Porto: Pastel de Nata Cooking Class from Scratch

If you’re visiting Porto and craving a true taste of Portugal’s beloved pastry, a Pastel de Nata cooking class from scratch might just be the highlight of your trip. This experience promises to teach you the secrets behind these iconic custard tarts, all while enjoying a lively, small-group atmosphere and a splash of local wine.

What we love about this class is the chance to actually make the pastry dough — most workshops only let you fill pre-made shells — giving you the confidence to reproduce these delicacies at home. The friendly, knowledgeable guides make the process approachable even for beginners. Plus, the inclusion of regional wine really elevates the experience, making it a relaxed, social affair.

On the flip side, a potential consideration is that this is an adult-only, group activity with limited capacity, and strict start times mean you need to arrive on time. If you’re traveling with children or prefer a very flexible schedule, this might not fit perfectly. Still, if you’re eager to learn a traditional recipe in an authentic setting, this class is ideal for food lovers, curious travelers, and anyone wanting a memorable hands-on activity in Porto.

Who will enjoy this experience?

This class suits those who enjoy cooking or want to learn a new skill, travelers eager for culture, and anyone looking for a fun, authentic activity that combines food and wine. It’s perfect for adults who enjoy a social setting and appreciate local flavors. Families with children under 15 should consider booking a private session, as this workshop is not suitable for minors.

• Authentic from-scratch experience: Make the pastry dough and custard, gaining confidence to recreate at home.
• Cultural insights: Learn about the history and tradition of Portuguese pastries.
• Inclusive hands-on activity: Participate actively in each step, with guidance from friendly instructors.
• Enjoy regional wine: Sip local wine while cooking, adding a relaxed, social touch.
• Small group feel: Groups up to 12 maximize interaction and individual attention.
• Highly rated: The class boasts a 4.9/5 rating from nearly 200 reviews, indicating consistent quality and satisfaction.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Arriving and Meeting Up

The class begins at a designated meeting point in Porto, with the exact location varying depending on your booking option. It’s essential to arrive promptly, as the door closes once the scheduled start time, and late arrivals cannot join or reschedule. This punctuality ensures a smooth, stress-free beginning and the chance for everyone to participate fully.

The Atmosphere and Venue

Participants rave about the beautiful, clean venue in the heart of Porto. From the reviews, it’s clear that the environment is welcoming and well-equipped, creating a setting conducive to learning and fun. The space isn’t just functional but inviting, making you feel comfortable enough to get your hands floury without hesitation.

The Teaching Style

The guides are consistently praised for their knack for explaining each step clearly and patiently. Several reviews highlight the lively and engaging personalities of the instructors, who manage to make the technical details accessible for all, from complete novices to seasoned bakers.

One reviewer notes, “She was skilled in getting everyone involved,” reinforcing the participatory nature of the workshop. Others mention that the instructors’ humor and friendly approach help keep everyone relaxed and focused.

Making the Pastry from Scratch

Most importantly, you’ll learn how to craft the dough from scratch — a rarity among pastry workshops — and how to fill the shells with a perfect custard. This process involves making a sugar syrup, preparing the custard filling, and baking until golden. The ability to do it yourself means you’ll leave with a valuable skill and a sense of accomplishment.

Participants report that the process is well-paced but also engaging enough to keep everyone involved. “You make the pastry, line the tins, prepare the custard, and bake,” says one review, emphasizing how comprehensive the experience is.

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Tasting and Socializing

Once the pastries are baked, it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. The class offers warm pastel de nata, which reviewers universally praise as delicious, especially knowing they made them themselves. The inclusion of local wine adds a festive, convivial element, allowing attendees to relax and discuss their results.

Reviews mention the generous pours and good-quality wine, which elevates the social aspect of the class. Many say it’s a perfect way to mingle with fellow travelers and learn about Portuguese culture through food and drink.

Post-Class and Takeaways

After the session, you’ll often receive a recipe and instructions, allowing you to recreate your pastel de nata at home. Several reviewers appreciated being able to download the recipe, making it easier to replicate the pastry or share the experience with friends and family.

Overall Value and Considerations

At $45 per person, this is quite a good deal considering the in-depth, hands-on learning, the high-quality ingredients, and the inclusion of regional wine. The 2.5-hour duration offers ample time to understand each step without feeling rushed.

While some travelers might prefer a more flexible schedule or want to include children, the class’s focus on adults and the strict start times mean it’s best suited for those who appreciate structure and adult conversations. The group size, capped at 12, ensures everyone can participate actively, which many find makes the experience more personal and enjoyable.

Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and their ability to blend technical tips with cultural storytelling. Participants often comment on the “great interaction,” “friendly atmosphere,” and “delicious pastries,” which show how successful the instructors are at making the session both educational and fun.

The regional wine is not just an add-on but genuinely enhances the experience, giving a tasting note to the culinary journey. The class’s location, in the lively heart of Porto, also means you’ll be in a vibrant part of town, ready to explore further once the workshop ends.

This Pastel de Nata cooking class offers a rare chance to really learn the craft of Portugal’s most famous pastry, from making the dough to filling and baking. The small-group setting, engaging guides, and inclusion of wine make it more than just a cooking lesson — it’s a cultural experience.

It’s especially well-suited for travelers who enjoy hands-on activities, want to deepen their understanding of Portuguese culinary traditions, and like the idea of enjoying their own freshly baked pastel de nata with a glass of local wine. If you’re looking for a memorable, authentic activity that combines learning, tasting, and socializing, this class is a smart choice.

Who should consider booking?

Food lovers eager to master a traditional recipe will find this class rewarding. It’s also ideal for those wanting a relaxed, fun way to connect with Porto’s culture. Families with children under 15 should look into private options, but for adults, this workshop offers a delightful mix of skill, flavor, and local charm.

Is this class suitable for beginners?
Yes, the guides are skilled at explaining each step clearly, making it perfect for first-time bakers and those with some experience alike.

What is included in the price?
The workshop covers the pastry-making process, guided instruction, your freshly baked pastel de nata, and a glass of regional wine.

Can I participate if I don’t drink alcohol?
The class includes a glass of wine, but if you prefer not to drink, you might find it best to enjoy the pastries and perhaps bring your own beverage.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
Yes, groups can have up to 12 participants, ensuring ample interaction and personalized guidance.

Are children allowed?
No, this is an adult-only workshop, and children under 15 are not permitted. Families with kids should opt for a private session.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for a kitchen environment are recommended. Expect some flour and perhaps a little mess.

Can I reschedule or cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your travel plans.

Is the location easy to reach?
The meeting point varies depending on your booking, but it’s situated in Porto’s central area. Check your confirmation for precise directions.

How long does the class last?
The experience runs approximately 2.5 hours, giving enough time to learn, bake, and enjoy your creations.

Can I take home leftovers?
Yes, you will have the opportunity to enjoy your pastries fresh and take some home if you have leftovers.

In summary, this Pastel de Nata from Scratch workshop offers a balanced blend of authentic culinary education, cultural insights, and social fun. Ideal for those wanting a meaningful, tasty souvenir from Porto, it delivers more than just a recipe — it’s a memorable taste of Portugal’s culinary soul.

You can check availability for your dates here: