Master Classic French Breads: Baguettes and Brioche with Baker Bettie in Chicago

Read the full experience

Chicago, Illinois—beyond skyscrapers and deep-dish pizza—hosts a unique, hands-on baking adventure for those seeking to up their culinary game. The "French Breads: Baguettes and Brioche with Baker Bettie" workshop offers an immersive 3-hour experience led by head chef Kristin "Baker Bettie" Hoffman. This workshop isn’t just a class; it’s a deep dive into the art of traditional French bread making, held in a setting where flour, heat, and patience come together to create iconic loaves. The workshop focuses on two of France’s most beloved breads: baguettes, known for their crisp crust and airy interior, and brioche, the buttery, rich bread that’s a staple in both sweet and savory dishes. Baker Bettie shares not only her knowledge but advanced baking techniques like pre-fermentation and stone baking, essential for achieving authentic textures and flavors. This methodical attention to technique means attendees come away with skills that extend well beyond the workshop. What sets this class apart in Chicago’s bustling culinary scene is its hands-on approach combined with expert guidance from a revered local leader in bread crafting. Baker Bettie’s reputation in the city’s artisanal baking community lends both credibility and warmth. Whether you’re an aspiring baker or simply passionate about bread, you experience the full process—from balancing dough hydration to mastering shaping techniques—while using tools and ovens designed to replicate French bakery standards. Culturally, French bread holds a storied place worldwide. Chicago’s diverse food landscape acts as the perfect backdrop to connect with those traditions while embracing a contemporary, urban vibe. This workshop not only builds baking skills but also offers a slice of French heritage within a metropolitan environment. Taking place in Chicago, this workshop is easily accessible from the city’s central neighborhoods, making it ideal for travelers and locals alike who want to invest a morning or afternoon in culinary craft. As bread is a universal comfort food, this class stands out by focusing on artisan techniques that transform everyday ingredients into culinary craftsmanship. If you’re searching for a unique indoor adventure blending creativity, tradition, and delicious reward, Baker Bettie’s French breads workshop delivers a flavorful journey well worth booking.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

moderate.

Duration

3 hours.

Fitness level

Basic standing endurance is required; no advanced physical fitness needed.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need prior baking experience?

No, this workshop is designed for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced bakers.

Will I get to take home the bread I make?

Yes, participants typically take home the breads they bake during the workshop.

Are ingredients provided?

Yes, all ingredients are supplied by the bakery for the workshop.

Is this workshop suitable for children?

Participants must be 16 years or older to attend.

What happens if I have dietary restrictions?

Please notify the organizers in advance so accommodations can be discussed.

Can I book this workshop as a private event?

You would need to contact Baker Bettie’s team directly to inquire about private bookings.

Local insights

Wildlife

Not applicable indoors

History

Bread making is a craft rooted in centuries of French tradition; this workshop captures those historic methods in a modern city setting.

Conservation

The bakery emphasizes sustainable sourcing of ingredients and minimizing waste through efficient kitchen practices.

About Bettie's Chicago

Bettie's Chicago is a hands-on bakery and cooking studio in Chicago led by head chef Kristin “Baker Bettie” Hoffman. The studio offers a wide range of classes, workshops, and take-and-bake options for home bakers, food lovers, and groups. Participants learn techniques for breads, pastries, pies, and savory dishes with a focus on practical skills, approachable recipes, and small class sizes that enable personalized instruction. Classes include introductions to bread baking, sourdough intensives, focaccia art, French breads, artisan pizza, homemade pasta, and seasonal favorites like pumpkin cinnamon rolls and apple cider donuts. Specialty workshops cover cookie pickups, cupcake and cake decorating, macaron making, and multi-day sourdough courses for intermediate bakers. Private events and corporate team-building sessions are also available by request. Bettie's Chicago emphasizes hands-on learning: students mix, knead, shape, and bake during sessions and often take finished products home. The studio highlights ingredient quality, clear step-by-step guidance, and reproducible recipes so attendees can recreate results at home. Classes specify age recommendations and duration, and many allow dietary accommodations or vegan-friendly options. The business is suitable for beginners through experienced bakers seeking focused technique work or creative culinary experiences. Reviews and event listings on reputable city guides and The Adventure Collective spotlight consistent class offerings and seasonal specialties. Booking information, class schedules, and pre-order pickup options are available through the studio’s online listings and partner platforms. Gift certificates, group discounts, and private lesson packages make Bettie's Chicago a flexible option for celebrations, team building, and hands-on culinary education across skill levels.

Base locationChicago, Illinois

Tours offered36+

Adventure tips

Bring an apron and hair tieProtect your clothes and keep hair out of the dough to maintain hygiene in the kitchen.

Arrive 10 minutes earlySettle in before the workshop begins to get the most out of the experience.

Take notes and ask questionsThe workshop is interactive—engage with Baker Bettie to deepen your understanding of bread techniques.

Wear comfortable shoesYou’ll be on your feet working with dough and ovens; supportive footwear helps keep you comfortable.

Recommended gear

Apron: Protects your clothing from flour and dough throughout the workshop.
Notebook and pen: Helpful for jotting down tips, recipes, and techniques during the session.
Closed-toe shoes: Protects your feet and provides comfort during standing periods.
Reusable water bottle: Keep hydrated while engaging in hands-on baking.