Irish Baking Class: Granny’s Apple Cake, Traditional Scones

If you’re looking for a sweet, relaxed way to dip into Irish culture without racing through museums or sightseeing buses, this Irish Baking Class might be just what you need. Based in Dublin, it offers a chance to step into a local home, roll up your sleeves, and learn how to make some authentic Irish treats. Whether you’re a baking enthusiast or just someone who loves tasting good food and hearing stories, this experience has a lot to offer.

What we love about this class are two big things: first, the genuine, welcoming atmosphere where you’re treated like a guest in a friend’s home. Second, the focus on Irish food and culture, which makes each bite and each story feel meaningful. The only thing to consider is that it’s a relatively short, 90-minute session—so if you’re craving a deep-dive into Irish cuisine, you might want to supplement this with other activities.

This experience is ideal for those who want a hands-on, cultural break from sightseeing, especially if you enjoy food that has a story behind it. It’s also suitable for families and can be customized for dietary needs, making it flexible and inclusive. If you’re after a memorable, authentic taste of Dublin’s home-cooking scene, this class could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Authentic Irish home setting creates a warm, personal atmosphere.
• Choose between baking scones or Granny’s apple cake, both traditional favorites.
• Learn useful baking tips and Irish stories from a passionate host.
• Suitable for ages 8+ and families, with dietary needs accommodated.
• Includes tasty treats and recipes to take home, plus extra baked goods.
• Small group size (up to 6 people) ensures personalized attention.

What to Expect During the Irish Baking Class

This experience takes place inside a lovely Victorian Dublin home, where you’re welcomed with a cup of tea or coffee. From the moment you step in, it feels like visiting a friend’s cozy kitchen. Owner and host Emily Lavelle, who also works as a wellness coach, makes sure everyone feels relaxed and engaged. Her warmth and enthusiasm shine through, making the whole process easy and enjoyable.

The core activity involves making either traditional Irish scones or Granny’s beloved apple cake. You get to pick what you want to bake, which adds a personalized touch. All ingredients and equipment are supplied, so you don’t need to worry about bringing anything along. Emily shares her passion for Irish food and culture as you bake, offering helpful tips to improve your technique and insights into Irish life.

While the treats are baking, there’s plenty of time for chatting. Emily shares stories about Irish traditions, food heritage, and her personal experiences—making this more than just a cooking class. Expect a friendly, conversational vibe that makes you feel like you’re learning from a neighbor rather than in a formal class.

Once your baked goods are ready, you’ll sit down to enjoy them warm, paired with cream, butter, or jam, depending on what you baked. The apple cake, in particular, is described as having a “divine” combination of spices and fresh cream, leaving many attendees raving about the flavors. You leave with recipes to recreate these treats at home, plus some extra baked goods to take home—a lovely touch that extends the experience beyond Dublin.

The Details: How the Class Runs

The class runs for approximately 90 minutes, starting at 10:30 am on morehampton Road in Dublin. The small group size—no more than six people—means you get personalized attention and lots of opportunity to ask questions or share stories. The price is around $100.80 per person, which might seem a little steep for some, but considering the intimate atmosphere, the homemade treats, and the personalized recipes, it offers good value.

The experience is designed to be flexible for dietary requirements—just let Emily know in advance. It’s also suitable for ages 8 and up, making it family-friendly, especially for those who want a more relaxed, educational activity outside typical city tours.

Since the experience includes extra baked goods and recipes, it’s easy to recreate the magic back home. Plus, you’ll gain practical baking tips from someone who clearly loves sharing her culinary heritage.

Authenticity and Authentic Irish Food

One thing that really shines through in reviews is how much participants appreciate Emily’s storytelling. As one reviewer put it, Emily “shared old family recipes, tasted wonderful, and shared about Irish heritage and life.” That personal touch makes the experience feel genuine—more than just a cooking class, it’s a little window into Irish life.

Most reviews emphasize the quality of the baked goods, especially the scones, which are described as “the best scones ever” and “deliciously fluffy,” with a perfect balance of flavor and texture. The apple cake is also a highlight, with its “spiced flavors” and “divine” cream topping.

Beyond the food, many mention the warm environment and Emily’s friendly attitude. As one reviewer said, “she’s most pleasant and willing to share her truly Irish story,” making it clear that this is about more than just recipes—it’s about storytelling, community, and shared love for Irish traditions.

Is It Worth the Price?

At just over $100, this experience might seem a bit pricey, especially if you’re on a tight budget. But considering that you get a personalized class, all ingredients, recipes, and extra baked goodies, it’s more of an experience investment. You’re paying for a memorable, relaxed morning in a welcoming home, with plenty of stories and tips along the way.

For those who appreciate authentic, hands-on cultural experiences and really want to learn about Irish food beyond the stereotypes, this class offers good value. Plus, it’s perfect for travelers who want a break from the usual sightseeing and prefer a more personal, cozy activity.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This baking class is especially well-suited for food lovers, culture enthusiasts, and families looking for a fun, educational activity. If you enjoy cooking or want to learn some Irish recipes you can recreate at home, you’ll find this both useful and enjoyable. It’s also a great option if you’re traveling with children age 8 or older, as everyone can get involved.

Since the class is hosted in a private home, it’s ideal for those who prefer a relaxed, intimate setting rather than large group tours. And if you have dietary restrictions, just give Emily a heads-up—she’s happy to accommodate.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this Irish Baking Class offers a genuine taste of Dublin life—literally and figuratively. It’s a friendly, approachable way to connect with Irish culture through food, stories, and shared laughter. You’ll leave with not just freshly baked goodies but also a sense of connection and new knowledge.

While it’s a short experience, the warmth of Emily’s hospitality and the delicious results make it a highlight for many travelers. Whether you’re a passionate baker or simply curious about Irish culinary traditions, this class provides a cozy, memorable morning in Dublin’s charming setting.

FAQs

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for ages 8 and up. It’s a relaxed, family-friendly activity where everyone can get involved, especially since all equipment and ingredients are provided.

Can dietary requirements be accommodated?
Absolutely. Just let Emily know in advance, and she’ll make arrangements for your specific needs.

What are the class timings?
The class begins at 10:30 am and lasts about 90 minutes. It’s a morning activity, perfect for starting your day with some fun and food.

What do I get at the end of the class?
You’ll enjoy your homemade baked treat, take home extra baked goods, and receive recipes so you can recreate the dishes at home.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is six, ensuring everyone gets personalized attention and a comfortable environment.

Is there any transportation needed?
The meeting point is on Morehampton Road in Dublin, near public transportation, so getting there should be straightforward.

If you’re curious about Irish food, love a comfy, friendly atmosphere, and want a memorable experience to remember Dublin by, this baking class is a charming choice. It’s a chance to learn, laugh, and taste your way through Irish tradition—all in a welcoming home setting.