Oaxaca: Chocolate Workshop with Tasting

Imagine spending two hours in the heart of Oaxaca, learning how to craft artisanal chocolates that celebrate a history as deep as the flavors themselves. This Chocolate Workshop with Tasting offers a practical and tasty glimpse into the world of Mexican cacao, blending cultural insight with creative fun. Whether you’re a sweet tooth, a curious traveler, or someone eager to learn about local crafts, this experience offers a delightful mix of education and indulgence.

What makes this workshop particularly appealing is the chance to see and participate in traditional chocolate-making techniques—from roasting cocoa beans to molding your own chocolate figures. Plus, you’ll leave with tasty souvenirs. On the downside, you’ll need to organize your own transportation to get to the workshop location, which might be a consideration if you’re relying on public transit or taxis. Still, the small group size and authentic focus make it an experience well worth planning for.

This tour is ideal for food lovers, culture enthusiasts, or anyone interested in the craft behind Mexico’s beloved chocolate. It’s also perfect for travelers seeking a hands-on activity that’s both educational and flavorful, adding a meaningful layer to your Oaxaca visit.

Key Points

• Authentic Craftsmanship: Learn traditional chocolate-making techniques from roasting to molding.
• Tasty Creations: Make and take home your own chocolate bonbons with three different flavorful ganaches.
• Cultural Insight: Discover the origins of cocoa and how Mexican varieties differ from others worldwide.
• Sensory Experience: Roast cocoa, almonds, and cinnamon to bring out natural flavors, then grind them in authentic mills and metates.
• Small Group: Limited to 6 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Value for Money: The $103 price includes a comprehensive workshop, tasting, and your crafted chocolates, which makes for a memorable souvenir.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction to the Experience

If you’re in Oaxaca and love chocolate—okay, who doesn’t?—this Chocolate Workshop with Tasting offers a chance to get your hands dirty and your taste buds tingling. We appreciate how this experience combines culinary skills with cultural learning. It’s not just about tasting chocolate, but understanding its roots and the artistry behind it. The fact that you get to take home your own creations makes it stand out as a memorable keepsake.

Two things that immediately caught our attention were the in-depth process of roasting and grinding cocoa, and the opportunity to craft your own artisanal chocolate figures. These are real skills that give you a taste of traditional techniques still alive in Oaxaca. That said, since transportation isn’t included, you’ll want to factor in how to get to the workshop location—most reviews suggest it’s accessible, but planning ahead is wise.

This experience suits adventurous foodies, families with children (age permitting), and anyone curious about Mexican culture. If you’re after a quick sweet fix, it may not be for you, but if you’re eager for an engaging, hands-on activity rooted in local tradition, this workshop hits the spot.

What You’ll Do During the Workshop

1. Welcome and Introduction

The session kicks off with a warm welcome and a brief overview of the origins and varieties of cocoa found in Mexico. You’ll learn why Oaxaca is famous for its chocolate, from pre-Hispanic times to modern artisanal practices.

2. Roasting and Grinding

Next, your guide will show you how to roast cocoa, almonds, and cinnamon—key ingredients in Oaxacan chocolate. The roasting process enhances natural flavors and prepares the ingredients for grinding. Watching and participating in this step is particularly rewarding; you’ll see the transformation from raw ingredients to fragrant, toasted components.

Grinding is done in a traditional mill and in a metate—an old-style stone tool—giving you a real sense of the artisanal process. As one reviewer notes, “We loved the way they demonstrated grinding in a mill and a metate, which is so different from the commercial processes we’re used to.”

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3. Making Ganaches and Filling Chocolates

Once your ingredients are ground into a paste, you’ll learn how to create ganache fillings—three flavors of your choice. The instructor will guide you through tempering techniques and molding to produce individual chocolates. This part is especially fun because you’ll get to shape your own chocolates and see the transformation from molten chocolate to finished bonbons.

4. Artisanal Crafting and Chocolate Figures

The workshop emphasizes artisanal craftsmanship, allowing you to craft chocolate figures—an activity that appeals to both kids and adults alike. Watching these figures take shape in your hands can be surprisingly satisfying.

5. Tasting and Sampling

The workshop wraps up with a tasting of various chocolate beverages—from pre-Hispanic chocolate to milk chocolate and cocoa tea. These tastings not only delight the palate but also deepen your understanding of how cacao has been used historically and today.

6. Take-home Souvenirs

At the end, you’ll unmold your chocolates and walk away with your handmade bonbons, along with a sample of the artisanal chocolate you’ve made. This is a real plus—you’re leaving with a tangible memory of what you’ve learned and created.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The $103 per person fee covers the entire two-hour session, including the introduction, the making process, tasting, and your take-home chocolates. It’s also worth noting that you will take home their creations, which is a nice value add.

However, transportation is not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to reach the workshop location. This could be a minor inconvenience depending on your plans, but most reviews suggest it’s easy enough to get there with a short taxi or public transit.

The Experience from a Traveler’s Perspective

From those who have participated, the feedback is mostly positive. One reviewer appreciated the “warm introduction” and “hands-on approach,” noting that “we loved the way they demonstrated roasting and grinding.” Others highlight the small group size—limited to 6 participants—allowing for personalized attention and a relaxed environment.

Some also appreciated that the process is not rushed, giving everyone time to learn and ask questions. The tasting at the end is frequently praised, with comments like “the cocoa tea and pre-Hispanic chocolate were fascinating,” adding a cultural dimension to the workshop.

A few comments point out that transportation might be a consideration, but the overall value for the price is favorable, especially given the chance to create and take home custom chocolates.

Analyzing the Value

While $103 might seem steep for a two-hour activity, it’s important to recognize what’s included. You’re paying for a comprehensive, hands-on experience that melds culture, craftsmanship, and taste. Plus, the chocolates you take home are a tangible memento of your time in Oaxaca. Compared to purchasing artisanal chocolates in local markets, which might be more expensive for smaller quantities, this workshop offers a unique and educational experience worth the cost.

You’ll also gain insight into the traditional techniques that keep Oaxaca’s chocolate-making alive—a cultural connection that enriches your understanding of the region.

This workshop is perfect for food lovers and curious travelers eager to understand the craftsmanship behind Mexican chocolate. It’s ideal if you enjoy interactive, small-group activities and don’t mind organizing your own transportation. Families with children might find it especially engaging, and anyone interested in culinary traditions will appreciate the depth of knowledge shared.

If you prefer quick tastings or are not interested in hands-on activities, this might not be your best fit. But for those looking for an authentic, memorable, and delicious experience in Oaxaca, it delivers on all fronts.

This Oaxaca chocolate workshop offers more than just a sweet treat. It’s a hands-on journey into the heart of Mexican cacao culture, combining traditional techniques with modern artistry. You’ll come away with practical skills, delicious chocolates, and a deeper appreciation for Oaxaca’s artisanal heritage.

The experience’s intimate size and focus on craftsmanship make it a standout activity for travelers who value authenticity and learning. While transportation logistics require some planning, the overall value—both educational and edible—makes it a worthwhile addition to your Oaxaca itinerary.

Whether you’re a seasoned chocoholic or simply looking for a fun, cultural activity that feeds your curiosity, this workshop will satisfy your sweet tooth and your sense of discovery.

Is transportation to the workshop included?
No, transportation is not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to get there. Most visitors find it accessible via taxi or local transit.

What do I take home after the workshop?
You get to take home your handmade chocolate bonbons and a sample of the artisanal chocolate you’ve created, making it a personal souvenir.

How long is the workshop?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, usually scheduled for the afternoon, giving you plenty of time to learn and enjoy.

What languages are spoken during the workshop?
The instructor speaks Spanish. If you’re not fluent, a basic understanding of Spanish or a translator might be helpful, but the small group setting encourages interaction.

Can I join with children?
While not explicitly stated, the hands-on nature and creative activities suggest it could be suitable for children, especially older kids. Always check with the provider if you’re bringing young children.

Are the chocolates made during the workshop suitable for vegetarians?
The description does not specify dietary restrictions, but since the focus is on traditional ingredients like cocoa, almonds, and cinnamon, it’s likely suitable for vegetarians. Confirm if necessary.

Is there any cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

In summary, the Oaxaca Chocolate Workshop is a well-rounded, culturally rich activity that combines education, hands-on craft, and delicious tasting. It’s a wonderful way to deepen your appreciation for Oaxaca’s culinary traditions while creating something sweet and personal.

You can check availability for your dates here: