Eager to learn the secrets behind France’s renowned baking traditions? The "Paris: Behind the Scenes French Baking Experience" offers a chance to do just that. This hands-on class guides participants through the art of laminating dough, shaping baguettes, and crafting flaky croissants. With expert instruction and tastings of sweet and savory pastries, the experience promises to deepen one’s appreciation for French culinary culture. But the real question is – what techniques will you master during this delightful Parisian adventure?

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Key Points

A 2-hour English-language class that teaches participants the art of French baking, including laminating dough, shaping baguettes, and making croissants.
Limited to 8 participants for personalized attention from a French baking expert, who shares the histories and nuances of iconic French pastries.
Flexible cancellation policy and online booking with no upfront payment, making it an accessible experience for visitors to Paris.
Participants gain an appreciation for the complexities of bread flours, yeast, and sourdough, complemented by tastings of sweet and savory French pastries.
Not suitable for children under 5, with considerations for those with mobility issues due to the bakery’s location and lack of elevator access.

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Overview of the Experience

The Paris: Behind the Scenes French Baking Experience offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the art of French baking.

Explore the art of French baking with the Paris: Behind the Scenes French Baking Experience.

Priced from $103.59 per person, this 2-hour English-language class is limited to just 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention. The experience is likely to sell out, so booking early is advised.

During the hands-on class, guests will learn to laminate dough, shape baguettes, and make croissants under the guidance of a French baking expert.

Attendees will also enjoy tastings of sweet and savory French pastries while hearing the stories and histories behind these iconic treats.

Looking for more options in Paris? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Booking Information

Reservations for the Paris: Behind the Scenes French Baking Experience can be made online with no upfront payment, allowing guests to book their spot and pay later.

The experience has a flexible cancellation policy, offering free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Meeting points vary depending on the option booked, such as near the Notre Dame Cathedral or the Eiffel Tower.

With limited group sizes of up to 8 participants, this exclusive experience is likely to sell out, so guests are encouraged to check availability for desired start times.

Class Details

During the Paris: Behind the Scenes French Baking Experience, participants engage in a hands-on class where they receive guidance from a French baking expert.

They learn to laminate dough, shape baguettes, and make croissants. Throughout the class, they enjoy sweet and savory French flavors.

The expert shares stories and histories behind iconic French pastries, helping participants understand differences in bread flours, yeast, and sourdough.

With their newfound skills, participants leave the class with a deeper appreciation for the art of French baking.

Participant Information

Although the Paris: Behind the Scenes French Baking Experience isn’t suitable for children under 5 years old, kids are welcome to attend for free but won’t be able to participate in the hands-on baking activities due to safety concerns.

Participants must be prepared to stand for extended periods during the 2-hour class. Access to the bakery involves navigating 15 steps with no elevator, so those with mobility issues should take this into account.

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Customer Feedback

The Paris: Behind the Scenes French Baking Experience has garnered overwhelmingly positive reviews, with an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 209 customer evaluations.

Participants consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and engagement, with reviewers highlighting Candice and Jess as standouts.

The hands-on baking lessons have been described as fun and informative, providing an excellent value for the money.

Customers appreciate learning the stories and histories behind iconic French pastries, as well as understanding the nuances of bread flours, yeast, and sourdough.

There's plenty more to explore in Paris

The Art of Laminating Dough

One of the core techniques explored in the French Baking Experience is the art of laminating dough. Participants learn how to create the flaky, buttery layers that define classic French pastries like croissants and puff pastry.

The process involves repeatedly folding and rolling the dough, interspersed with chilling periods to keep the butter solid. This develops the intricate structure that sets these treats apart.

The repeated folding and chilling of the dough creates the intricate, flaky structure that defines classic French pastries.

Under the guidance of the expert instructor, bakers gain hands-on experience with this delicate technique, unraveling the mysteries behind the perfect croissant.

They leave with a newfound appreciation for the patience and precision required to master this essential French baking skill.

Shaping the Perfect Baguette

As participants move on from the intricate process of laminating dough, they explore the art of shaping the perfect baguette.

The instructor guides them through the technique, demonstrating how to properly divide and shape the dough. Participants learn to gently roll and stretch the dough, creating the iconic elongated form.

They then use their palms to roll and pivot the dough, building tension and achieving the classic baguette shape.

With focused attention and a light touch, each participant crafts their own artisanal baguette, ready to be baked to golden perfection.

Mastering the Flaky Croissant

With the precision of baguette shaping behind them, participants now turn their attention to mastering the delicate art of crafting flaky, buttery croissants.

Under the guidance of the expert baker, they learn the intricate lamination process that creates the signature layers. Kneading, rolling, and folding the dough, they discover the importance of temperature control and resting periods.

As the croissants bake, the class savors the aroma filling the bakery. Finally, they enjoy their freshly baked creations, marveling at the complexity achieved through careful technique.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take the Baked Goods Home With Me?

Unfortunately, participants won’t be able to take the baked goods home with them. The focus of the class is on the hands-on baking experience and learning, not producing items to take away.

Is the Class Suitable for Vegetarians/Vegans?

The baking class includes options for vegetarian participants. However, it may not be suitable for strict vegans as some recipes may contain dairy products. Dietary needs should be communicated to the instructor prior to the class.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment?

No special equipment is needed. The baking class provides all the necessary tools and ingredients. Participants just need to show up ready to learn and enjoy the hands-on French baking experience.

Can I Request a Dietary Accommodation?

Yes, you can request dietary accommodations. The baking class provides alternatives for vegetarian and gluten-free participants. Just be sure to inform the organizers of any dietary needs when booking your reservation.

Is There a Restroom On-Site During the Class?

Yes, there is a restroom on-site during the class. The bakery has a restroom available for participants to use throughout the 2-hour French baking experience.

The Sum Up

The "Paris: Behind the Scenes French Baking Experience" offers an immersive taste of French culinary traditions. Participants will learn essential baking techniques, from laminating dough to shaping baguettes and croissants, under the guidance of a French expert. With opportunities to savor sweet and savory pastries, this hands-on class promises to deepen one’s appreciation for the art of French baking.