Do I need prior baking experience?

No prior experience is needed; the class is designed for all skill levels.

Are there accommodations for food allergies?

Yes, gluten-free and dairy-free options are available upon request.

What is included in the $99 price?

The price covers all ingredients, instruction, and the pastries you bake to take home.

How big are the class groups?

Groups are limited to 12 participants to ensure personalized instruction.

Can I bring my own recipe?

This class focuses on mastering the instructor’s choux pastry recipes to build foundational skills.

Where is the class held?

At 70 Essex Way, Essex Junction, Vermont, within a local culinary space.

Master the Art of Cream Puffs in Vermont’s Hands-On Baking Class | Events | Food Tour

Essex Junction, Vermont, may be best known for its charming New England character, but here, culinary adventure awaits at 70 Essex Way with an extraordinary baking experience. The Cream Puffs class offers a hands-on dive into the world of classic French choux pastry, perfect for food enthusiasts eager to expand their kitchen repertoire or simply enjoy a delicious outing. This intimate session, limited to 12 participants, invites you to master pâte à choux—the light dough that transforms into airy éclairs and golden cream puffs. Whether you’re a beginner or want to finesse your skills, this class handles all skill levels with expert guidance.

Cream puffs and éclairs are beloved by pastry lovers for their delicate crunch and creamy interiors. The workshop begins by mixing and whipping the dough to a precise texture so when baked, the shells puff perfectly. As the pastries bake to a crisp, golden finish, you get insider tips on dough preparation, piping techniques, and oven time—all crucial for that flawless rise.

Once your choux pastries cool, it’s time to elevate them with fillings and finishes. You'll get hands-on experience filling your creations with luxurious, silky pastry cream, learning how to achieve the ideal texture and flavor balance. The final touch is a glossy chocolate ganache glaze, a silky crown that adds rich sweetness and visual appeal.

This class is hosted in a comfortable space within Essex Junction, making it a convenient stop for travelers staying in or near Burlington, Vermont’s principal city. Essex Junction itself is a gateway to the Green Mountains’ outdoor offerings, so pairing a baking day with hiking or lake activities offers a balanced Vermont adventure.

What makes this experience unique is its blend of education and indulgence. It’s not just about baking; it’s a chance to connect with local food culture, enjoy a friendly group setting, and take home irresistible treats made by your own hands. Gluten-free and dairy-free options are thoughtfully offered to accommodate dietary needs, ensuring anyone can join the fun.

At $99, it’s an affordable and memorable way to add a culinary highlight to your Vermont journey. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or simply craving something sweetly satisfying for yourself, this workshop will sharpen your pastry skills and leave you with delicious memories of Essex Junction’s inviting artisan scene.

About Cook Academy at The Essex

Cook Academy at The Essex is a culinary education program located at the Essex Resort and Spa in Essex Junction, Vermont.

The academy offers hands-on cooking and baking classes for adults, families, and youth, focusing on seasonal ingredients, local Vermont products, and classic international techniques. Experienced chef instructors lead intimate sessions that teach practical skills, recipe techniques, and plating tips in a professional teaching kitchen. Classes include single-session workshops such as paella, crepes, maple-focused dishes, and themed seasonal events, as well as multi-week youth programs like the Jr. Chef Baking Series for middle school students. Many sessions incorporate Vermont craft beer, Jasper Hill cheeses, and other regional producers to highlight local flavors. The academy provides all necessary ingredients, tools, and printed recipes so participants can recreate dishes at home. Classes are suitable for beginners through experienced home cooks, and the hands-on format emphasizes skill-building, tasting, and teamwork. Cook Academy at The Essex partners with the resort's culinary team and event staff to run timed, reservation-based classes that align with resort offerings and special events. The program is ideal for visitors to Essex Junction and local residents seeking food-focused experiences, culinary gifts, or family activities. Safety, professional instruction, and a welcoming atmosphere are central to the academy's approach, creating memorable culinary experiences that showcase Vermont ingredients and practical techniques. Classes are scheduled throughout the year with seasonal rotations and holiday workshops. Advance reservations are recommended, and participants receive printed recipes and guidance for reproducing dishes at home confidently and continuing education.