Is this class suitable for beginners?

Yes, this demonstration is designed for all skill levels, including those new to high-altitude baking.

Can I bring my own recipe for help?

Absolutely! Participants are encouraged to bring baking challenges for Chef MaryDawn to help troubleshoot.

Will I be baking hands-on during the class?

This is primarily a demonstration class where you’ll observe techniques, though you will sample finished products.

Are ingredients provided?

Yes, all ingredients needed for the demonstrations and tastings are supplied by Santa Fe School of Cooking.

Is parking available nearby?

Yes, there are several convenient public parking options within walking distance of the cooking school.

Can I purchase baking supplies or books from Chef MaryDawn?

The school offers select cookbooks and supplies related to the class; ask at reception after your session.

High Altitude Baking Demo in Santa Fe, NM

Experience the art and science of baking like never before with the High Altitude Baking demonstration class led by Chef MaryDawn Wright in Santa Fe, New Mexico. This unique two-hour session is designed specifically to help home bakers conquer the challenges of high-altitude environments. Santa Fe’s elevation dramatically affects how ingredients react, but this class breaks down the science behind each ingredient—flour, sugar, leavening agents, and fats—so you bake with confidence no matter where you live. Beyond the science, you'll sample delicious cake recipes transformed for altitude success and learn to prepare caramel and custard with expert techniques. Chef MaryDawn also encourages participants to bring their own baking dilemmas for personalized troubleshooting. Whether you’ve struggled with flaky pastries or dense cakes at altitude, this class provides practical tips to elevate your skills. Hosted by the Santa Fe School of Cooking, this intimate, interactive experience is perfect for passionate bakers eager to expand their culinary knowledge and savor the joy of successful baking. Bring your curiosity, your baking questions, and leave equipped with techniques that work on every mountain shelf.

About Santa Fe School of Cooking

Santa Fe School of Cooking is a culinary education and event company based in Santa Fe, New Mexico. The school offers a diverse schedule of hands-on and demonstration cooking classes, themed dinners, and collaborative musical dining events. Classes range from technique-focused demonstrations to hands-on sessions that teach traditional New Mexican, Mexican, and border-region recipes. Students learn dishes such as chilaquiles, corn pudding, cream of green chile soup, carne tampiqueña, tacos al pastor, and salsa macha, and explore ingredients like achiote, lime, apricot, eggplant, and green chile.

The school partners with local venues and cultural organizations to present unique dinner concerts and festival collaborations. Featured events include jazz evenings at Dave’s Jazz Bistro with performers such as Delbert Anderson, Tawanda Suessbrich-Joaquim with the John Rangel Trio, Robby Beasley, Dr. Chris Buckholz, Eddie Daniels, and Lee Musiker. The program has also collaborated with the Santa Fe Indian Market and the New Mexico Jazz Festival, pairing live music and poetry with menus inspired by Native culinary traditions.

Instruction is led by experienced chefs and culinary professionals who design curated menus for holiday dinners, healthy seasonal menus, vegetarian offerings, and culturally rooted tasting menus. The school emphasizes authentic regional flavors, practical techniques, and convivial dining experiences. Visitors and students can expect clear instruction, thoughtfully sourced recipes, and opportunities to taste and take home new skills. Santa Fe School of Cooking focuses on culinary education, cultural connection, and memorable food-centered events. Classes accommodate home cooks and visiting travelers seeking authentic regional cooking experiences and techniques.