Langhe: Pastry Class With the World’s Best Hazelnuts

Visitors to the picturesque Piedmont region of Italy have the unique opportunity to enjoy the art of Italian pastry-making. Through a hands-on class, participants can discover the secrets behind crafting classic Baci Di Dama and hazelnut cookies using the renowned Nocciola Piemonte IGP hazelnuts. Beyond just baking, this inclusive experience offers a chance to explore a hazelnut farm, learn about the cultivation process, and savor the flavors of freshly baked creations in a serene countryside setting. For those seeking to explore the rich culinary traditions of the Langhe region, this class promises an unforgettable taste of Italy.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Workshops And Classes In Italy.

Key Points

• Immersive 3-hour pastry class in the Langhe region, teaching participants to make classic Italian hazelnut treats like Baci Di Dama and hazelnut cookies.
• Exclusive tour of a small hazelnut farm, explaining the unique growing conditions and meticulous cultivation process that makes Nocciola Piemonte IGP the world’s finest hazelnuts.
• Hands-on experience in preparing the delicate hazelnut-based pastries, guided by expert instructors and using the region’s prized hazelnuts.
• Detailed exploration of hazelnut farming, including planting, pollination, harvesting, drying, and processing, enhancing the pastry-making experience.
• Included tasting of the freshly prepared Baci Di Dama and hazelnut cookies, allowing participants to savor the flavors of Piedmont’s pastry heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Event Details and Pricing

The pastry class in Langhe, Piedmont, Italy lasts 3 hours and costs €99 per person. It’s offered in both English and Italian to a small group of up to 10 participants.

The class includes a tour of a small farm in Alta Langa, where you will learn about the cultivation and production of the world-famous Nocciola Piemonte IGP (Piedmont hazelnut).

Participants will then have the opportunity to prepare Baci Di Dama and hazelnut cookies, followed by a tasting of the prepared products.

The class also includes a brief explanation of hazelnut cultivation, recipes of the prepared products, and one free hazelnut product.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and the class is wheelchair accessible.

Tour of Hazelnut Farm

Participants begin the pastry class with a tour of a small farm in Alta Langa, where they learn about the cultivation and production of the world-renowned Nocciola Piemonte IGP (Piedmont hazelnut).

The guide explains the unique growing conditions that make this region perfect for producing the finest hazelnuts. Guests discover the meticulous care and attention required to harvest these prized nuts.

They’re fascinated to see the intricate processes involved, from pruning the trees to sorting and drying the nuts. This in-depth look at hazelnut farming provides valuable context that enhances the hands-on pastry making to come.

Hands-on Pastry Preparation

After the tour, participants eagerly gather around the kitchen workspace to embark on the hands-on portion of the pastry class.

Under the guidance of the expert instructor, they learn to prepare two classic Italian hazelnut treats – Baci Di Dama and delightful hazelnut cookies.

With meticulous attention to detail, the group carefully measures and mixes the ingredients, forming the delicate dough and shaping the cookies.

The aroma of roasted hazelnuts fills the air as the pastries bake to perfection.

Once cooled, the participants proudly package their creations, excited to savor the flavors of the Piedmont region.

This hands-on experience provides a true taste of local Italian culinary traditions.

Hazelnut Cultivation and Production

A small family-owned farm in the rolling hills of Alta Langa showcases the meticulous cultivation process behind the renowned Nocciola Piemonte IGP, the world’s finest hazelnuts. Visitors learn about the careful selection of hazelnut varieties, the importance of soil composition, and the delicate pruning techniques that ensure an optimal yield.

Cultivation Stages	Key Details
Planting	Carefully spaced trees, optimal soil pH
Pollination	Wind-pollinated flowers, male and female trees
Harvesting	Hand-picked, mid-August to early September
Drying	Carefully controlled temperature and humidity
Processing	Shelling, grading, and roasting

This hands-on exploration provides a deeper appreciation for the dedication and expertise required to cultivate these prized nuts, which are the star ingredient in the class’s delectable pastries.

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Baci Di Dama and Cookies

Amidst the backdrop of the serene Alta Langa countryside, participants dive into the art of crafting two beloved Piedmontese pastries – the delicate Baci Di Dama and the irresistible hazelnut cookies.

Under the guidance of skilled instructors, they learn the intricate techniques required to create these iconic treats. Baci Di Dama, meaning ‘Lady’s Kisses,’ are delicate shortbread cookies sandwiched together with a rich hazelnut cream. Participants meticulously shape and bake these bite-sized delights.

The hazelnut cookies showcase the region’s prized Nocciola Piemonte IGP, with participants mixing, rolling, and shaping the dough to achieve the perfect texture and flavor.

The class culminates in a tasting session, allowing participants to savor the fruits of their labor and appreciate the timeless traditions of Piedmont’s pastry heritage.

Final Tasting of Products

Participants eagerly gather to savor the fruits of their labor, sampling the delectable Baci Di Dama and hazelnut cookies they had carefully crafted during the class. The serene farm setting provides the perfect backdrop as they indulge in the rich, buttery flavors and crumbly textures of their homemade creations. Guided by the instructor’s expertise, they discover the nuanced notes of the Nocciola Piemonte IGP hazelnuts, which lend their distinctive character to the pastries.

Taste	Texture	Aroma
Buttery	Crumbly	Nutty
Rich	Delicate	Fragrant
Decadent	Delightful	Captivating

The satisfied smiles and appreciative murmurs of the participants speak volumes about the success of their hands-on pastry experience.

Included in the Experience

Aside from the hands-on pastry preparation, the hazelnut workshop also includes a brief explanation of the cultivation and production of the renowned Nocciola Piemonte IGP hazelnuts.

Participants will learn about the unique growing conditions and processing methods that make these hazelnuts the best in the world. The workshop also provides the recipes for the Baci Di Dama and hazelnut cookies that are prepared during the class.

As a special bonus, each attendee will receive one free hazelnut product to take home. With the informative session and delicious takeaways, this pastry class offers an immersive experience celebrating the extraordinary Piedmont hazelnuts.

Cancellation and Accessibility

The workshop offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for participants.

Plus, the experience is wheelchair accessible, ensuring equal access for all interested individuals. This considerate approach to accessibility and cancellation policies demonstrates the organizers’ commitment to accommodating the needs of their guests.

Highlights of the cancellation and accessibility details include:

• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours prior to the event
• Wheelchair-friendly venue and facilities
• Inclusive environment for participants of all mobility levels
• Ease of mind for those with uncertain schedules
• Flexibility to adjust plans without penalty

These practical details contribute to a seamless and inclusive pastry workshop experience in the picturesque Langhe region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Hazelnut Products to the Class?

No, participants generally cannot bring their own hazelnut products to the pastry class. The class focuses on learning to prepare the local Nocciola Piemonte IGP hazelnuts, so bringing outside products would not align with the class activities and objectives.

Do Participants Need to Have Prior Pastry-Making Experience?

No, participants don’t need prior pastry-making experience. The class is designed for all skill levels, with hands-on guidance provided. The focus is on learning about Piedmont hazelnuts and preparing traditional Italian pastries in a small, interactive setting.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Accommodations Available?

The pastry class accommodates various dietary needs. Participants with dietary restrictions can be catered to upon request. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available for the prepared pastries and final tasting.

How Do I Get to the Farm Location From the City Center?

The farm is located about 30 minutes from the city center. Directions will be provided upon booking, and the tour includes transportation to and from the farm location. Participants can easily reach the farm via the provided shuttle service.

Can I Purchase Additional Hazelnut Products After the Class?

Yes, participants can purchase additional hazelnut products after the class. The event includes a free hazelnut product, and there may be opportunities to buy more of the specialty Nocciola Piemonte IGP hazelnuts and cookies prepared during the session.

Recap

Enjoy the rich culinary heritage of Italy’s Piedmont region.

Discover the art of pastry-making, explore a picturesque hazelnut farm, and craft classic Baci Di Dama and hazelnut cookies using the renowned Nocciola Piemonte IGP hazelnuts.

This inclusive experience offers a unique opportunity to savor the flavors of the Langhe region while learning about the unique cultivation process.

You can check availability for your dates here: