A Cozy Cooking Class in a Padua Home: Making Pasta and Tiramisu from Scratch
Imagine stepping into a local Italian’s home in Padua, where you’re greeted with warmth and a genuine passion for good food. That’s exactly what this private pasta and tiramisu masterclass offers — a chance to learn how two of Italy’s most beloved dishes are made in a relaxed, intimate setting. This isn’t a crowded group tour with rushed instructions; it’s a more personal experience where you get to ask questions, get one-on-one demonstrations, and truly take your time to master the techniques.
What we really appreciate about this experience is how it combines cultural authenticity with practical cooking tips. You’re not just watching a chef; you’re engaging directly with someone who shares their family recipes and secrets. Plus, the tasting at the end makes all your effort worthwhile, giving you a taste of Italy right from a local’s kitchen. One potential consideration? The price is on the higher side — but considering the personalized nature and the quality of the experience, many find it well worth it.
This tour is best suited for food lovers who want a hands-on, genuine experience, and those curious about Italian home cooking. It’s a particularly good pick if you value quality over quantity and enjoy learning new skills in a relaxed, friendly environment.
Key Points

- Intimate setting: Small, private class held in a local Padua home for a personal experience
- Educational & fun: Learn to make authentic Italian pasta and tiramisu from a local expert
- Taste what you make: Enjoy the dishes you prepare, complemented with wine and coffee
- Flexible & personalized: Ask questions and get direct tips from your host, Catia Gambelli
- Cost vs. value: At $173.61 per person, this experience offers detailed instruction and a genuine taste of Italy
- Cancellation policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind
What to Expect from the Private Pasta & Tiramisu Masterclass
This three-hour class is designed to give you a true taste of Italian home cooking. You’ll start by meeting your host in her carefully selected home in Padua, where she’ll welcome you like a guest rather than a tourist. The setting is relaxed, warm, and perfect for those who want to learn in an authentic environment.
The core of the experience revolves around learning to make two types of pasta and crafting tiramisu from scratch. You’ll see firsthand how your host, a Cesarina, applies her family recipes and regional tips—something you won’t get from a generic cooking school. The emphasis is on hands-on participation, so expect to knead, roll, and shape your pasta, plus whip up mascarpone cream and layer tiramisu with care.
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The Cooking Process
The class typically involves making different pasta dishes, with your host sharing insights into the regional influences that shape the cuisine. We loved the way the host, Catia Gambelli, shared her knowledge about the region and how it impacts the ingredients and techniques she uses. As she puts it, her goal is not just teaching recipes but helping you understand the soul of Italian cooking.
You’ll also learn practical tips such as how to achieve perfect pasta texture and tricks for a creamy yet firm tiramisu. Throughout, you’re encouraged to ask questions, which makes the session interactive and tailored to your interests.
The Tasting & Drinks
Once all the dishes are prepared, it’s time to sit down and enjoy the fruits of your labor. You’ll get to taste everything you’ve made, complemented with wine and coffee, making for a very satisfying finale. Many reviews highlight how delicious and satisfying the food was, emphasizing the quality of the homemade dishes.
The Experience Atmosphere
What sets this apart is the personal connection you develop with your host. Linda_A, who left a glowing review, described Catia as “the absolute PERFECT host,” praising her regional knowledge and how she made everyone feel like friends. It’s a genuine, friendly environment where you can relax and focus on learning without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
The Practical Side: Price, Duration, and Booking
At roughly $174 per person, this experience isn’t the cheapest, but it reflects the personalized nature and the level of expertise involved. Plus, the ability to learn directly in a local home adds considerable value, especially for those who want more than just a demonstration — they want to get their hands dirty and understand the craft.
The class lasts around three hours, which feels like a good amount of time for instruction, hands-on cooking, and tasting without dragging on. The experience is booked efficiently, with most participants scheduling about 7-8 weeks in advance — a sign it’s quite popular.
Booking is straightforward, with a mobile ticket option, and there’s the added benefit of free cancellation if your plans change, up to 24 hours before the class.
Prefer personalized experiences? Here are other private options we've covered in Padua
- Private Tours of Padova with a Professional Guide
- Private Padua Highlights Tour including Scrovegni Chapel and St Antonio Basilic
- Private Gnocchi Cooking Class with Professional Chef in Padova
- Chioggia Port to Venice Airport(VCE) – Departure Private Transfer
- Private Tour Discovering Padova
- Chioggia Port to Venice, Piazzale Roma – Arrival Private Transfer
Who Will Love This Experience?

This class is perfect for foodies eager to learn authentic Italian recipes from someone who lives in Padua. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a more immersive, personal experience rather than a large-scale cooking show. If you enjoy tasting your own creations and want insider tips on regional ingredients and techniques, this will hit the mark.
It also suits travelers who appreciate relaxed, friendly environments — no formalities, just good food and good company. While not specifically aimed at families or children, the experience’s hands-on nature and detailed instruction make it accessible for mature teenagers interested in cooking.
The Sum Up
If you’re after a genuine insight into Italian home cooking, this private pasta and tiramisu masterclass offers a fulfilling, tasty, and memorable experience. The intimacy of learning in a local’s home, combined with the chance to make and taste traditional dishes, makes it a worthwhile splurge for food lovers.
It’s especially beneficial for those who value personalized attention and are curious about regional Italian cuisine. While the price might seem high, many find the quality of instruction and the authentic connection with their host justifies the cost. If you’re in Padua and want to take home not just recipes but a real taste of Italy, this experience deserves serious consideration.
Private Pasta & Tiramisu Masterclass at a Cesarina’s home with tasting in Padua
“Catia Gambelli is the absolute PERFECT host! Her knowledge of the region & how it impacts the foods that are made was interesting! We made severa…”
FAQ
Is this a group or private experience?
This is a private cooking class, meaning only your group will participate, allowing for personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
How long does the class last?
The experience lasts approximately 3 hours, giving plenty of time to learn, cook, and enjoy your creations.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the experience starts. After that, the refund is not available.
What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers the private lesson in a local home, the ingredients for making pasta and tiramisu, and wine and coffee to accompany your tasting.
Is this suitable for beginners?
Yes, the class is designed to be accessible, and your host will guide you step-by-step, making it perfect for beginners and those with some cooking experience.
Do I need to bring anything?
No specific supplies are needed; everything is provided by your host. Just bring your appetite and enthusiasm.
Is this experience family-friendly?
It’s not specifically advertised as family-oriented, but mature teenagers who enjoy cooking might find it fun and educational.
This class offers a genuine slice of Italian life, where food, culture, and warm hospitality come together. Perfect for those who want a memorable and hands-on culinary adventure in Padua.
More Private Tours in Padua
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More Padua experiences we've covered
- Guided tour of Giotto’s Scrovegni Chapel
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- Padua Botanical Garden: Sacred Architecture and Plant Intelligence
- Private Pizza & Tiramisu Class at a Cesarina’s home with tasting in Padua
- Padua: evening tour with admission to the Scrovegni Chapel
- Full Day guided Tour of Verona and Garda Lake
- Abano Terme to Venice Airport VCE Departure Private Transfer
- Vegetarian Cooking Class from Veneto Region by a local
- Experience – Visit and tasting in the Euganean Hills
- City Sightseeing Padua Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
- Boat Tour from Chioggia to the Islands & Transfer from/to Venice
- Padua: Historic Walking Tour and Tasting at Caffè Pedrocchi


