Learn the art of traditional sourdough bread

If you’re curious about how to turn simple ingredients into a loaf with character and flavor, this sourdough bread workshop in Scottsdale might be just what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally done this particular experience, it’s designed to be a cozy, approachable introduction to the craft of sourdough baking—and it promises plenty of hands-on fun and tasty results.

What we find especially appealing about this experience is the chance to meet a 19-year-old sourdough starter, which adds a genuine touch of tradition and patience that goes into creating great bread. Plus, the workshop includes tasting fresh bread with dips—a simple but satisfying reward for your efforts. On the flip side, some travelers might find the price ($150) slightly steep if they’re just looking for a casual tasting, but for those eager to learn a skill that’s both practical and rewarding, the value is clear.

This experience is perfect for food lovers, DIY enthusiasts, or anyone wanting to understand the process behind artisan bread. If you’re traveling with friends or family who enjoy baking or are keen to bring home a new culinary skill, this workshop offers an engaging way to connect and learn.

Key Points

• Hands-on learning: You’ll actively participate in mixing, folding, and shaping dough.
• Authentic sourdough: The workshop features a 19-year-old starter, representing decades of baking tradition.
• Tasty reward: Enjoy fresh sourdough bread with dips — a simple pleasure that’s part of the experience.
• Take-home dough: Leave with your own prepared dough to bake later at home.
• Expert guidance: The instructor provides clear instructions on troubleshooting and baking at home.
• Private tour: The experience is exclusive to your group, offering personalized attention.

What to Expect from the Sourdough Workshop

The 2-hour experience kicks off with a welcome drink, setting a relaxed tone for the session. It’s a nice touch that helps break the ice and makes everyone feel comfortable. From there, the instructor introduces you to the sourdough starter—a 19-year-old mix that embodies years of baking history. This isn’t just a starter; it’s a living, breathing part of the process, and learning about its care and quirks adds depth to the experience.

Once acquainted, you’ll move on to mixing the dough. Watching and participating as flour, water, and starter come together is surprisingly satisfying. The instructor emphasizes feeling the dough—an essential skill in bread-making—so you might find yourself appreciating the tactile nature of bread baking. “We loved the way the instructor explained the process so clearly,” shares a recent review, highlighting how accessible and encouraging the guidance was, even for beginners.

Next, you’ll practice stretch and fold techniques that strengthen the dough. These motions may seem simple but are vital for developing the bread’s structure. The instructor demonstrates these techniques patiently, and you’ll get to try your hand at it—an excellent opportunity to understand how gluten develops without kneading.

Shaping the loaf is the final step before proofing. Learning how to form your dough into a smooth round and place it into a proofing basket makes you feel like a real artisan baker. When your bread is ready, you’ll enjoy a tasting session of the freshly baked loaf paired with dips, which perfectly illustrates the flavor and texture you’ve just helped create.

The instructor also shares tips on baking sourdough at home and troubleshooting common issues. This practical advice adds significant value, especially for those eager to replicate the experience later in their own kitchen.

Finally, you’ll leave with your own dough to bake at home. Everything is measured and prepared during the workshop, so you’re equipped to continue your sourdough journey with confidence.

Meeting Points and Accessibility

The workshop starts and ends in Scottsdale, AZ, making it convenient for travelers staying nearby. It’s booked as a private experience, meaning your group gets personalized attention, which enhances the learning process. The tour is suitable for anyone, including those with service animals, and is located near public transportation, easing access for visitors without private transportation.

Analyzing the Value

At $150 per person, this experience might seem premium—especially considering it’s a 2-hour class. But when you factor in the expert guidance, the access to a rare 19-year-old starter, and the tangible skills you gain, the cost becomes more justifiable. It’s an opportunity to acquire a craft that many find both relaxing and rewarding, plus the ability to bake authentic sourdough bread at home.

The workshop’s focus on troubleshooting and home baking tips means you’re not just learning a recipe but gaining a skill you can practice long after the class ends. This practical focus elevates the experience beyond a simple tasting or demonstration, making it especially appealing to those who want a hands-on, educational activity.

Authenticity and Experience Details

The instructor’s approach appears approachable and thorough, with reviews praising how clearly they explained each step. The feeling of connection with the starter and the tactile experience of working with dough make this workshop memorable. The tasting session offers a delightful, multisensory experience, allowing you to appreciate the fruits of your labor immediately.

Group size is limited to your private group, promoting a personalized learning environment. The total duration of around two hours is ideal for fitting into a busy travel schedule, and the mobile ticket system adds convenience.

Who Should Consider This?

This workshop suits food travelers eager to deepen their culinary skills, baking enthusiasts looking for a new challenge, or families and groups wanting a fun, interactive activity. It’s especially appealing if you’re interested in traditional baking techniques, artisan bread, or learning from a seasoned baker with a decades-old starter.

It’s a great choice if you want a practical takeaway—dough to bake later—and an engaging, memorable experience rather than just a passive tasting.

The Sum Up

If you’re after a hands-on, authentic baking experience in Scottsdale, this sourdough workshop offers more than just bread. It’s a chance to connect with a centuries-old tradition, learn from a knowledgeable guide, and leave with skills you can use long after the session ends. The personalized nature, combined with the direct involvement in shaping and understanding bread, makes it a worthwhile investment for curious food lovers and dedicated home bakers.

While the price might seem high at first glance, the value lies in the expertise and the tangible skills gained. Plus, you get to enjoy tasting some of the freshest sourdough bread around. This experience is best suited for those who genuinely want to learn, experiment, and bring home a practical skill that’s deeply satisfying.

Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or part of a group, the warmth and authenticity of this workshop make it a memorable part of your Scottsdale journey.

FAQ

What is included in the price of $150 per person?
The fee covers the 2-hour hands-on workshop, your tasting of freshly baked sourdough with dips, and your own dough to take home and bake later.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s exclusive to your group, which allows for personalized instruction and a relaxed atmosphere.

Are there any accessibility accommodations?
The experience is near public transportation, and service animals are allowed, making it accessible to most visitors.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s recommended to book about 13 days in advance to secure your spot, as demand appears steady.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience. Cancellations less than 24 hours in advance are non-refundable.

What should I bring or wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for working with dough, and an eager attitude to learn and get hands dirty.

This sourdough workshop in Scottsdale offers a practical, authentic chance to understand and create one of the most beloved types of bread. Perfect for a memorable culinary outing, it’s a great way to add a new skill and taste the satisfaction of baking your own sourdough.