Jr. Chef Baking I - Fundamentals
The Essex Resort & Spa is excited to launch a hands-on Jr. Chef baking series designed just for students (ages 12-15). Over six weeks, budding bakers will roll up their sleeves and dive into the building blocks of baking—butter, eggs, flour, and sugar.
Guided by a professional chef instructor in our Viking classroom kitchen, students will learn how to measure, mix, and master key techniques while creating a new baked treat each week. From planning and following recipes to experimenting with textures and flavors, this series is all about learning by doing.
Every class ends with students bringing home their own fresh-baked creations—plus the confidence and skills to recreate them in their own kitchens.
$400
1/13/2026 - Week 1, Butter I - Pate Sucree (sweet dough).
Learn the basics of butter and the creamed technique of making pate sucree.
Leave with fresh cookies and your own pate sucree dough.
1/20/2026 - Week 2, Butter II - Pate Brisee (flaking pie dough).
Review the basics of butter and learn the important technique of cutting butter into flour.
Leave with an apple galette and your own pate brisee dough.
1/27/2026 - Week 3, Eggs I - Meringue.
Learn the basics of an egg - from shell to yolk to whites - and the three different types of meringue. Leave with sweet treats made from the meringue you make.
2/03/2026 - Week 4, Eggs II - Custards, Curds, and Creams.
Review the basics of an egg, and learn the characteristics egg yolks impart on baked goods. Leave with your own custard tarts.
2/10/2026 - Week 5, Flour.
Learn the basics of wheat flour, ancient grains, and wheat alternatives. Make and bake naan (Indian flat bread), and leave with your own delicious dips to eat with the breads you bake.
2/17/2026 - Week 6, Sugar.
Learn the basics of sugar and the chemistry behind caramelization. From granulated sugar make your own hard caramels (English toffee) and caramel sauce to take home.
What to Expect
Please plan to be in class 5 minutes before class begins so that we may take roll call.
FOR HANDS ON CLASSES
ATTIRE: The Essex recommends that students wear closed-toe shoes to class and to dress appropriately for a cooking environment and have long hair tied back. Shorts, skirts, open-toed shoes, and flip flops are not allowed to be worn during any classes. The Essex will provide an apron to protect most clothing but, being a professional kitchen environment, spills do unfortunately happen.
KITCHEN SAFETY: Participants assume and accept that they will be participating in cooking activities where there is a natural element of risk of injury with kitchen appliances, equipment, knives, allergic reactions, and other participants in the class. When you reserve your cooking class you acknowledge this level of risk to yourself while participating in the activities at The Essex.
Cancellation
The Essex reserves the right to limit class sizes, revise any or all menus, substitute food items, cancel a class, change class time or location, and/or substitute instructors. If a class is cancelled, The Essex will contact the guests registered and arrange a credit or a refund. In case of inclement weather it is the responsibility of the guest to call for information regarding outdoor classes. Full refunds will be granted if cancellation is received 3 days or more prior to the cooking class or event. Exceptions may be made in cases of illness or flight delays. All cancellations must be made by phone: 802-878-1100. We will not accept email cancellation.
Please call 72 hours or more prior to the cooking class or event.
Spanish Fiesta!
Celebrate the bold, festive flavors of Spain in this hands-on Spanish Fiesta cooking class. Guests will explore classic Spanish techniques while preparing a selection of traditional tapas, a vibrant winter greens salad, and a timeless seafood paella rich with saffron and coastal flavors. The experience concludes with a delicate Spanish almond cake, showcasing the balance of simplicity and elegance that defines Spanish cuisine. Perfect for home cooks looking to expand their repertoire, this class offers a lively and flavorful journey through Spain’s culinary traditions.
$129
Additional information
Check-in details
Please plan to be in class 5 minutes before class begins
Duration
2.5 - 3 Hours
What to Expect
Hands on! Let us take you on a culinary adventure, and teach you some great skills along the way.
Expect to learn what the pros keep in their pantries, and how you can turn any week night dinner into a masterpiece!
Please include any food allergies or dietary restrictions in your booking comments!
Cancellations
The Essex reserves the right to limit class sizes, revise any or all menus, substitute food items, cancel a class, change class time or location, and/or substitute instructors. If a class is cancelled, The Essex will contact the guests registered and arrange a credit or a refund. In case of inclement weather it is the responsibility of the guest to call for information regarding outdoor classes. Full refunds will be granted if cancellation is received 3 days or more prior to the cooking class or event. Exceptions may be made in cases of illness or flight delays. All cancellations must be made by phone: 802-878-1100. We will not accept email cancellation.
Vermont Maple
Discover the versatility of Vermont maple syrup in this chef-taught cooking class that celebrates both sweet and savory applications. Guests will prepare a roasted beet salad finished with maple balsamic, maple-glazed salmon paired with wild rice pilaf, and conclude with decadent maple whisky cakes. This class showcases how maple syrup enhances depth, balance, and richness across a thoughtfully crafted seasonal menu.
$129
Additional information
Check-in details
Please plan to be in class 5 minutes before class begins
Duration
2.5 - 3 Hours
What to Expect
Hands on! Let us take you on a culinary adventure, and teach you some great skills along the way.
Expect to learn what the pros keep in their pantries, and how you can turn any weeknight dinner into a masterpiece!
Please include any food allergies or dietary restrictions in your booking comments!
Cancellations
The Essex reserves the right to limit class sizes, revise any or all menus, substitute food items, cancel a class, change class time or location, and/or substitute instructors. If a class is cancelled, The Essex will contact the guests registered and arrange a credit or a refund. In case of inclement weather it is the responsibility of the guest to call for information regarding outdoor classes. Full refunds will be granted if cancellation is received 3 days or more prior to the cooking class or event. Exceptions may be made in cases of illness or flight delays. All cancellations must be made by phone: 802-878-1100. We will not accept email cancellation.
Sweet & Savory Crepes
In this class you will learn the essentials of making crepes. Guided by a chef instructor, you’ll learn to make classic French crêpes from scratch, mastering the technique for tender, lacy-thin perfection.
We’ll explore delicious fillings from fresh berries and Nutella to melty cheese and smoky ham, and cover pro tips for batter, pan work, and plating.
$99
Additional information
Check-in details
Please plan to be in class 5 minutes before class begins
Duration
2 - 3 Hours
What to Expect
Hands on! Let us take you on a culinary adventure, and teach you some great skills along the way.
Expect to learn what the pros keep in their pantries, and how you can turn any week night dinner into a masterpiece!
Please include any food allergies or dietary restrictions in your booking comments!
Cancellations
The Essex reserves the right to limit class sizes, revise any or all menus, substitute food items, cancel a class, change class time or location, and/or substitute instructors. If a class is cancelled, The Essex will contact the guests registered and arrange a credit or a refund. In case of inclement weather it is the responsibility of the guest to call for information regarding outdoor classes. Full refunds will be granted if cancellation is received 3 days or more prior to the cooking class or event. Exceptions may be made in cases of illness or flight delays. All cancellations must be made by phone: 802-878-1100. We will not accept email cancellation.
Dal Fry and Paneer
Activity details
In this class guests learn how to develop rich flavors to create delicious Indian dishes. While the class is vegetarian, the techniques and flavors can be used with various meats. From North India dal fry to a Southern Indian dish featuring fried Indian cheese (paneer), guests work with Indian spices and fun regional ingredients to make their dinner from scratch. Guests will also make naan from scratch.
Vegetarian; Gluten-Free options available.
$129
Additional information
Check-in details
Please plan to be in class 5 minutes before class begins
Duration
2 - 3 Hours
What to Expect
Hands on! Let us take you on a culinary adventure, and teach you some great skills along the way.
Expect to learn what the pros keep in their pantries, and how you can turn any weeknight dinner into a masterpiece!
Please include any food allergies or dietary restrictions in your booking comments!
Cancellations
The Essex reserves the right to limit class sizes, revise any or all menus, substitute food items, cancel a class, change class time or location, and/or substitute instructors. If a class is cancelled, The Essex will contact the guests registered and arrange a credit or a refund. In case of inclement weather it is the responsibility of the guest to call for information regarding outdoor classes. Full refunds will be granted if cancellation is received 3 days or more prior to the cooking class or event. Exceptions may be made in cases of illness or flight delays. All cancellations must be made by phone: 802-878-1100. We will not accept email cancellation.
Classic Southern
Experience the comforting flavors of the American South in this chef-taught cooking class inspired by timeless Southern cuisine. Guests will prepare lump crab cakes, rich shrimp and grits, and flaky cheddar biscuits, learning techniques that bring depth and balance to these beloved dishes. The class concludes with Bananas Foster, a warm, indulgent dessert that perfectly captures Southern hospitality and tradition.
$129
Additional information
Check-in details
Please plan to be in class 5 minutes before class begins
Duration
2.5 - 3 Hours
What to Expect
Hands on! Let us take you on a culinary adventure, and teach you some great skills along the way.
Expect to learn what the pros keep in their pantries, and how you can turn any week night dinner into a masterpiece!
Please include any food allergies or dietary restrictions in your booking comments!
Cancellations
The Essex reserves the right to limit class sizes, revise any or all menus, substitute food items, cancel a class, change class time or location, and/or substitute instructors. If a class is cancelled, The Essex will contact the guests registered and arrange a credit or a refund. In case of inclement weather it is the responsibility of the guest to call for information regarding outdoor classes. Full refunds will be granted if cancellation is received 3 days or more prior to the cooking class or event. Exceptions may be made in cases of illness or flight delays. All cancellations must be made by phone: 802-878-1100. We will not accept email cancellation.
Italian Cucina
Italian cucina
Indulge in the refined comfort of Italian cucina in this chef-taught cooking class that highlights the regional diversity of Italy’s culinary traditions. Guests will prepare a vibrant panzanella salad, a luxurious cioppino served with creamy polenta, and conclude with a delicate lemon ricotta cake. Together, these dishes showcase the breadth, elegance, and depth of flavor found across Italy’s coastal and countryside kitchens.
$129
Additional information
Check-in details
Please plan to be in class 5 minutes before class begins
Duration
2.5 - 3 Hours
What to Expect
Hands on! Let us take you on a culinary adventure, and teach you some great skills along the way.
Expect to learn what the pros keep in their pantries, and how you can turn any week night dinner into a masterpiece!
Please include any food allergies or dietary restrictions in your booking comments!
Cancellations
The Essex reserves the right to limit class sizes, revise any or all menus, substitute food items, cancel a class, change class time or location, and/or substitute instructors. If a class is cancelled, The Essex will contact the guests registered and arrange a credit or a refund. In case of inclement weather it is the responsibility of the guest to call for information regarding outdoor classes. Full refunds will be granted if cancellation is received 3 days or more prior to the cooking class or event. Exceptions may be made in cases of illness or flight delays. All cancellations must be made by phone: 802-878-1100. We will not accept email cancellation.
The Cozy Up Retreat with Malaika DosRemedios
Malaika DosRemedios of Habitually Nourished presents The Cozy Up Retreat. Drop into deep rest with an intentional lay low and glow practice involving nervous system regulation practices and Tibetan singing bowl sound bath to start the afternoon. From there, you’ll move into self-inquiry journaling and a circle share, followed by hands-on time creating nourishing home and body care treats to take with you - simple rituals you can continue long after you leave. A seasonal lunch spread rounds out the afternoon, offering space to connect quietly with yourself and with others.
For guests looking to make a weekend of it, we have designed a two-night retreat experience that allows you to arrive the day before, settle in, and enjoy the spa and resort without rushing in or out. While guests may attend the retreat on its own, staying overnight offers time to integrate the experience - sleep deeply, enjoy your included spa service, and ease into departure with a complimentary late check-out. One-night stay options are also available for guests seeking a shorter visit.
The Cozy Up Retreat Details
Sunday, February 1, 2025
12:00PM-4:00PM
Farmhouse at The Essex
Overnight Stay Package Includes
One 50-minute spa service
Daily breakfast at The Lazy Goat Tavern
Complimentary 1pm check-out
Admission to The Cozy Up Retreat
Complimentary Spa Access throughout the length of stay
Overnight Stay Bookings:
Terms & Conditions:
Overnight reservations include one 50-minute spa service, admission to The Cozy Up Retreat, spa access, and daily breakfast for each adult on the reservation. Alcohol and gratuity are not included. Spa services require advance booking. Please contact our reservations team at 802-878-1100 to schedule your service in advance.
Cream Puffs
Get ready to whip, pipe, and glaze your way to pastry perfection in this hands-on baking class all about pâte à choux! We'll dive into the fundamentals of this versatile French dough, learning how to mix, pipe, and bake it into crisp, airy éclairs and cream puffs.
Once they’re out of the oven, the real fun begins: you’ll fill your golden shells with rich, silky pastry cream and finish them with a glossy layer of luscious chocolate ganache. Whether you’re new to baking or looking to refine your technique, this class will leave you confident in your choux skills—and with a box full of sweet showstoppers to share (or not).
Come ready to learn some pro tips and leave with treats that are très magnifique!
$99
Additional information
Check-in details
Please plan to be in class 5 minutes before class begins
Duration
2 - 2.5 Hours
What to Expect
Hands on! Let us take you on a culinary adventure, and teach you some great skills along the way.
Expect to learn what the pros keep in their pantries, and how you can turn any week night dinner into a masterpiece!
Please include any food allergies or dietary restrictions in your booking comments!
Cancellations
The Essex reserves the right to limit class sizes, revise any or all menus, substitute food items, cancel a class, change class time or location, and/or substitute instructors. If a class is cancelled, The Essex will contact the guests registered and arrange a credit or a refund. In case of inclement weather it is the responsibility of the guest to call for information regarding outdoor classes. Full refunds will be granted if cancellation is received 3 days or more prior to the cooking class or event. Exceptions may be made in cases of illness or flight delays. All cancellations must be made by phone: 802-878-1100. We will not accept email cancellation.
Chili and Cornbread
Embrace the heartwarming comfort of winter cooking in this chef-taught class dedicated to chili and cornbread, two cold-weather classics reimagined with depth and technique. Perfect for Vermont’s snowy February days, guests will learn how to build rich, layered chili flavors and bake tender, flavorful cornbread that brings balance and warmth to every bite. This cozy, satisfying class celebrates the kind of food that nourishes, comforts, and brings people together all winter long.
$129
Additional information
Check-in details
Please plan to be in class 5 minutes before class begins
Duration
2 - 3 Hours
What to Expect
Hands on! Let us take you on a culinary adventure, and teach you some great skills along the way.
Expect to learn what the pros keep in their pantries, and how you can turn any week night dinner into a masterpiece!
Please include any food allergies or dietary restrictions in your booking comments!
Cancellations
The Essex reserves the right to limit class sizes, revise any or all menus, substitute food items, cancel a class, change class time or location, and/or substitute instructors. If a class is cancelled, The Essex will contact the guests registered and arrange a credit or a refund. In case of inclement weather it is the responsibility of the guest to call for information regarding outdoor classes. Full refunds will be granted if cancellation is received 3 days or more prior to the cooking class or event. Exceptions may be made in cases of illness or flight delays. All cancellations must be made by phone: 802-878-1100. We will not accept email cancellation.
Knife Skills
Sharpen Your Skills: Knife Techniques & Stir Fry Class at The Essex Kitchen
Join us at The Essex Kitchen at The Essex Resort for a hands-on culinary experience that’s as practical as it is delicious. In this engaging knife skills class, you’ll learn essential techniques from our professional chefs—mastering the art of slicing, dicing, chopping, and julienning with precision and confidence.
Once your skills are sharpened, you’ll put them to the test by preparing a fresh, flavorful stir fry using the ingredients you've prepped. It’s the perfect blend of learning and tasting.
$99
Additional information
Check-in details
Please plan to be in class 5 minutes before class begins
Duration
2 - 2.5 Hours
What to Expect
Hands on! Let us take you on a culinary adventure, and teach you some great skills along the way.
Expect to learn what the pros keep in their pantries, and how you can turn any week night dinner into a masterpiece!
Please include any food allergies or dietary restrictions in your booking comments!
Cancellations
The Essex reserves the right to limit class sizes, revise any or all menus, substitute food items, cancel a class, change class time or location, and/or substitute instructors. If a class is cancelled, The Essex will contact the guests registered and arrange a credit or a refund. In case of inclement weather it is the responsibility of the guest to call for information regarding outdoor classes. Full refunds will be granted if cancellation is received 3 days or more prior to the cooking class or event. Exceptions may be made in cases of illness or flight delays. All cancellations must be made by phone: 802-878-1100. We will not accept email cancellation.
Italian Cucina
Italian cucina
Set the mood with the comforting elegance of Italian cucina in this chef-taught cooking class inspired by classic flavors and timeless technique. Guests will prepare lemony chicken with forty cloves of garlic, pillowy ricotta gnocchi, and conclude with a classic tiramisu. This inviting menu balances warmth, richness, and indulgence, making it a perfect culinary experience to enjoy and share.
$129
Additional information
Check-in details
Please plan to be in class 5 minutes before class begins
Duration
2.5 - 3 Hours
What to Expect
Hands on! Let us take you on a culinary adventure, and teach you some great skills along the way.
Expect to learn what the pros keep in their pantries, and how you can turn any week night dinner into a masterpiece!
Please include any food allergies or dietary restrictions in your booking comments!
Cancellations
The Essex reserves the right to limit class sizes, revise any or all menus, substitute food items, cancel a class, change class time or location, and/or substitute instructors. If a class is cancelled, The Essex will contact the guests registered and arrange a credit or a refund. In case of inclement weather it is the responsibility of the guest to call for information regarding outdoor classes. Full refunds will be granted if cancellation is received 3 days or more prior to the cooking class or event. Exceptions may be made in cases of illness or flight delays. All cancellations must be made by phone: 802-878-1100. We will not accept email cancellation.
Soft Pretzels and More
Baking Workshop
Start your Sunday with a fun, hands-on baking workshop focused on pretzels and more. Bakers of all ages will learn basic dough techniques while shaping, baking, and enjoying warm, freshly made pretzels along with additional baked treats. This relaxed, interactive class is a great way to spend a cozy morning building baking skills and enjoying fresh-from-the-oven favorites.
$99
Additional information
Check-in details
Please plan to be in class 5 minutes before class begins
Duration
2 - 2.5 Hours
What to Expect
Hands on! Let us take you on a culinary adventure, and teach you some great skills along the way.
Expect to learn what the pros keep in their pantries, and how you can turn any week night dinner into a masterpiece!
Please include any food allergies or dietary restrictions in your booking comments!
Cancellations
The Essex reserves the right to limit class sizes, revise any or all menus, substitute food items, cancel a class, change class time or location, and/or substitute instructors. If a class is cancelled, The Essex will contact the guests registered and arrange a credit or a refund. In case of inclement weather it is the responsibility of the guest to call for information regarding outdoor classes. Full refunds will be granted if cancellation is received 3 days or more prior to the cooking class or event. Exceptions may be made in cases of illness or flight delays. All cancellations must be made by phone: 802-878-1100. We will not accept email cancellation.
French Bistro
French Bistro
Step into the charm of a classic French bistro in this chef-taught cooking class inspired by timeless Parisian favorites. Guests will prepare French onion soup gratin, steak au poivre with parmesan steak frites, and finish with an elegant apple tarte Tatin. This class highlights traditional French techniques and bold, comforting flavors, offering a deliciously immersive bistro-style experience.
$129
Additional information
Check-in details
Please plan to be in class 5 minutes before class begins
Duration
2.5 - 3 Hours
What to Expect
Hands on! Let us take you on a culinary adventure, and teach you some great skills along the way.
Expect to learn what the pros keep in their pantries, and how you can turn any week night dinner into a masterpiece!
Please include any food allergies or dietary restrictions in your booking comments!
Cancellations
The Essex reserves the right to limit class sizes, revise any or all menus, substitute food items, cancel a class, change class time or location, and/or substitute instructors. If a class is cancelled, The Essex will contact the guests registered and arrange a credit or a refund. In case of inclement weather it is the responsibility of the guest to call for information regarding outdoor classes. Full refunds will be granted if cancellation is received 3 days or more prior to the cooking class or event. Exceptions may be made in cases of illness or flight delays. All cancellations must be made by phone: 802-878-1100. We will not accept email cancellation.
Savor the Love: A Couples Cooking Experience
Turn up the heat in The Essex Kitchen with a hands-on Valentine’s Day cooking class.
Turn up the heat in The Essex Kitchen with a hands-on Valentine’s Day cooking class designed for couples who love to cook together. Work side by side with partnered tasks as you create a delicious, romantic dinner to share from start to finish.
The evening’s menu features Vermont goat cheese with roasted grapes and hot honey crostini, followed by mini beef Wellingtons and lump crab cakes paired with garlic mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, and a red wine pan sauce. The class concludes with chocolate-dipped strawberries for a sweet ending to your meal.
An intimate, interactive experience meant to be savored together.
$129
Additional information
Check-in details
Please plan to be in class 5 minutes before class begins
Duration
2.5 - 3 Hours
What to Expect
Hands on! Let us take you on a culinary adventure, and teach you some great skills along the way.
Expect to learn what the pros keep in their pantries, and how you can turn any week night dinner into a masterpiece!
Please include any food allergies or dietary restrictions in your booking comments!
Cancellations
The Essex reserves the right to limit class sizes, revise any or all menus, substitute food items, cancel a class, change class time or location, and/or substitute instructors. If a class is cancelled, The Essex will contact the guests registered and arrange a credit or a refund. In case of inclement weather it is the responsibility of the guest to call for information regarding outdoor classes. Full refunds will be granted if cancellation is received 3 days or more prior to the cooking class or event. Exceptions may be made in cases of illness or flight delays. All cancellations must be made by phone: 802-878-1100. We will not accept email cancellation.
