Stephanie Faulisi
Secret Ingredient Cupcakery
Phone: 585-727-3898
Email: secretingredientcupcakery@gmail.com
Website: https://www.secretingredientcupcakery.com/
1191 Empire Blvd.
Webster, NY 14580
Where were you born and raised?
Rochester, NY
What was your introduction to cooking/baking?
I participated in Culinary class at East High School, and realized I was not an awesome cook. My Chef suggested I try baking, something that called for exact measurements and methods. I had so much fun, and had a passion for it, and from 16 years old I’ve never stopped.
Where and how did you train?
I graduated from Le Cordon Bleu in San Francisco with a Baking and Pastry Certificate
Have you always been a chef? If yes, describe your career path. If no, what else have you done?
I have been baking since I graduated College, starting at an ice cream shop in San Francisco. Since moving back to Rochester in 2011 I have been blessed with pastry opportunities in some amazing bakeries in Rochester until I was able to achieve my dream of owning my own cupcake shop in Webster.
If you own your own business(s), when did you open and what inspired you to go out on your own??
My whole entire career has been based around one goal, to own my own bakery. A dream I’ve had since I realized baking was my calling. In 2021 I was given the opportunity to take over Secret Ingredient Cupcakery, a bakery opened by my dear friend Rachel. When she moved, I took over, carrying her cupcake legacy. I have never been happier. Independently baking memories for weddings and parties is everything to me, and I’m so grateful to have achieved my dream.
Where do your recipes come from?
My cupcake recipe was passed down to me from the original owner of the bakery. She perfected this sweet treat and I love being the one to continue the deliciousness. When I bake, I like to take classic recipes and add some pizzaz, making them unique.
Is there a chef you admire the most? Who and why?
My favorite chef will always be Chef Jeff, my culinary teacher. He now owns The Magnet Fried Chicken in Penfield, and we still keep in touch. I had a time in high school where I struggled finding myself, and Chef Jeff helped me find my purpose. A passion I could succeed in, and guidance when I felt like I had none. Baking got me through tough days, and I have him to thank for that.
When you’re “off the clock” do you like preparing meals for friends and family or do you prefer someone else to do it?
I love to bake for friends! I am a terrible cook, so I always offer to bring the dessert!
You have a day to eat anything you want. What will your menu look like?
My favorite style of cuisine is Mexican, so my entire day would be filled with flautas and sopaipillas. Don’t forget the chorizo!
What is your favorite thing to bake?
My favorite dessert to bake is tiramisu. My mom has a recipe that just melts in your mouth, and making it always makes me think of her.
What are your best and worst skills?
My best skill is piping with buttercream. I love creating unique designs and pictures from frosting. My un mastered skilled would have to be fondant sculpting. I see so many talented artists make real life sculptures from sugar, and it’s a skill I envy!
Is there a handy baking utensil that you absolutely can’t do without?
I am obsessed with my silicone spatula. From cupcakes to Krispy treats, I use it for everything I bake. I could not live without it!
Besides baking, what are your other hobbies?
When I’m not baking, I’m watching horror movies. They are my favorite! I am a home body, bit have tons of fun snuggling my pups and playing board games with my husband and friends.
Please inlcude any other things you’d like to share.
I am a passionate pastry chef who loves what I do, and I’m so excited to be a part of this competition!
