Do I need any prior baking experience?

No prior experience is needed; the workshop is designed for beginners and walks you step-by-step through sourdough baking.

Is the workshop suitable for vegans?

Yes, this workshop features naturally vegan recipes and ingredients throughout the experience.

What do I take home from the workshop?

Participants take home a freshly baked loaf, a sourdough starter kit, and essential baking tools.

How long does the workshop last?

The workshop runs approximately 3 to 4 hours, including hands-on baking and lunch.

Are children allowed?

The workshop accepts participants aged 16 and older to ensure safety and focus.

Can I maintain my sourdough starter after the class?

Yes, detailed care instructions are provided to keep your starter active and healthy at home.

Master the Art of Sourdough Baking with Baker Bettie in Chicago | Food Tour | Workshop

Chicago’s vibrant culinary scene extends beyond its iconic deep-dish pizza and hot dogs—here, a rising star in artisanal bread baking invites you into the world of sourdough. "Sourdough for Beginners with Baker Bettie" offers an immersive workshop led by Kristin “Baker Bettie” Hoffman, a passionate baker and educator dedicated to transforming novices into confident sourdough artisans. Held in the heart of Chicago, this class goes beyond basic bread making; it’s a hands-on experience that teaches the foundations of sourdough fermentation, starter maintenance, and recipe adaptation for varying skill levels and tastes. This workshop stands out not only because of Baker Bettie’s deep expertise but also because of its welcoming, naturally vegan approach, making it accessible for those seeking plant-based lifestyles. Participants learn the science behind creating and sustaining a living starter culture—the essential fermenting agent unique to sourdough bread. The session includes detailed guidance on mixing, kneading, and proofing, ensuring each attendee leaves with the confidence to replicate these techniques at home. A highlight of the experience is the fresh sourdough pizza served for lunch, baked on-site, exemplifying the versatility of sourdough beyond just loaf bread. Attendees take home their own freshly baked loaf and a starter kit with essential baking tools, extending the journey beyond the classroom. Baker Bettie’s workshop is a rare opportunity to engage with a specialty of the local food culture in a city celebrated for its diversity and innovation. It offers a practical skill set with sustainable and flavorful results, all under the guidance of one of Chicago’s foremost artisan bread authorities. Comprehensive, friendly, and creative, the workshop is a perfect fit for those who want to connect with food in a deeper, hands-on way while exploring Chicago’s expanding world of artisanal cuisine. Whether you're a curious home cook or a baking enthusiast, this workshop captures the art and science of sourdough baking in an approachable format that nurtures creativity and mastery. Chicago’s rich food heritage finds a fresh expression here—through the tangy, textured loaves crafted in Baker Bettie’s class. Come with enthusiasm and leave with skills that will elevate your kitchen, taste buds, and understanding of fermented breads.

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

3–4 hours.

Fitness level

No special fitness needed; suitable for all ages 16+ with general mobility.

Wildlife

Pigeons commonly found around Chicago’s parks where the workshop is located
Squirrel sightings in nearby green spaces during breaks

History

Chicago has a rich immigrant baking heritage that informs its artisanal bread culture, with sourdough gaining popularity as the city’s food scene diversifies.

Conservation

Baker Bettie emphasizes sustainable ingredients and waste reduction by encouraging home baking and natural fermentation without preservatives.

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+

Specialtyland-adventures

StewardshipLeave No Trace