Photo: Sang An

Christina Tosi
Christina Tosi's Banana Cake

What's your favorite secret ingredient?
Homemade brittles! They're easy to make—you can use your favorite nut or seed—and they add the best texture to cookies and cake fillings (hazelnut crunch is in the banana cake!). They're also a great snack on their own.

What's one tip you would give someone making your cake?
Don't take yourself too seriously! Listen to music while you bake, alter the recipe/fillings to your taste. Have fun with it.

What was your favorite birthday cake growing up? And today?
Funfetti cake now and forever!

What three things are always in your fridge?
Cheese, ketchup, and ice cream.

Next: Elizabeth Prueitt's favorite secret ingredient...