Paris: Bake Madeleines and take them home with you

Trying to find a genuine taste of Paris that goes beyond just sightseeing? This hands-on baking class focusing on madeleines offers a charming peek into French culinary traditions, all within a cozy Parisian apartment. From the moment you step into the instructor’s warmly decorated kitchen on rue Sainte-Anne, you’re welcomed into an authentic, intimate setting that promises more than just a recipe—it’s about experiencing Parisian life through its sweet treats.

What truly sets this experience apart? The personalized attention in a small group (limited to 2 participants), professional-grade equipment used during the class, and the chance to bring home your baked madeleines to share or enjoy later. Plus, the included tips on Paris patisserie and local attractions help turn a simple cooking class into a well-rounded cultural snippet.

One thing to keep in mind: the activity involves walking up five floors without an elevator, so it’s less suitable for travelers with mobility concerns. But if you’re up for a bit of exercise, the effort is well worth it for the delightful reward of freshly baked madeleines and local insights.

This experience appeals most to those craving a personalized, authentic slice of Parisian life—especially food lovers, baking enthusiasts, and anyone eager to learn new skills while exploring a vibrant neighborhood.

Good To Know

• Intimate group size ensures personalized instruction and attention.
• Authentic Parisian setting on rue Sainte-Anne, near major landmarks.
• All necessary equipment and supplies provided, no need to bring anything.
• Take-home madeleines are packaged securely, ideal for sharing or enjoying later.
• Includes recipes and photos so you can recreate the magic at home.
• Expert guidance from Emmanuel Rieul, who is praised for his kindness and clarity.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Location and Setting

The class is held in a Parisian apartment on rue Sainte-Anne, a street famous for its Japanese restaurants and lively atmosphere, situated conveniently between the Louvre and the Opera. This makes it a perfect addition to a day of sightseeing—just a short walk from major attractions and the Galerie Vivienne, which provides a charming spot to enjoy your freshly baked madeleines afterwards.

The apartment is on the 5th floor, accessible by stairs, which adds a bit of a workout but also maintains its authentic, traditional Parisian charm. Once inside, the space feels warm and inviting, with a fully equipped kitchen ready for baking. The owner, Emmanuel Rieul, greets guests personally, making the entire experience feel friendly and welcoming.

The Class Structure and Content

Duration: 1 hour – a manageable, focused session perfect for busy travelers or those wanting a quick but meaningful culinary experience.

What’s included? All kitchen tools and supplies, from mixing bowls to special madeleine molds, are provided. Emmanuel guides you through the process, with options to customize your bake—such as adding chocolate or other flavor variations.

The lesson: You’ll learn how to make authentic French madeleines from scratch, including tips on batter consistency and baking times. Emmanuel shares insights on patisserie techniques and the history behind the classic shell-shaped cake.

Recipe and Photos: After baking, you’ll receive a printed recipe in your preferred language (English or French) and photos of your finished masterpieces—great keepsakes and useful for recreating the treats at home.

Tasting and sightseeing: Once baked, your madeleines are packed in a box, ready for you to enjoy later or bring back as souvenirs. You’re encouraged to walk just two minutes to the Galerie Vivienne for a leisurely snack or to continue exploring Paris.

The Personal Touch and Authentic Experience

Guests consistently note how Emmanuel’s kindness and clarity enhanced their experience. Nadia from the US mentioned, “Chef Emmanuel was so kind and accommodating,” adding that the class was “great.” Tatiana from Russia appreciated how everything was clear and interesting, feeling comfortable navigating the apartment and the process.

The small group size (max 2 people) allows for tailored guidance, ensuring you don’t feel rushed or lost. Emmanuel’s bilingual instruction (English and French) makes it accessible for international visitors, and his expertise helps clarify every step, turning baking into a fun, educational activity.

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Practical Details That Matter

Price: At $57 per person, the class offers an excellent value considering the personalized instruction, all ingredients, and the delicious baked goods you take home. Compared to other culinary experiences, it provides a tangible skill and keepsake rather than just a demonstration.

Timing: Check available start times—most sessions last about an hour. The flexibility to reserve now and pay later adds convenience, especially if you’re planning a busy Paris itinerary.

Accessibility: Be aware of the five-floor climb without an elevator—this might be a consideration for some travelers.

Cancellation policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance makes it a risk-free option for spontaneous plans or uncertain schedules.

Why This Experience Works

This class offers a cozy, authentic taste of Parisian living, far from the hustle of tourist-packed bakeries. The small group setting ensures you’ll get plenty of individual attention, making it ideal for first-timers or seasoned home bakers alike. Learning directly from Emmanuel, who is praised for his knowledgeable and friendly approach, means you’ll leave with confidence to make madeleines at home—and with a handful of tips for exploring local patisseries.

The opportunity to walk to Galerie Vivienne afterward means you can savor your baked treats amidst Paris’s historic covered passages, blending culinary delight with cultural exploration. Plus, having recipes and photos ensures you can replicate your newfound skills long after your trip.

The Authenticity and Value

Compared to other baking classes that may be more generic or large-group, this experience emphasizes personalized instruction and genuine local ambiance. At roughly $57, it provides a hands-on, memorable activity that combines learning, tasting, and exploring – excellent value for those seeking a meaningful cultural activity.

Who Should Book This?

If you’re a food lover eager to learn a classic French pastry, this class is perfect. It’s also well-suited for couples or small groups wanting a private experience in a friendly environment. Travelers who enjoy cultural insights alongside hands-on activities will appreciate the tips on local patisserie and attractions. Note that if stairs are an issue, you might want to consider this before booking.

Final Thoughts

This Madeleines baking class in Paris offers more than just a recipe; it’s a chance to step into a real Parisian apartment, learn from a warm, experienced guide, and take home something sweet and authentic. The focus on personalized guidance and the beautiful neighborhood location makes it a standout choice for curious travelers wanting a tangible, tasty memory of Paris.

The experience is especially valuable for those who enjoy learning new culinary skills and want a personalized, intimate activity that complements their sightseeing adventures. Plus, the opportunity to explore nearby attractions like the Palais Royal Gardens or Opera Garnier afterward adds extra layers of enjoyment.

This class is a delightful blend of culture, cuisine, and personal touch—a true highlight for anyone eager to bring a piece of Paris into their kitchen.

FAQ

Is this class suitable for beginners?
Yes, the class is designed to be accessible for all skill levels, with clear guidance from Emmanuel.

Are ingredients included?
Absolutely. All food items needed for the madeleines are provided, so you just need to show up ready to bake.

Can I customize the flavor of the madeleines?
Yes, there are options to include chocolate or other flavorings during the class.

Is there a minimum age requirement?
Participants should be older than 3 years, as children under that aren’t suitable for the activity.

How do I find the meeting point?
You meet in front of the building door on rue Sainte-Anne, where Emmanuel will greet you personally.

Is there parking nearby?
While not specified, the location is within a busy central Paris neighborhood, so public transportation or walking might be more convenient.

How long before the class should I arrive?
It’s best to arrive at the start time; Emmanuel’s team is punctual and ready to begin on schedule.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Will I get to eat my madeleines during the class?
You will bake and take home your madeleines in a box, so you can enjoy them later, but tasting during the class isn’t explicitly mentioned.

What language is the instruction in?
Guidance is available in both English and French, ensuring clarity regardless of your language preference.

In summary, if you’re looking for a fun, intimate, and authentic way to connect with Parisian culture through its most iconic pastry, this madeleine baking class delivers. It’s a perfect choice for food lovers, couples, or anyone eager to take a small but meaningful culinary step into Parisian life.

You can check if your dates are available here: