Welcome, pastry enthusiasts! Get ready to embark on a delectable journey through the heart of French baking. This itinerary will guide you through an unforgettable week of hands-on pastry classes, delightful food tours, and free time to explore the enchanting city of Paris.
Day 1: Arrival and Welcome Dinner
Settle into your Parisian haven. Unpack your bags, freshen up after your travels, and get ready for a delightful introduction to your fellow pastry-loving companions. Enjoy a delicious first group dinner at one of our favorite Parisian restaurants. This is the perfect opportunity to bond with your fellow baking enthusiasts and our talented pastry chef, Jennifer Pogmore, and discuss the exciting week ahead! If you arrive early in the morning, take advantage of the free time to explore the city before dinner.
Day 2: French Pastry Essentials
Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, helping you adjust to the Parisian time zone. Afterward, head to the baking studio for your first immersive baking class, where you’ll delve into the world of French pastry essentials. Learn the secrets of crème pâtissière, lemon curd, and tart dough, which you’ll use throughout the week to create stunning tarte au citron and chocolate éclairs. After a fulfilling day of baking, indulge in a delightful afternoon tea at one of Paris’ grand hotels, savoring exquisite pastries and treats. The rest of the day is yours to explore the charming streets of Paris.
A Taste of Parisian Pastry Traditions
Day 3: Classical French Pastry Tour & Tart Baking
Today, you’ll experience the magic of traditional French pastry. Join Jennifer on a morning pastry tour, where you’ll visit some of her favorite pâtisseries. Sample an array of irresistible French pastries, each a testament to the artistry and tradition of French baking. Enjoy a traditional Breton crepe lunch at Breizh Cafe, one of Paris’ iconic creperies. After lunch, return to the baking studio to complete your tart creations. Roll out your lemon and fruit tarts, bake them to perfection, and decorate them with new piping techniques. The evening is yours to enjoy at your leisure.
Day 4: Mastering Choux Pastry
Learn the art of choux pastry, a versatile base for iconic French treats. Spend the morning mastering this technique, creating classic profiteroles, éclairs, and gougères. You’ll even learn to fill the iconic chocolate éclair with a rich and decadent chocolate pastry cream. After a light lunch at the baking studio, the rest of the day is yours to wander through the beautiful streets of Paris.
Champagne in the Countryside
Day 5: Champagne Tour and Tasting
Trade the city bustle for the serene countryside. Enjoy a delightful day of Champagne exploration. Travel to the heart of Champagne country, visit three esteemed Champagne houses, and indulge in exquisite tastings. Discover the history of this renowned beverage, learn about the production process, and enjoy a three-course lunch paired with the finest Champagnes. After a memorable day, return to Paris via train, where you can relax and enjoy the rest of the evening.
Parisian Exploration
Day 6: Free Day in Paris
After a week of baking and touring, it’s time to explore Paris at your own pace. Visit iconic landmarks like the Versailles Palace, the Louvre Museum, or take a romantic stroll along the Seine River. Venture underground to the Catacombs, a fascinating glimpse into Parisian history. For those who can’t resist the lure of baking, Jennifer offers an optional macaron baking class, a chance to master the art of these iconic French treats.
Croissants and Free Time
Day 7: Croissant Baking and Free Morning
Enjoy a leisurely morning in Paris, soaking in the city’s atmosphere. In the evening, gather at the baking studio for a lesson in the art of croissant baking. Learn the secrets of creating buttery, flaky croissants and pain au chocolat under Jennifer’s expert guidance. After class, enjoy a delicious dinner of freshly-made croissant sandwiches paired with fresh salads.
Farewell to Paris
Day 8: Farewell Fraisier & Final Meal
Your last full day in Paris! Begin with a trip to a charming local market to handpick fresh ingredients for your final baking class: the Fraisier. Learn the art of this delightful strawberry and cream cake. Enjoy some free time in the afternoon to see the sights you haven’t yet explored. As the sun sets, gather for a final group dinner at a Parisian hot spot, savoring delicious food, drinks, and the warmth of new friendships forged over a shared love of pastry.
Farewell and Bon Voyage! This unforgettable journey has not only immersed you in the world of French pastry but has also created memories that will last a lifetime. Leave Paris with new skills, a newfound appreciation for French pastry, and a collection of cherished memories to savor long after you return home.
