Baking Fundamentals Camp Ages 11-16

THIS CAMP CANNOT ACCOMODATE GLUTEN RESTRICTIONS! 

Embark on a delightful journey through the fundamentals of baking at our specially designed 5-day hands-on cooking camp for children ages 11-16. Each day campers will dive into the world of baking, discovering the joy and artistry behind creating mouthwatering treats. From mastering the fluffiness of muffins to the intricacy of pies, this camp is a perfect blend of learning and fun.

Under the guidance of experienced instructors, young bakers will explore various baking techniques, including the muffin method, creaming, working with yeast, and more. They'll measure, mix, and decorate, turning simple ingredients into impressive creations. Alongside baking, campers will learn valuable kitchen skills, such as accurate measuring, flavor pairing, and the science behind baking, fostering a sense of accomplishment and independence. Join us for a week filled with new friendships, creativity, and the sweet smell of success, as we turn the kitchen into a playground of imagination and discovery.

• Classes are five consecutive days (Mon-Fri). Each class is two hours.
• Each student cooks individually at their own cooktop/prep station. No group cooking here. 
• Every student will learn every aspect, not just bits and pieces. Hands-on learning.
• Each day campers will enjoy what they've baked and have leftovers to take home!

Muffin Madness Monday
Menu: Blueberry Muffins, Cranberry and Pecan Muffins, Vanilla Mini Cakes (for the next day)
Techniques: Muffin Method, Creaming Method, Fruit Reduction

Kick off camp with a day dedicated to mastering muffins and mini cakes! Campers will learn the muffin method to create scrumptious blueberry and cranberry pecan muffins, discovering the secret to moist, fluffy treats. They'll also learn the creaming method as they prepare the batter for vanilla mini cakes, setting the stage for tomorrow's decorating fun. A special segment on fruit reduction will show them how to intensify flavors, making their baked goods truly stand out.

Terrific Tuesday with Biscuits and Frosting
Menu: Red Lobster-style Biscuits, Buttercream Frosting, and Ganache
Techniques: Measuring Day, Biscuit Method, Frosting and Decorating

Day two is all about precision and creativity! Campers will learn the importance of accurate measuring to ensure baking success. They'll use the biscuit method to whip up fluffy, buttery biscuits reminiscent of the famous Red Lobster treats. The highlight of the day will be learning to make silky buttercream frosting and rich ganache, followed by a session on decorating their vanilla mini cakes from day one with their newly made frostings.

Wonderful Wednesday with Pretzels and Cheese
Menu: Pretzels with Cheddar Cheese Dip
Techniques: Yeast Bread and Flavoring

Midweek brings the magic of yeast to life! Campers will dive into the world of yeast bread, learning the process of making soft, twisty pretzels. They'll explore how yeast works and the satisfaction of dough rising. To complement their pretzels, a delicious cheddar cheese dip will be on the menu, introducing them to the art of flavoring and creating the perfect pairing.

Thrilling Thursday with Popovers and Jam
Menu: Popovers with Flavored Butter and Strawberry Jam
Techniques: Pie Dough (for the next day), Butter Flavoring, and Jam Making

On Thursday, campers will be amazed as they watch simple ingredients puff up into golden, airy popovers. They'll learn the secrets behind making perfect popovers, along with how to flavor butter for an extra touch of deliciousness. The day will also feature jam-making, where they'll cook up their own strawberry jam, learning the magic of transforming fresh fruit into a spreadable delight. Plus, they'll start preparing pie dough for Friday's pie extravaganza.

Fantastic Friday with Pies
Menu: Lemon Meringue Pie and Freeform Apple Pie
Techniques: Pie Baking, Custard, Fruit Filling, and Meringue

The grand finale of the camp will have campers applying all they've learned to create two types of pies: a zesty lemon meringue pie with a silky custard filling topped with fluffy meringue, and a rustic freeform apple pie that showcases their skill in making fruit fillings. They'll roll out their pie dough, fill, and bake their creations, celebrating the culmination of a week filled with baking, learning, and fun.

THIS CAMP CANNOT ACCOMODATE GLUTEN RESTRICTIONS!

Our recipes use common ingredients that may or may not be specified in the menu, including various fruits and vegetables, nuts, meats, spices, wheat flours, etc. If you have a food allergy or dietary restriction we should be aware of, please call or email before attending the class. We may or may not be able to accommodate.

A minimum 14-day notice via email (info@thelearningkitchen.com) is required for class cancellations. If you're child is unable to attend a class, you are encouraged to send someone in his or her place. We cannot make exceptions.

Got questions? Call, email, or check our FAQ page.

Classes are two hours, but duration is approximate and may vary by 10-15 minutes; it's best to plan accordingly.

Kids classes are for ages 11-13

Parents/guardians may stay for the duration of the class, but are encouraged to sit back, relax, and let the students work independently.