Best on-line pastry programs (non-degreed)

[AaronPD]

Our son has a learning disability and consequently it takes him longer to learn what he needs to know to pursue his passion for baking. He is pursuing a certificate at a local community college, and has worked part-time at a well regarded bakery for the last two years. However, he has slower than average processing speed (a language based learning disability) and while he is flawless when given a recipe to follow, he has trouble remembering multi-part verbal instructions. He asked me to find an on-line curricuulum he can use to bolster his skills. We have the French Pastry School Butter book, but that is less a curriculum than a reference. Thanks!

 

[Norcalbaker59]

Not online school per se because you really can’t teach a baking online.

Baking must be learned hands-on.

The San Francisco Baking Institute (SFBI) has a series of videos to demonstrate the fundamentals of baking.

It’s probably the most affordable way to learn the basics online.

Butter Book is for home bakers, not for professionals. It’s good, but still geared towards home baking. And they make up their own terminology. For example, they have some oddball name for Desired Dough Temperature (DDT).

DDT is standard procedure in every bakery. If he used the odd name Butter Book uses, No one will know what the heck he’s talking about.

San Francisco Baking Institute was founded by Michel Suas. Just google him-he is legend in the bakery business.


SFBI had a textbook by Suas as well.

Online Courses – San Francisco Baking Institute

sfbi.com

 

[AaronPD]

Not online school per se because you really can’t teach a baking online.

Baking must be learned hands-on.

The San Francisco Baking Institute (SFBI) has a series of videos to demonstrate the fundamentals of baking.

It’s probably the most affordable way to learn the basics online.

Butter Book is for home bakers, not for professionals. It’s good, but still geared towards home baking. And they make up their own terminology. For example, they have some oddball name for Desired Dough Temperature (DDT).

DDT is standard procedure in every bakery. If he used the odd name Butter Book uses, No one will know what the heck he’s talking about.

San Francisco Baking Institute was founded by Michel Suas. Just google him-he is legend in the bakery business.


SFBI had a textbook by Suas as well.

Online Courses – San Francisco Baking Institute

sfbi.com

Thank you so much!

 

[Mona]

For your son, online pastry programs with visual and step-by-step instructions could be very helpful. Try checking out MasterClass for Dominique Ansel's course, Udemy for various baking classes, or America’s Test Kitchen for detailed tutorials. YouTube channels like Tasty or Bigger Bolder Baking also offer excellent visual guides. These resources should complement his current studies and provide the clear, detailed instructions he needs.

 

[Jessie_Roos]

It sounds like your son is really dedicated to pursuing his passion for baking, and it’s great that he has the support and resources to help him along the way. Given his situation, finding an online program that suits his learning style and needs could be a big help.

Here are a few online pastry programs and resources that might be beneficial:

1. The Great Courses – “The Art of Cooking: Techniques for the Home Chef”: While not pastry-specific, this course offers a comprehensive approach to cooking techniques that can be very useful. The visual and step-by-step nature might be beneficial for him.
2. MasterClass – “Thomas Keller Teaches Cooking Techniques”: Thomas Keller’s MasterClass offers detailed videos and insights into professional cooking techniques. The visual learning aspect might help him better grasp multi-step processes.
3. Udemy – “Pastry Fundamentals”: Udemy has various baking courses, including ones focused on pastry fundamentals. These courses often include video demonstrations and written instructions, which could be helpful for him.
4. Tasty – Baking Courses: Tasty offers a variety of baking courses and videos that break down recipes into clear, step-by-step instructions. The visual format could be very useful for his learning style.
5. YouTube – Channels like “Preppy Kitchen” and “Bigger Bolder Baking”: These channels offer detailed video tutorials on a wide range of baking topics. The step-by-step visuals and clear instructions might align well with his learning needs.

Since he excels with written recipes, it might also be useful to have resources that provide both visual and written instructions. Combining these with the practical experience he’s already getting could make a big difference.

I hope this helps, and best of luck to your son in his baking journey!

 

[Mona]

That’s wonderful to hear about your son’s passion for baking! It sounds like he’s already making great strides with his certificate program and experience at the bakery. For online pastry programs, there are a few options that might be particularly helpful for him, considering his learning style:

1. MasterClass: They offer a range of baking classes, including those by renowned chefs. The video format allows him to watch and rewatch instructions at his own pace, which might help reinforce his learning.
2. Udemy: This platform has a variety of pastry courses, often broken down into short, digestible sections. He can select classes that focus on specific skills or techniques, making it easier to follow along.
3. The Great Courses Plus: They offer cooking and baking courses that can be accessed anytime. The structured format with video content can help with visual learning.
4. King Arthur Baking Company: They have excellent resources, including free online classes. Their baking guides and recipes are very detailed, which might help him as he practices.
5. YouTube: While not a formal curriculum, many professional bakers and pastry chefs share detailed tutorials. He can pause and rewind as needed, making it easier for him to absorb information.

Encourage him to take his time with these resources, focusing on what interests him most. It's great that he has your support in this journey! If you have any more specific needs or questions, feel free to ask. Happy baking!