check your levels.

[keypad beeping]

[line rings]

Damon, it's Bri.

I've been trying to call you.

It's about Willow.

Call me back, please.

[cellphone pinging]

[cellphone ringing]

-Hello. -[Cricket] Hi, is this Julian Broussard?

-Yes. -This is Cricket Paige from All-Starr Bake Wars.

We want to invite you to audition for the show this afternoon.

Could you bring a dessert for Felix Starr to sample?

What? Yes.

-Absolutely. -Great. See you then.

Okay, I'm there.

Ooh!

[wondering] Ooh.

[worrying] Ooh. Sophie.

You'll need these for my fans this afternoon.

You know, they'll be lined up in droves for this competition.

Well, speaking of headshots.

I've got Julian Broussard coming to the audition.

-Hey, Ma, I just got this great phone call-- -Julian.

I wasn't able to knead the dough this morning, so you'll have to.

-You didn't make the dough? -No.

-Get a move on, we open in an hour. -All right.

But you always make the dough.

He works with her at their family bakery in Chestnut Hill.

She passed my call.

Super rude, by the way.

But last night, her son applied.

You know Sophie.

Everyone knows Sophie.

When I was first starting out, she judged my quiche Lorraine

at the Bay Area Food Festival.

Called it pedestrian.

Like something from the freezer section of the supermarket.

This is Layne Perkins, reporting from the Dessert Network Studios,

where Felix Starr, host of the popular television show All-Starr Bake Wars,

is auditioning potential contestants for his upcoming holiday competition.

Hmm.

Tastes like a pharmacy.

I'm just going to...

Well, doesn't this look nice?

Let's just get a...

Hmm, me like me like, thank you.

So where's Brianna Davison?

I don't know, boss. I confirmed the time with her yesterday.

-[footsteps approaching] -[Felix] Then I guess she's eliminated.

I'm Brianna Davison.

I'm sorry.

But you're too late.

What? No, no, no, no.

Come on.

[sighs]

Mom, what are you doing?

Hmm.

You can do this.

Felix, listen, my truck broke down.

Oh!

[all exclaiming]

[gasps]

You got to be kidding me.

My cake.

My tart.

-Brianna Davison? -Julian Broussard.

What are you doing here? You ruined my tart.

"Ruined?"

-French tart. Predictable. -French fruit tart.

Okay, well, given your pastry school skills, I probably helped.

Well, I'm sure you're vegan, no butter, no eggs,

no taste dry cake wouldn't have impressed anybody today.

Well, I guess they let anybody in this competition, huh?

Well, obviously not. From what I just heard, you're not in it.

And from what I remember, when the heat was turned up in the kitchen,

you didn't stick around.

You two know each other?

-Yeah, kind of. -A little.

I mean, kind of, just...

Went to pastry school.

So you're school rivals.

When's the last time you saw each other?

-I haven't seen him since-- -Graduation.

-Since I graduated first in class. -What?

At graduation.

Well, you'll have plenty of spare time to get reacquainted

since you're both disqualified.

-Both? -What?

Both?

You can't disqualify me.

I'm sorry, but you're both out.

[indistinct conversation]

[inaudible]

[Willow] Let them bake.

[all] Let them bake.

Let them bake.

Let them bake.

Let them bake.

-Let them bake. -Felix, she messed up my tart.

I didn't do anything wrong. You can't do that.

I can do anything I want.

I'm Felix Starr, it's my show.

Um, boss.

This is no surprise.

Bad blood between these two could make for good television.

You are absolutely right.

-I am not looking-- -Look at my dessert.

-It was a complete accident. -[Cricket] There you go.

Yeah, you always had two left feet.

Two desserts.

Please, take your places.

So what did you make, Brianna?

A vegan strawberry Shortcake.

Tch, something dry.

What did you make, Julian Broussard?

I made a classic French fruit tart.

Kandi Kakes, what did you prepare?

I made a pecan pie with fresh whipped cream.

Cannot believe you messed up my tart.

I can't believe you had the nerve to enter that tart.

I did you a favor. Thank me later.

[scoffs] Doing me a favor would mean not even entering this competition.

Well, I've sampled all the desserts.

Thank you for your submissions.

You're all dismissed.

Now that Felix Starr sampled the entries,

the final eight contestants will be posted online tomorrow morning.

You still got a shot, Mom.

I don't... I... Let's just go home.

Willow, honey.

Look, I probably didn't make it

so you don't have to keep checking the show's website.

Got to have faith, Mom.

Isn't that what you're always telling me?

Oh, so now you want to listen to me?

Mom, look.

Hey, everybody, my mom's going to be in Felix Starr's new dessert show.

[all cheering]

[Willow] Oh, my God. You actually got it.

Oh, my God. What?

There's you, Kandi Kakes and Julian Broussard.

[dismissively] Hmm.

Why are you sweating, Julian?

I'm not.

I'm okay, I just...

Show Julian who the better baker is once and for all.

Why are you so smart?

Well, I read that children can inherit their intelligence from their mothers.

Oh, well, at least I did something right.

But scientists also believe

there's a cluster of genes in the brain that determine human intelligence.

So I get no credit.

Got it.

I think you did the best you could.

[Brianna laughs]

[Julian] It's not ridiculous.

It's an amazing opportunity.

And it's great promotion for the bakery.

What about your work at the bakery?

We'll be done by Christmas Eve.

It only takes three weeks.

I promise you it will not interfere.

Julian, the Broussard name is associated with the finest in French pastries.

It's not some silly cookie decorating contest.

I've learned from the best and that's you.

Now it's time for me to take all that classic French training

and put my twist on it and show it to the world.

Look, I've made some great desserts

and I've tested them out with some of the customers

and let me tell you something, they like them.

See?

See?

-Julian. -Yes.

I know how talented you are.

But these desserts aren't keeping with the classic French techniques

our customers have come to expect at this bakery.

Mom, it's time to build, expand our legacy.

People like this.

Son, it's all right if you want to join this competition,

but we need to go with what we know works.

-Ah. -I love the star.

But we can skip some of Grandma Sadie's other holiday traditions.

Now, wait a minute.

I thought you love Christmas in New Orleans,

with parades and your favorite holiday king cake,

and a Reveillon dinner on Christmas Eve?

I do, Mom,

but it's a hard pass for me on that chicken and oyster gumbo pie.

Now that's a New Orleans tradition.

Your Grandma Sadie would roll over in her grave if she heard you say that.

Um, I was thinking, since we're not going to Nola this year,

maybe we can go with smoked turkey or a glazed ham instead.

Oh, despite your blasphemy against her beloved chicken,

I have

a surprise for you.

[hums] Bam!

What's this?

I don't know. Open it.

Oh, my gosh. Mom, I got in!

Yes!

Of course, you did, my brilliant baby.

They would have been foolish not to accept you.

-[door closes] -Hey, hey, hey, what's all the excitement?

I got into Fallbrook.

Yes!

[cheering]

[Layne] Oh, my goodness.

[Willow] Ooh, I got to call Maya.

-[Brianna] Mmm-hmm. -[Layne laughs]

Now we have two things to celebrate:

-Willow's acceptance. -Mmm-hmm.

And...

-Bake Wars. -Ah.

[laughs]

Yeah, yeah.

Ooh, but did you see that tuition into Fallbrook?

-That's the number for one year? -Uh-huh.

Oof, you have to sell hella desserts

and several vital organs on the dark web to come up with that number.

Yes, and they want the deposit by the end of the month.

It will break Willow's heart if she can't go to school

with the rest of the baby brainiacs.

[Layne] Hmm.

Well, I hate to bring up he who is forever and always dead to us,

but have you heard from Damon?

Still nothing.

And I am mad.

Willow has worked so hard to get into Fallbrook,

and now I got to find some way to pay for it by myself.

Hopefully, you hear from him soon.

But I have faith in you.

Well, schools don't take faith over checks.

Don't turn this into a pity party.

No, ma'am.

We're going to celebrate all the good news you got today.

Making the cut on Bake Wars

and Willow's acceptance.

-Cheers, sis. -Cheers.

But it's still a lot of money.

You guys find a place for the engagement party?

Hmm, Julian offered to host at his place.

[Brianna] Hmm.

[exhales loudly]

What is your problem with Julian?

Every time I mention my cousin's name for the last two years,

you act like I'm related to your high school bully.

What's the deal?

[sighs] Julian and I had a one night stand two years ago.

-Stop! I can't believe this! -Shh. Shh.

-Be quiet, Willow will hear you. -Girl, I--

Shh.

I just can't believe you did the horizontal hook-up with my cousin.

You never told me.

You ain't even right for that.

Well, it wasn't exactly the horizontal, it was more like the vertical.

Girl!

Ooh, you need to spill now, all the deets.

[moping] Well, it was a disaster.

That's why I didn't tell you.

We never spoke about it again,

and we've been avoiding each other around town.

[chuckling] That must have been some night.

It was the night before graduation.

Keep talking.

And first of all, I had no intentions on hooking up with Julian.

Now, don't get me wrong, the chemistry was there from the jump,

but we were so busy being competitive

and shooting for top of the class that nothing happened until...

This one night, we both drew the short straws for clean up after class dinner.

Juicy.

Well, after the cleanup, Julian felt like we deserved a dessert,

so he made creme brulee.

[snorts] Damn, girl!

You fell for the pastry play in the Himalayas line.

[in deep voice] "Let me make you some creme brulee." [laughs]

You want to hear the rest of the story or not?

Hey.

[laughing]

-Oh, almost forgot. -What?

Oh. Mmm-hmm.

The best part of the night? The creme brulee.

[Brianna] Aha.

[speaking in French]

Who can resist a man that speaks French?

Not you.

[both laugh]

-Hmm. -Mmm.

You smell so good.

Thank you.

[chuckles]

He always gets the girls with the French.

I know. He was sounding so good.

He could have been counting backwards

and I wouldn't have known the difference.

So y'all did it in the kitchen?

You going to keep asking questions,

you going to let me finish the story?

We should do that more often.

-Yes, we should. -Yes, we should.

[both laugh]

[Julian] Man, that was great.

-Yes, it was. -Mmm-hmm.

You handled that... Fire.

-Huh, I know I was. -No, no, no.

-No, fire, no, fire. -Oh, oh.

Oh, you left the torch on.

You distracted me.

I can't help it--

-[fire alarm blaring] -Oh, my God.

[groans] Oh, no.

Oh, no.

You better call the fire department.

[laughs]

Well, I'm glad to know you find humor

in the dumpster fire that is the worst hook-up of my life.

Then what happened?

I was mortified.

And the next morning, when the class rankings came out,

he was number one and I told him

that the only reason he won was because his last name was Broussard.

[softly] Ouch.

That must have cut Julian deep.

Yeah, we had a big fight about it and we never spoke again.

Hmm.

-[cellphone beeps] -Mmm.

Oh, look, it's the first promo for All-Starr Bake Wars, just dropped on social media.

Tarts, pies, cookies and cakes.

Oh, my.

Welcome to the All-Starr Christmas Bake War,

where it's baker versus baker

in a frosted fight to the finish.

Each contestant to face off

-in our Christmas baking battle. -Okay.

-From a classically trained French pastry chef. -You ruined my tart.

To a feisty food truck maven.

I can't believe you entered that tart.

Thank me later.

And a social media star.

As I've made this so...

The flour will fly in the fight to win $50,000.

[Brianna] What?

What have I gotten myself into? [groans]

Well.

May the best baker win,

and you let me know when you need the fire department on standby.

Get out.

-[sniffs] Smells kind of smoky-- -Right now.

Philadelphia is buzzing with pride

since the City of Brotherly Love

was chosen as the site for an epic baking battle.

Now let's meet the man behind the holiday magic, Dessert Network's Felix Starr.

[Felix] Thank you, Layne. Happy to be here.

Hi.

Would you mind helping me with my apron, please?

Uh, sure.

So hard sometimes.

-I know. These things are tricky. -[giggles]

You're good with your hands.

Uh, yeah, hope so.

-Uh, okay. -Thank you.

All right.

What is up, y'all?

It's your girl Kandi Kakes coming to you live

from the All-Starr Bake War competition.

Now make sure y'all tune in and watch your girl win.

Smooches.

You have a lot of followers?

[Kandi] Yes, sir.

Contestants, for your first challenge,

you'll be tasked with making the ultimate holiday cookie decoration

for the Christmas tree at your workstation.

Let the baking battle begin.

Cricket, start the clock.

-Julian. -Yeah?

-Give me some sugar. -What?

Give me some of your sugar.

[Julian] I don't think we're supposed to be sharing ingredients.

[Brianna] They obviously left my sugar out.

-Do you see what's go... -Okay, okay. Zip it.

-[Cricket] Boss. -Zip it.

You've already used yours, give me some.

-[indistinct] -Ah.

I know I'm not supposed to say anything but--

No, you're not supposed to say anything, ever.

[whispers] All right, all right, thank you.

-I-- -Just.

But did you see what happened?

Kandi put something--

Allow me to remind you that I expect silence.

30 seconds.

-[timer buzzes] -Time's up, bakers.

We'll just walk right past that.

Oh, that looks too nice to actually eat.

Well done.

Hmm.

Hmm, exquisite. Well done.

Well, that's how the cookie crumbles, isn't it?

Ooh, intriguing.

Not bad, not bad. Thank you.

That looks lovely.

[groans softly]

I don't think I've ever tasted a cookie

that makes me regret becoming a baker.

But she did finish.

[clears throat]

This looks wonderful.

Thank you. Thank you.

-[Felix] Mmm, very, very nice. -Thank you.

-Very nice. -Broussard bakery.

[both chuckle]

[Felix] This looks wonderful.

The winner of the first Bake Wars competition is Kandi Kakes.

[applause]

Okay.

[sighs] Congratulations, Kandi.

I tasted maybe two good cookies.

You sabotaged my cookies.

What?

You sabotaged my cookies.

I don't know what you're talking about.

My cookies taste like salt.

Maybe that's just you trying to do your vegan thing and it got out of hand.

-I don't know. -No.

What are you doing?

I asked you for sugar and you gave me salt.

You're the one who said we need to boost social media engagement.

-I didn't give you salt. -That's exactly what you did.

I gave you sugar.

-Look, this conversation is over, so-- -No, it's not.

Look, just go... Oh, oh.

-Seriously? -I'm so sorry.

That was an accident. I promise you.

-Julian! -I'm, I'm sorry.

[Brianna] This was totally on purpose.

Oh, my God.

Sorry.

[Brianna] Don't say nothing else to me.

We all have nothing else to talk about for the rest of this competition.

-Mom, wake up! -What?

-You've gone viral. -What? What?

-[Brianna] That's why. -[Julian] I'm cheating?

-[Brianna] Yes. -[Julian] Really?

-[Brianna] That's exactly what you're-- -[Julian] Okay, Brianna.

What do you mean viral?

[Brianna on video] No.

Broussards don't cheat. We don't need--

Oh, my God, I cannot believe Julian threw flour at me.

-[Julian] This conversation is over so-- -[Brianna] No, it's not.

Look, just go... Oh, oh.

-[Brianna] Jesus. -No, he didn't.

Huh?

Are you sure?

That's exactly what you did

Look, just go... Oh, oh.

-Seriously! -That was an accident.

I promise you.

[groaning] Oh, my goodness. I've embarrassed myself.

Ooh, and I've embarrassed you.

I'm in middle school.

Food fights happen on the regular in my life.

That doesn't make me feel any better.

God, Julian brings out the worst in me.

Well, people are rooting for you to win this competition.

Hmm? Really?

Look at the comments.

People want to know more about sugar-free and vegan desserts.

I can't believe it.

Time to accept your destiny.

Namaste, Mom.

Get. Get. Get out of here.

Felix, we haven't seen numbers like this on your show for ages.

-Behind the scenes footage on social media. -Stop that.

It's driving engagement.

Fans are also loving Kandi Kakes, where'd you find her?

-Oh, I actually- -Kandi's a gem.

I found her and knew immediately she'd be perfect.

Genius casting, Felix.

Keep this up and we'll be renewing your contract by Christmas.

[indistinct conversations]

[Julian laughs]

She did that on purpose.

We have history. You don't know about it.

-Look how many views-- -You--

[both clear throat]

-Hi, Auntie. -[chuckles nervously]

What are you two hiding?

Nothing. Absolutely nothing.

-You look great today. -Mom.

Uh, Mom, I can explain.

It's just my job.

Is this what you mean by bringing attention to the family business?

Things got a little out of hand, but it won't happen again.

Well, see that it doesn't before you completely destroy the Broussard reputation.

I'll be back in a while.

Where are you going?

I've got some errands to run.

In the middle of the day?

I'll be back in a few hours.

Au revoir.

What's that about?

Crawford Park Hospital, please.

[Layne] Thank you for everything

and for hosting engagement party at your place.

Can we bring anything?

No, no, I got it covered.

You know I love Cheryl.

She's an amazing woman with the patience of Job to put up with you.

Very funny.

So are you bringing a date to the engagement party next week?

-A date? Like who? -Mmm-hmm.

What about Brianna?

Brianna? You saw the video.

That woman does not like me.

Well, she told me what happened

between the two of you in pastry school.

Mmm-hmm, doing the nasty in the kitchen.

Did she also tell you that she almost burned down

the entire school doing the nasty in the kitchen?

She told me things got hot and heavy between the two of you.

Really? A fire joke?

Don't you have a TV j...

Radio... What?

What do you do again?

All I'm saying is that there seems to be some sparks

that can be ignited between the two of you.

Get out of here.

[laughing] I couldn't resist.

Clean up.

[doorbell rings]

Hey, you're early.

Well, hello, to you too.

Brought a dessert.

I need to finish it before the rest of the guests arrive.

Okay, you didn't need to do that.

I already made dessert.

Well, I figured I'd bring something that people would actually want to eat.

[mock laughing]

Very funny.

Uh-huh, your mom's got a nice spot.

Don't do that. This is my crib.

[laughing]

Okay.

-Let me take your coat. -All right.

You smell so good.

Thank you.

Hmm, let me put this over here.

I also came early because I wanted to apologize.

Wait a minute.

The Brianna Davison wants to apologize to me?

Don't make this harder than it already is.

Okay.

My daughter Willow. showed me the video of us

and it turns out you didn't actually throw flour at me.

-Ah, okay. -Mmm-hmm.

I'm sorry.

Okay.

I was hoping we could call a truce for the sake of Cheryl and Layne tonight.

Deal.

Agreed.

Oh, oh, wait a minute.

What is this?

It's my recipe box with some of my grandmother's favorites

and some of my new ideas.

Ah.

Shrimp and sausage gumbo.

-Would you stop? -And this is a peach cobbler.

-Give me that. -And this is-- [laughs]

This box is going to help me win Bake Wars.

You're going to need more than that little box to take me down.

Challenge accepted.

-Uh-huh. -Mmm-hmm.

Mmm-hmm. What's that?

This is my dulce de leche cake.

-Ah. -My secret recipe.

Hmm.

Can I use this spoon to finish?

Oh, sure, go ahead.

I'll supervise, in fact.

[chuckles softly]

-Well. -Mmm-hmm.

Watch and learn.

Just like old times.

Yeah.

[knocking on door]

[knocking on door]

[knocking on door]

[whispers] Get it together. Come on.

[Julian] So, Mom, I have someone I want you to meet.

-Hi. -Brianna, this is the Queen B,

-Sophie Broussard. -Hi.

Good to meet you.

Pleased to meet you, too.

Well, what have we here?

This is my vegan dulce de leche cake.

Mom, Brianna is a very talented vegan baker.

And where's your bakery?

I have a food truck called Sabon!

Wonderful.

-Julian. -Yes?

Didn't you make a dessert also?

Yes, Mom, but Brianna's cake is so much more festive than my creme brulee.

I've decided to let this be the dessert tonight.

I love your creme brulee.

Brianna, have you tried Julian's creme brulee?

-I-- -C'est magnifique.

Thankfully, you can never have too many desserts at a party.

[Julian] Mmm-hmm. We had a lot of creme brulee one time.

-[laughs nervously] -Just magnifique.

[laughing]

Now tell me about this cake.

Cousin.

Absolutely. Happy to do it.

Cheryl. Come in.

To Layne and Cheryl.

Cheers.

[indistinct conversations]

Where's the Hennessy?

[Julian] Cake, cake, cake, cake, cake, cake.

Cake, cake, cake, cake, cake, cake.

[Layne] Hey, look at that.

You can't tell me how much to take.

[Julian] So long as we can eat as much as we want and we don't gain weight.

[indistinct conversation]

[Layne] All right, go girl.

Thank you.

Thank you for this lovely dinner, Julian. It was the perfect night.

You're very welcome, cuz.

Thanks, sis.

-[cellphone pings] -That cake was divine.

Thank you.

It's a good thing you two patched things up tonight.

-Why? -Why's that?

[Layne] I just got an update for the next Bake Wars challenge,

and you and Julian are paired together.

-I already got an idea. -You've already got an idea.

You two will be great together.

Come on, I'll walk everyone out.

Today's challenge is for our teams

to put a funky twist on a holiday dessert trio.

The team that comes in last place will be eliminated.

Our contestants have two hours to shop

and two hours to bake,

and then, we'll see what they can do.

Bakers, let's go shopping.

[contestants] Ooh.

So what does the new wave of Broussard pastries look like?

Ah, I've been working on a new line of bourbon infused pastries.

Croissants with bourbon, pecan flavored glaze, what?

Mini cheesecake puffs and a bourbon caramel sauce and a fig.

And my favorite, bourbon toffee cake.

-Uh, okay. -Yes.

-I love that idea. -It's going to be banging.

It's like bourbon tasting, but with desserts.

Yes.

-Wait a minute. -What?

-Okay, that gives me an idea for the competition. -Okay.

Okay, when you said that, it made me think.

-Why don't we take your idea of whiskey tasting, right? -Okay.

And recreate southern desserts?

All right.

Classic southern desserts.

-It's good? -Yeah, that looks great.

You know what, they should be back any minute.

Let's get the crew back in, get the cameras in position, please.

-You're from New Orleans? -Born and raised.

Don't know nothing about Cash Money Records.

Taking over for the nine out in the 2009.

But then how did you get to Philly?

Well, classic romcom plot.

Girl meets boy at Mardi Gras and then girl follows boy to Philadelphia.

Hmm, so what happened?

Well, girl gets her heart broken when she realizes that

boy loves his music career and his life on the road more than he does her.

Oh, I'm sorry to hear that.

Well, I got Willow, made our 20s drama well worth it.

She's actually the inspiration behind my business.

Oh, how so?

Well, when she was seven, she was diagnosed with diabetes

and she was prescribed a very strict diet,

and I had to learn to prepare her meals completely different.

Is that why you're in the competition?

Well, that's one of the reasons, yeah.

Okay, so what's another reason?

Well, our rocket scientist got into Fallbrook.

And I got to figure out a way to pay some tuition.

I just want to give her the biggest runway, so she can soar.

You're a good mom.

Thank you.

Well, maybe Grandma Sadie can help us with the recipes.

-I hope so, but-- -Look, these desserts are going to be amazing.

-Well, we better win, or it's all on you. -Oh.

-Yeah, and Grandma Sadie. -Stop it.

[clock ticking]

-Okay, this is looking good. -Yeah, yeah.

I like your style, sir.

Ah, thank you, Miss Brianna.

Looks like Julian and Brianna have mended fences.

Mmm, mended fences don't make great TV.

[timer buzzes]

Time's up, bakers.

Dreadful.

And this

could break a window.

What do you have for us today, Kandi Kakes?

I have made a red velvet trio, it is sweet and sassy.

Like me.

The glaze is an unexpected yet refreshing surprise.

Nice touch.

[chuckling] Good luck beating that.

Well, we'll see.

What did #teamflourfeud come up with today?

[laughing] A trio full of bourbon-filled desserts.

I think we have a winner.

Brianna and Julian.

Boom! Yes.

-[screams] -That's what I'm talking about.

[Damon] Way to go, baby.

[Julian] Looks like you have a fan club.

-What? -Yeah, over there.

Oh, that's, that's Willow's father.

Hi, baby.

[laughs]

We came to surprise you. You killed it, Mom.

Thank you, baby.

Damon, what, um, what are you doing?

Bri, I heard your messages. I got off the tour as soon as I could.

Our beautiful daughter here thought you can do with the surprise.

Daddy's home for Christmas, baby.

[Willow] Surprise.

[Brianna grunts uncomfortably]

So happy we're all together.

[Willow] How was the tour, Dad?

It was great.

15 cities, 15 sold out shows.

Your dad's guitar always kept the crowd on their feet.

Will you teach me how to play?

You promised last time.

Promises. Promises.

Of course, we don't go back on the road until after Christmas.

By the time I leave to go back on tour,

you'll be ready to hit the road with me.

Thanks, Dad. I'm glad you're here.

Me too. Look, I'm sorry I couldn't call often.

When I finished the show, it would be too late to call then--

Then you'd be in school when I woke up.

It's okay, Dad.

Like that telescope I sent you?

Yes, I love it.

All right, young lady, homework.

Mom, do I have to?

Yeah, Mom, does she have to?

One of us has to be an adult.

Upstairs.

Speaking of, Damon, where are you staying?

Why can't Dad stay here with us?

Oh, sweetie, I'm sure Daddy's already made arrangements.

Actually, I haven't.

See, Mom? Dad can stay here with us.

I'll go make the guest bed.

You did that on purpose.

What do you mean?

Our daughter might not be hip to your manipulation, but you can't fool me.

Would be so bad if I stayed here with my two favorite girls?

Damon, please, don't even try it.

What are you doing here?

Got my agent to get me a gig out here in Philly

so I could spend Christmas with Willow and you.

I've been calling you for months.

And then, just, all of a sudden,

out of the blue, you show up here,

and get our daughter excited about you staying here?

Well, guess who has to pick up the pieces when you leave?

Got your messages, Bri.

That's another reason why I wanted to see you.

What's going on with this school?

It's the best school in the city.

But even with financial aid, I can't swing it by myself.

[whistles] Wow.

That's a hefty price tag.

You sure she can't stay in public school?

She's got her heart set on going to that school.

Okay, then we'll figure something out.

Thank you, Damon.

Now, about you staying here.

Look, I could stay at a hotel if you want.

But we both know that'd break Willow's heart.

Plus, staying here will help me save more money towards Willow's tuition.

Fine. But you're staying in the guest room.

[cellphone vibrating]

Hey, Layne.

Hey, sis, just coming from the gym, wanted to check up on you.

You didn't look too happy when you saw Damon at the competition.

Child, I'm happy Willow has her father here,

but you know he's always going to be on my naughty list.

I feel you.

Come meet me for a drink, you sound like you could use one.

I'll see you in a bit.

Sounds good.

All right, Pete, that's it for me.

Ooh, care to buy a baker a drink?

Hey, Kandi.

Ah.

Pete.

Whatever the lady wants.

Oh, okay, well, I will have the holiday sangria.

You know what? I'll have one too.

So, uh, you here by yourself?

-Not anymore. -[chuckles]

Shall we take a seat?

Okay, why not.

Ooh, here?

Ooh, okay, okay.

Drinks menu.

We'll start with these. Two champagne cocktails.

To the Bake Wars competitin and new friends.

Yeah, new friends.

Ooh, I see your partner had the same idea.

Huh?

Oh.

[chuckles]

So I was thinking, for the engagement--

Who are you waving at?

[laughs]

What brought you to the competition?

I mean, I'm a social media baker,

but, like, I want my own TV show.

Okay, Julian, Brianna, Kandi, Jack are left.

Obviously, we should pair Julian and Brianna together.

Yeah, I agree.

[cellphone pings and vibrates]

What's that?

Looks like we might have a love connection.

[Julian] Uh.

Guys.

Guys.

Hey, listen, we do not have the bourbon bread pudding. I'm sorry.

But we saw you make the bourbon bread pudding on Bake Wars.

Those desserts were just for the show.

I drove all the way from Glenside to try it.

Yeah, me too. I came all the way from Trenton.

Listen, people, we do not have any of the desserts you've seen on the show.

But we a wide assortment of delicious French pastries you'll love.

-[Julian] Yes. -Who can I help?

Maybe we should try to find Brianna's food truck.

Yeah, that's a good idea.

Yeah, call AAA, they'll know where she is.

What just happened?

They came to try some of the desserts

Brianna and I made on the TV show.

Bourbon bread pudding?

Sounds... [speaks French]

Well, it impressed the judge because we won that competition.

-[stutters] What is going on, Julian? -What?

Sounds like you're turning your back

on everything I taught you with this competition.

We have to keep up with the times.

There is nothing wrong with our menu.

I didn't say there was something wrong with the menu, I...

I'm just saying that I have a lot of ideas that I would like to try.

I sacrificed everything to build this for you.

Mom, you've done an amazing job.

You've built an amazing legacy, Sophie Broussard.

And now, I just want to build on that.

I want to talk to companies about starting a line of Broussard baked goods

in stores all across the country.

And I'm pretty sure the exposure of this TV show will help me do that.

I'm just looking toward the future.

[Sophie sighs]

Mom, you okay?

-I'm fine. -Are you sure?

-Hey. -Good morning, Layne.

How are you doing, my dear?

I'm good, Aunt Soph, I'm good.

Not as good as our Julian.

And what's that supposed to mean?

What is a Kandi Kakes?

Uh, she's one of the contestants on the show.

Well, according to Felix Starr's caption, you two are, "baking buddies."

That's a lie.

She's just a contestant on the show, nothing more.

You see? This is why I didn't want you to do this silly show.

[speaks French]

What? Mom, I'm not... I don't mean to embarrass you.

Really, there's nothing going on.

Ooh.

Layne, what are you doing?

Don't blame me.

You were the one that went out with Miss Kandi Kakes last night.

We just happened to be in the same place at the same time.

-Really? -Really.

Well, I think I'm picking up on some chemistry between you and Brianna.

-Brianna? -Mmm-hmm.

Neither one of you are over that botched one night stand.

I'm over it. Pssh. Tch.

Telling me I'm not over it. I've, I've been over it.

Okay. Sure.

Last time I saw Brianna,

she really had her hands full when she was leaving the competition.

I think she's busy.

Damon? Damon's her ex-husband.

There's nothing going on there.

So you think I should talk to her, huh?

I think you guys need to clear the air before the last two challenges.

All right.

What was the whole Kandi Kakes about?

-I'm pushing you in the right direction. -You're trying to give my mom

a heart attack.

-Don't worry about that. -Kandi Kake?

-Love you. Mmm-hmm. -No more free samples for you.

[Julian] Oh, come on, Philly.

-Julian. -Hi, ma.

Thought I took that key back.

I made copies.

I was hungry.

Ah, coq au vin, my favorite.

You used to love it when I made this for you as a kid.

I'll go get plates.

Sit down, Julian.

We need to talk.

Okay.

What's up?

Even though we don't always agree,

I hope you know I'm proud of you, Julian.

Oh, Mom, I'm proud of you, too.

And I know it hasn't always been easy at the bakery,

and my ideas are a bit old-fashioned.

Hey, we've had over 30 years of success at the bakery

and that's because of your vision.

[sighs]

Ma, what's going on?

I've been diagnosed with a neurological disorder

that affects the nerves in my hands.

That's why I was rushing out in the middle of the day.

I was seeing a specialist.

Why didn't you tell me?

I would've gone with you.

I wasn't willing to face the fact

that I would soon no longer be able to do the thing that I love.

But, today, the doctor confirmed the diagnosis.

Okay, what did he say?

They gave me medication to deal with the tightness and discomfort.

But it's going to progress.

I'm sorry, Ma.

Actually, it's me that's sorry.

What are you sorry about?

When I think about no longer having the bakery in my life every day,

I realize

I don't have anyone to share my life with.

And I don't want you to be the same way.

What are you talking about?

Everyone thought that I was crazy

when I left my post as pastry chef

at the White House to move to Paris,

study at Le Cordon Bleu, but it was the best decision.

I met your father.

A handsome writer who swept me off my feet.

Then I got you.

Wish I would've gotten to know him better.

When your father died, I threw myself into the bakery.

I didn't have time to fall in love again.

I was so busy raising you and building a world class bakery.

But there has to be more.

Someone to share your life with.

You gave me a passion, that's priceless.

That's love.

And the only thing we need to do together

is worry about the future of the Broussard brand.

I'm glad you're here.

I've really been wanting to show you this.

Just take a look.

This is amazing, Julian.

Uh-huh.

I should've listened to you sooner.

[laughs]

I launched this bakery.

I got stuck in my ways.

Whoa.

Did you just admit you were stuck in your ways?

Stuck, but not stupid.

I know we have to evolve with the future.

[sighs] But your passion can't be just about pastry.

What does that mean?

I have a lot of passions outside of pastries.

Listen to me, Julian.

You cannot make the same mistakes that I made.

To devote your entire life to work.

What about that vegan girl.

Brielle.

-Hmm, Brianna. -Brianna.

She's just a contestant on the show.

Maybe you could be more.

[executive] Well, your numbe were strong at the start of the show,

they're tapering off.

And the social media buzz is also going down.

So what are you saying?

Boost viewership and social engagement,

or we may not have another show for you.

Do you have any insight to what viewers are liking about the show?

There's been a lot of intere in Brianna, Julian, and Kand

What if we increased the show prize by offering the winning baker

a spot as Felix's co-host for his next show on network?

[executive] I love that idea

I'm glad you like my idea.

Cricket and I were discussing this earlier.

Let's get this announced ASA

[knocking on door]

Come in.

Hi, yeah, I'm sorry, I couldn't help but overhear that conversation.

But I think I have a way to help you keep your show

and me win this competition.

Would you excuse us, Cricket?

Uh, we have to discuss tonight's competition.

She can't see it.

You can leave the notes with me.

-Um-- -You're dismissed.

-[Cricket] We still-- -No, no, no, no, no.

Shoo.

I think we can both help each other get what we want.

What do you mean, Kandi?

Well, you need the show to succeed,

and I need to win this competition to get my TV career started.

So you want to be my co-star?

[laughs] No.

I want to be a TV star, not a food show host.

But if I win, I get an agent, I move to Hollywood.

And I keep my show.

Exactly.

Let's go over the next challenge and make sure you get the right ingredients.

For this Bake Wars challen,

you will make holiday treats to sell at the holiday toy drive.

But you must use the ingredients under your box.

And there's a twist.

In addition to the $50,000 prize,

the winner of the All-Starr Bake War

will get the opportunity to be the co-host of my new show.

Oh. Ooh.

Let the baking battle begin.

[clock ticking]

What's up, y'all?

Don't forget to come down to the food drive for Kandi and a kiss.

-Oh, sorry. -Oh, sorry, my bad.

Uh.

I was thinking, maybe later, we'd go grab a bite to eat.

Oh, really? What you thinking?

My favorite spot, you know, to celebrate my victory tonight.

Oh, your victory? Okay.

Well, I hope whatever restaurant you choose

has champagne to celebrate my victory.

-Your Victory. -My victory.

-We'll see. -Okay.

What's up, sugar babies?

It's your girl Kandi Kakes coming to you live

from the Philadelphia Christmas festival.

Come one come all.

-[Brianna] Vegan truffles. -What are you selling?

Peppermint flavored macarons.

-You're Willow. -Yeah, I am.

You know, your mom told me you have a pretty fancy telescope.

If you love stargazing,

you should go to the Nightingale Green on Christmas Eve

and watch the Winter Circle stars.

It's pretty amazing. I go every year.

Thanks. I'll check it out.

Hey, take one to your mom.

Thanks.

[Brianna] Vegan chocolate truffles, guys.

No dairy.

Okay.

Hey, Bri. How's it going?

Hey.

Trying to find more customers to buy my vegan chocolate truffles but...

Not having any luck.

-Chocolate truffles, huh? -Yeah.

Peppermint flavored macarons.

It is the perfect holiday twist to a French classic.

You know what, I have an idea.

Willow, honey, come on, let's give your mom a hand.

Just like we practiced, ready? One, two, three...

[singing "We Wish You a Merry Christmas"]

♪ We wish you A merry Christmas ♪

♪ We wish you A merry Christmas ♪

Vegan chocolate covered truffles, guys. They're so good.

I promise you will love them.

[indistinct]

Vegan chocolate truffles, for sale guys.

Ah, the best, yes.

Try them out. Just $1.

♪ We wish you A merry Christmas ♪

♪ We wish you A merry Christmas ♪

Vegan treats, guys. There you go.

Time's up, contestants.

It looks like we have a clear winner.

Congratulations,

Kandi Kakes.

[cheering]

Second place goes to

Brianna.

Yeah.

And third

to Julian.

Boom, yeah. Yo.

The three of them will face-off in the final round

to be held tomorrow on Christmas Eve.

Jack, you're eliminated.

[mild applause]

Hey, Mom, you made it.

Yes, and I'm glad I did.

I'm so proud of you, son.

Oh, thank you, Mom.

You took something old and made it new.

Le macaron c'est magnifique

You need to put these on the menu.

Really?

I'm sure some of your new fans will be coming by tomorrow looking for them.

Absolutely.

You're the best.

-Thank you, baby. -Oh, wow.

[both laugh]

Okay, finish packing it up, stack the plates, paper between them, okay?

-Okay. -Great.

[chuckles] Oh, no.

I hope you're not coming over here to gloat.

I mean, although I didn't win,

technically, I still beat you.

What is that saying? Second place is the first loser.

Whatever, mister, you still owe me dinner.

Got to go somewhere to celebrate my win.

Okay.

-I got the perfect place. -All right.

Okay.

Matter of fact,

we can go now.

It's crazy how I pass this way all the time

and I've never stopped to do this.

-Really? -Never.

-All right, let me celebrate you. -Okay.

To Bake Wars.

-Yes! -And the second place, finish.

You know what, way to ruin it.

But this is the spot, right? You like it?

Yeah.

And I know this isn't champagne like I promised you,

but beer goes way better with Philly cheese steaks.

So wait a minute, let me get this straight.

Cheesesteaks and beer at an ice skating rink is your favorite dinner.

Yeah, I mean, come on.

Look, we have live entertainment

with all the skaters skating around.

-[Brianna] Yeah. -You never know who's going to fall.

[both laugh]

And the best cheesesteaks in the city.

-We're going to just see about that. -Okay.

Mmm, wow.

-See? I told you. -That's good.

-It's amazing, right? -Okay, that's good.

We'll make a Philly girl out of you yet.

-We'll see about that. -[chuckles]

-I think it's about time to see what you got. -Ooh.

Let's put this down and let's join in the fun.

Oh, my goodness.

-Ready? -All right.

A one and a two and a...

[both grunting]

[laughs]

All right.

-[Brianna] Oh, my goodness. -Ooh.

[Brianna] Oh.

What is up with Kandi Kakes winning every competition?

-Yeah, something tricky about that. -Something is going on.

-[Brianna] Ooh. -[Julian laughing]

-[Brianna] You better not laugh. -I'm not laughing.

-[screaming] -[laughing]

Oh, my God.

I got you.

Whoa.

I thought we should head in.

Yeah, yeah, we should, yeah.

-[Julian] You did a great job. -Look, I did better than I thought I would.

[Julian] That's the first time I didn't fall.

-Really? -Yeah, I admit that.

-Oh, my gosh. -That was fun.

-It was. It was. -See, I told you.

-Scary, but fun. -But fun.

Well, I have a second favorite spot I want to take you to next time.

-Really? -Yeah.

-Here you are, Mom. -Hey.

-Hey. -Daddy and I are waiting for you to start game night.

-Okay, all right. -Oh, okay.

[both clear throat awkwardly]

-I really had a nice time. -So did I.

-Okay. -Okay.

Right, okay.

[door closes]

Like she had a sensor or something.

Wow.

Hey, hey, hey, you f...

[slow instrumental music playing]

Ah, do it again.

[Damon] Morning.

[Brianna] Morning.

Anything under the tree for me?

Sure your daughter got you something.

Someone woke up in a Scroogy mood.

Must be nerves.

Hey, you have to admit we made a great team yesterday.

Heh.

Thanks for helping to drive more customers, but we are not a team.

Where's Willow?

Said she's getting her new bike ready for its inaugural ride to school.

Just couldn't wait for Christmas, huh?

Can't a father spoil his daughter?

She doesn't need things, Damon, she needs your time.

I know.

I'm going to do better.

You know you're an amazing woman, Brianna.

I mean, look at all you've done to take care of our daughter.

[Brianna] You left me no choice.

Bri.

I want a second chance.

Second chance at what, Damon?

Second chance with us.

No.

It's over. Done.

You shouldn't even be staying here.

Willow wanting me to stay here.

[Damon] Don't we owe her another chance?

[Brianna] Willow is not a reason for us to get together.

She's the main reason we need to stay apart.

Brianna, how could you say that?

-You know, I love you. -Okay.

It took a while for me to rebuild after you left.

And I'm just getting to a place where I'm okay.

The only thing I need from you is your half of the tuition for Fallbrook.

That's it.

-It's like that? -Yeah, it's like that.

-Maybe I should just leave. -Maybe you should.

For our final challenge,

our bakers must decorate a holiday cake

that represents what Christmas means to them.

They have one hour.

Let the decorating begin.

Oh. [groans]

-You okay? Are you okay? -Oh, Lord. Ooh.

-What? What? Are you okay? -[moans]

Let me see. Oh, no, no, no. Let me see, okay?

-[moans] -Okay, it'll be okay.

Take your hand off, take your hand off.

Just take your hand off for a second.

Oh, yeah, it's cut really deep.

We got to get her to a hospital.

Should we call an ambulance?

No, I don't think we have time.

We can take my motorcycle.

We should take my car. We can all go.

Damon, you have to get Willow after school.

Brianna, if you leave, you'll be disqualified.

-Why? -You can't disqualify her. She needs medical attention.

I can.

And if you both leave, Kandi Kakes wins the competition.

Well, then, congratulations to Kandi Kakes.

Julian, no, you can stay and win this.

Don't be silly, it's just a competition. Let's go.

Felix, can't we just postpone the final challenge?

It's an emergency.

No way.

[loudly] If they leave, they're both disqualified.

And if you leave, you're fired.

You can't fire me.

-I quit. -[thuds]

Oh, and by the way,

they will sell tickets to my exit interview with corporate.

[sighs]

-Hey. -Mom.

-Thanks for taking Brianna to the hospital, man. -Absolutely.

-How is she? -Mmm.

-Hey, y'all. -Hey.

-[Brianna] Thank you. -No problem.

-Thanks, Layne. -[Layne] Enjoy, enjoy.

[Julian] Hey, cuz.

Yeah, we were in and out. No traffic.

Bri, I'm glad the doctor was able to see you so quickly.

[Brianna] Yeah, it would have sucked

to have been stuck in the hospital on Christmas Eve.

-[Damon] Can I take a look? -Yeah.

-Oh, my goodness. -Yeah.

You'll still be able to bake with that?

Doctor said I should be good in a few weeks, so...

-[softly] I'm going to go. -[Damon] Good.

-[Damon] It hurt? -[Brianna] Bad.

Yeah, I could imagine, it looked deep.

[Brianna] Very.

You okay, babe?

I'll be just fine.

I heard you and Dad fighting earlier about me.

Willow, honey, that doesn't have anything to do with you.

Your dad and I aren't together anymore,

but we still love you very much.

It's all my fault.

No, no.

The divorce wasn't your fault, honey.

Don't worry about me and your moms.

-We may fuss at each other but we both love you so much. -So much.

-[door closes] -And we'll always be family.

Always.

-Where's Julian? -Oh, he had some place to be.

I'm going to leave now, too.

-[Brianna] Okay. -I'll see you later?

-[Brianna] All right. -Bye.

I didn't even get to thank him properly.

After the night we had,

I think we could also use a treat.

[sighs] Merry Christmas, Brianna.

What?

You didn't have to do this.

[Damon] Yeah, I did.

Oh, my gosh.

It's more than enough for the tuition for Fallbrook!

Oh, my goodness.

How?

Called my booking agent last night

and had him wire me an advance for the second-half of the tour.

Told him I wouldn't head on the road next month without it.

Thanks, Dad.

Thank you for being an amazing mother to our daughter.

We're going to get this co-parenting thing right.

Yes, we are.

Now, shouldn't you get going?

What are you talking about?

You need to go thank your boyfriend, Julian.

Julian is not my boyfriend.

By the way he was looking at you tonight

and the fact that he dropped out of

a $50,000 baking competition to help you,

yeah, I'll say that man got some feelings for you.

I agree with Dad.

Ah. Willow.

I'll stay with Willow while you go thank Julian properly.

But first,

-you might need this. -Oh, my God.

[chuckles]

I don't even know where he went tonight, so...

Oh, I remember.

He told me about watching the stars at Nightingale Green on Christmas Eve.

Okay, no excuses now, Bri.

[sighs]

All right, well.

Okay,

I got to make one stop but, um, love you all.

Wow.

Some weather, huh?

-Hey. -Hey.

What are you doing here?

Mind if I join you?

No, I don't mind.

I didn't know you were into stargazing.

Well, Willow said I shouldn't miss it.

Oh, Willow, I did tell her I was coming today.

[laughs]

But, unfortunately, the weather didn't hold out so...

Yeah. No stars.

Now I see why you come here.

-It's beautiful. -It sure is.

How's your finger?

Um, messed up pretty bad.

So how come you're not home with Willow and Damon?

Julian, there's nothing going on between me and Damon.

-Hmm. -In fact, he's the reason I'm here.

I want to be here with you.

And I'm wanted to give you a Christmas gift.

A Christmas gift?

What is this?

Open it.

So I know you want to sell Broussard pastries outside of bakery.

So to help you get started,

I pitched your idea of selling your desserts

to the owner of One City Republic supermarket,

and she thinks it's a wonderful idea.

So she wants to talk to you about supplying all 10 locations

with Broussard branded desserts.

[chuckles] Are you playing?

I wouldn't play with nothing as serious as desserts.

-I don't know what to say. -Julian, you deserve this.

You gave up your opportunity in the competition

that would have helped launch your business.

No one's ever done anything like this for me before.

I have another gift for you.

Another gift?

Merry Christmas, Julian.

Merry Christmas, Brianna.

Come on.

[Julian] What is this?

Oh, it's just the cake that would've won the competition.

How is this the cake that would've won the competition

-if it's not my cake? -[scoffs]

[laughs]

It's beautiful, though.

But tell me, what makes it special?

Well, I've always associated baking with family,

and the connection I felt growing up,

cooking with my grandmother and then Willow and now Sabon.

Uh-huh.

Wait a minute.

-Is this the white chocolate opera cake? -It is.

-Mmm. -I'm branching out.

I found one of your mother's recipes online.

You know, put my little kick to it,

switched up the ingredients, made it vegan, and it is delicious.

-Uh-huh. -[Sophie] I'll be the judge of that.

Mmm. [laughs]

-Light. -Mmm-hmm.

-Rich. -What?

We need to sell this at the bakery.

Seriously?

Julian, you need to add some vegan options to your business plan.

-[doorbell ringing] -Are you feeling well?

Okay.

I mean, Brianna's cakes and our bourbon dessert trio,

sounds like the beginning of a very tasty partnership.

Oh, uh, sorry to interrupt, um.

It's good to see you two together.

I guess I should have seen that coming.

Well, it's good that you guys are both here,

it saves me a trip from going to your house, Brianna.

What's going on?

Well, the network fired Felix.

Thank God.

Yeah, someone pretty influential called the network

and blasted Felix for the way he reacted when you had to go to the hospital.

Who would have done that?

Mom, you didn't.

-You did? -I can't believe it.

[Sophie] C'est la vie.

I never forget a face and I never forget a pedestrian quiche.

Felix had it coming.

-[doorbell rings] -Your mom's a pastry gangster.

Mmm-hmm, French connection.

I also informed the network that Kandi was using store bought...

-Hi. Come on in. -[Cricket] ...cakes and cookies

for the competition and that Felix knew.

Take a look.

Yeah.

[Brianna and Julian chuckle]

-[Julian] We said that. -[Brianna] I know.

Kandi Kakes.

Oh, so Damon's here to drop Willow off.

No, no, invite them in.

-I mean, it's Christmas. -Come in.

So if Kandi Kakes is out and Felix got fired,

what happens next?

Well, that's the best news of all.

The network said that you two are a huge hit with social media fans

and they want you to co-host a show together.

-What? -[all exclaiming and cheering]

And I will be the executive producer.

Oh, I don't know what to say.

Say yes, dear.

Do you really think we can host a TV show together?

I don't know.

But I know we're going to have fun figuring it out.

Come on.

As long as you know who's boss.

Yeah. Me.

[all] Ooh.

[all laughing]

Come on, guys, let's go over to the tree.

[Brianna] What did you get me?

[indistinct conversations]

Come on.

Merry Christmas, Mom.

Oh, my goodness.

This is for you two.

Oh, thank you.