When we first thought about baking sourdough, we knew we wanted to do it together. Baking has always been something we enjoy doing as a couple, but sourdough felt a little intimidating. We had heard that sourdough was a challenging bread to make, and we weren’t sure where to start. That’s when we decided to sign up for a Sourdough Workshop at the Sourdough Baking Academy, and it turned out to be one of the best decisions we’ve made!
Here’s a look at how our day at the workshop went—and why we highly recommend it to anyone looking to have fun and learn something new.
A Warm Welcome and Cozy Environment
From the moment we walked through the doors of the Sourdough Baking Academy, we felt at home. The staff was welcoming, and the atmosphere was warm and cozy—perfect for a day of baking. There was an energy in the air, with other participants chatting excitedly and sharing their experiences. The instructors greeted us with big smiles and made sure we were settled in with everything we needed: aprons, tools, and, of course, the key ingredient—flour!
The Academy’s workshop setting felt like a community, and we were eager to jump into the hands-on experience of sourdough baking.
Step-by-Step Guidance from Experts
The workshop was led by an expert baker who took us through each stage of the sourdough process with clear, easy-to-follow instructions. It was perfect for both beginners and more experienced bakers like us. We had always heard about how complex sourdough can be, but our instructor broke it down in such a way that it felt manageable and even fun.
We started by learning how to mix the dough and then moved on to shaping the loaves. The instructor walked us through different techniques, showing us how to stretch and fold the dough to create a strong structure. There was something so satisfying about getting our hands into the dough, feeling the texture change with each fold. The best part? We were doing it together! It was a great bonding experience, and we loved working side by side as we learned.
Discovering the Art of Scoring
One of the most exciting parts of the workshop was learning how to score the dough. Before the workshop, we had no idea that scoring wasn’t just for decoration—it actually affects the way the bread bakes! The instructor showed us how to make different patterns, like the classic “X” or the more intricate designs that create beautiful ears and deep slashes in the crust.
We were both surprised at how much of an impact scoring had on the final look of our loaves. Our bread came out of the oven looking professional—like something you’d see in a bakery! It was an amazing feeling to see our efforts pay off so beautifully.
The Joy of Baking Together
What really made this experience special was how much fun we had working together. Baking sourdough is definitely a process that requires patience, but the entire workshop felt like one big collaborative project. We laughed, shared tips, and enjoyed the company of other sourdough lovers. There was a sense of camaraderie that made the whole experience even more enjoyable.
The Academy’s instructors were incredibly helpful, offering advice and answering any questions we had along the way. Whether it was about kneading techniques, timing, or baking tips, we felt supported the entire time. We left the workshop with a sense of accomplishment, knowing that we not only learned a new skill but also created something special together.
Bringing Our Loaves Home
At the end of the day, we got to take home the loaves we’d baked. The smell of freshly baked sourdough filled our kitchen as we set our loaves down to cool. It was such a rewarding feeling to see our hard work come to life in the form of beautiful, golden loaves. We couldn’t wait to cut into them, and when we finally did, we were amazed by how soft, airy, and delicious they were. It was the perfect end to a perfect day.
Why We Recommend the Sourdough Baking Academy’s Workshops
We can’t recommend the Sourdough Baking Academy’s workshops enough. Whether you’re a couple like us, a group of friends, or an individual looking to learn, this experience is worth it. The instructors are knowledgeable, friendly, and patient, and they create an environment where everyone can feel comfortable, regardless of their experience level.
The hands-on nature of the workshop allowed us to not only learn how to make sourdough but also enjoy the entire process—from mixing the dough to scoring and baking. Plus, we got to bring home loaves that we could proudly say we made ourselves.
If you’ve ever thought about baking sourdough but felt intimidated or unsure where to start, this workshop is the perfect way to dive in. You’ll leave with new skills, a sense of accomplishment, and, of course, some amazing homemade bread. We can’t wait to sign up for another workshop and continue our sourdough journey together!
Happy baking!