Do I need to have any baking or chocolate experience ?
Not at all ! All courses are aimed at beginners who are enthusiastic about learning new skills.
Where are the courses held ?
All courses are held at the Cocoa & Heart Bakery and you can find the location and directions to the venue here.
How do you run your courses ?
Our courses are run in small groups to make sure you get the most out of your day. There is a maximum of 3 people in the group to allow plenty of space for everyone to work in. The courses are run in a domestic setting to help you recreate the environment you have in your own home.
Do I make my own bread or chocolates?
Yes, absolutely! That's why you are here! Each person has their own work station and the session always includes practical demonstration of the recipe, before you go ahead and make your own. Sometimes we work as a group for some of the tasks in the course - for instance at our salted caramel truffles course we work as group to produce a batch of freshly made salted caramel. That's because it needs to be made in a big batch and there is plenty to share with everyone. Afterwards you make your own salted caramel truffles and take home everything we made in the class.
Who will run the courses ?
All courses are run by Magdalena Marsden - the owner of Cocoa & Heart and an experienced baker and chocolate maker. Magdalena has been making her own bread for more then 18 years now and has hands on experience of working in large artisan bakeries. She has been perfecting her chocolate truffles for more then a decade and they are always popular at local markets. She also teaches chocolate making skills for external companies.
You are welcome to book directly on our website - just select the course you like, date and process your payment through our on-line payment system. We take major debit and credit cards. We also take bookings over the phone and can process your payment at the same time.
All refreshments are provided. Tea or coffee and handmade biscuits or cakes are always at hand and for our day and 3/4 day courses (10-2.30pm) light lunch is also provided. This gives you the opportunity to sample some of our handbaked bread complimented with pate, cheese or various sandwich fillers.
I have a special dietary requirements, do you cater for these ?
Yes, of course. Just let us know, when booking your course and we will make sure, we cater for your special diet as best we can.
How am I going to remember all the recipes and tips shared on the course ?
There is always so much to take in, isn't there? That is why, we have designed a course information pack, which accompanies each course. It includes all the recipes used on the day, helpful tips and ideas how to take your baking or chocolate making further when you return back home. We also include a list of suppliers and on-line contacts. We have these ready for you when you arrive, so that you can take notes and add comments as we go through the course.
I'm looking for a present for a friend, but not sure which course is best. Can I buy Gift Vouchers ?
Yes, we have a range of Gift Vouchers starting from £15. These can be personalised and sent via post or e-mail. Our Gift Vouchers have 12 months expiry date, so you can be sure your friends will be able to pick the perfect course for them.
We are a group of 3 friends and can't make any of the advertised dates. Can you help ?
Yes, of course, just contact us with your preferred date and the type of course you would like to do.
What if I can't make the course I'm booked on ?
Unfortunately, we are unable to refund your course fee, but we are happy for you to send a replacement in your place. If you are unable to arrange a replacement for yourselves, we may be able to re-book you to another date. You can find out our full Terms & Conditions here.