Paris: Pastry Class with Ferrandi Chef at Galeries Lafayette

Taking a pastry class in Paris sounds like a dream, right? While we haven’t personally whipped up croissants or Millefeuille in this session, we’ve seen enough to tell you it’s a popular, well-rated experience that offers a tasty taste of French baking. Perfect for those who have a sweet tooth, an interest in baking, or just want to do something uniquely Parisian, this class promises a chance to learn from a chef from one of France’s top culinary schools, Ferrandi.

What really draws us in are the hands-on approach—you get to actually make your own desserts—and the chance to savor your creations in a stylish, iconic Parisian setting. On the flip side, it’s a short, two-hour experience, which might leave some craving more in-depth instruction or follow-up support. If you’re someone who loves trying new skills while traveling or enjoys sweet treats, this class could be right up your alley.

This experience suits travelers looking for a practical, fun activity that combines culture, cuisine, and a bit of self-indulgence. It’s especially good if you’re traveling with friends or want a break from sightseeing with a tasty reward at the end. Keep in mind, it’s not for kids under 12, and teenagers under 16 need to be accompanied by an adult, so it’s more adult-friendly than family-focused.

Key Points

• Learn from a Ferrandi-trained pastry chef in a stylish Parisian setting.
• Create classic French desserts like Millefeuille, Saint-Honoré, or strawberry pie.
• Enjoy a hands-on, interactive experience that lasts around 2 hours.
• Savor your baked creations at the end for a delightful tasting session.
• Small group size (limited to 6) ensures personalized attention.
• Includes apron, chef’s hat, and recipe for you to take home and try again.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect from the Pastry Class

The class takes place in the well-equipped Ferrandi Kitchen located at Galeries Lafayette, a landmark department store on Boulevard Haussmann. Your instructor will be a skilled chef from Ferrandi, one of the top culinary schools in France, who will guide you through the process of making authentic French desserts.

As the class begins, you’ll meet your instructor and fellow baking enthusiasts. The group is small—limited to six participants—which means you’re not just a number; you get focused attention, tips, and tricks directly from a professional. The instruction is available in both English and French, making it accessible for a diverse range of travelers.

Once underway, you’ll learn the secrets behind classic French pastries. The recipes offered include options like Strawberry Pie, Millefeuille, or Saint-Honoré cake, giving you a taste of the variety and finesse that French pastry chefs are known for. The interactive part lasts about 1.5 hours, during which you’ll get to roll, fill, layer, and decorate.

The atmosphere is casual but professional—the kitchen is bustling with activity, and the chef explains techniques step-by-step. Expect to pick up useful tips, such as how to get a perfect flaky crust or how to achieve that signature silky cream. You’ll also learn some handy tricks that give your pastries that restaurant-worthy touch.

At the end of the class, you’ll spend about half an hour enjoying your hard work. You get to taste your desserts fresh out of the oven or assembled, which is a highlight for many. Plus, you’ll receive a recipe sheet and an apron and chef’s hat to keep as souvenirs, so you can try making these desserts again back home.

The Value of the Experience

At $152 per person, this class offers solid value—you’re paying for expert instruction, high-quality ingredients, and the chance to learn from a top culinary school’s chef. Several reviews highlight how much participants appreciated the knowledgeable guidance and felt they gained useful techniques they could replicate later. One reviewer even mentioned that the chef “revealed and explained lots of tricks,” which can be rare in a short class.

While the class doesn’t include drinks, it’s easy to add a glass of wine or coffee nearby, making for a relaxed, enjoyable afternoon. The small group setting ensures personalized guidance, and the focus on hands-on learning makes it more engaging than just watching a demo.

Some travelers expressed a desire for more follow-up, like a video link to help reproduce recipes at home, but overall, most seem satisfied with the takeaway skills. The price reflects the quality of instruction, the ingredients, and the memorable experience of making authentic French desserts in Paris.

The Downside and Considerations

A few reviews mention that the time might feel a bit rushed—the explanation and demonstration are quick, with less time for detailed questions. If you’re hungry for a deep dive into pastry techniques, this might feel a little light; it’s more of a tasting and beginner-friendly intro.

Children under 12 are not allowed, and teenagers under 16 need adult accompaniment. If you’re traveling with young kids, this class probably isn’t the right fit. Also, since drinks aren’t included, you might want to bring your own or plan to visit a nearby café afterward.

Lastly, the class doesn’t guarantee that every participant will leave as a master baker—expect to learn some key techniques but don’t anticipate becoming a pastry pro in just two hours. Still, it’s a fun, memorable way to get a taste of French baking culture.

Who Is This Best For?

If you’re a dessert lover or aspiring baker, this class offers a practical and enjoyable way to pick up some authentic techniques in a Parisian setting. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate small-group experiences and personalized guidance. Travelers looking for a cultural activity with delicious rewards at the end will find this experience rewarding.

It’s also a great choice for friends or couples wanting a fun, interactive activity—though not ideal for families with young children. If you’re after a deep culinary immersion or want to learn more complex pastry techniques, you might want to explore more intensive classes or workshops.

FAQ

Is this class suitable for beginners?
Yes, the class covers the basics of French pastry making and is designed to be accessible, even for those with little or no baking experience.

How long does the class last?
It’s a 2-hour experience, with about 1.5 hours dedicated to hands-on baking and the last half-hour for tasting and relaxing.

What should I bring?
Just your passport or ID. The class provides aprons, chef hats, and recipes. Drinks are not included, so feel free to bring your own if you’d like.

Can I choose the recipes I want to make?
The class offers multiple recipes such as Millefeuille, Strawberry Pie, and Saint-Honoré cake, but it’s best to check with the provider for specific options on the day.

Is the experience family-friendly?
Children under 12 are not permitted, and teenagers under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers the instruction, ingredients, apron, chef’s hat, and a recipe sheet to take home.

All in all, this pastry class at Galeries Lafayette with a Ferrandi chef is a charming, practical, and tasty way to spend a couple of hours in Paris. Whether you’re a baking newbie or just want to learn a few tricks from a professional, it’s a worthwhile experience—especially if you enjoy sweet things and want a fun story to tell back home.

You can check availability for your dates here: