Cocoa Black - Everything Chocolate

LOCATED IN PEEBLES, NEAR EDINBURGH (SCOTLAND), THE COCOA BLACK CHOCOLATE & PASTRY SCHOOL IS ONE OF THE WORLD'S FOREMOST ORGANISATIONS DEDICATED TO TEACHING THE SKILLS AND CREATIVITY REQUIRED TO MAKE BEAUTIFUL CHOCOLATES, CAKES AND PATISSERIE.  WINNER OF 'CONFECTIONER OF THE YEAR' (2011), COCOA BLACK OFFERS THE WIDEST RANGE OF SHORT CHOCOLATE MAKING AND PASTRY CHEF CLASSES AVAILABLE IN THE UK.

The Cocoa Black Chocolate & Pastry School offers courses for anyone with an interest in creating indulgent treats.  From beginner chocolate classes and beginner pastry classes which teach the basics, to our more intensive professional courses, you will find something for everyone.  The Chocolate & Pastry School regularly attracts participants from around the world and in 2009 was designated a 4-star visitor attraction (excellent) by VisitScotland.  Classes are short (half day to two days) allowing you to progress in a way which suits your schedule and learning preferences.  The Chocolate School also offers children’s chocolate classes and private group classes which are proving popular for corporate entertainment and hen parties.  Watch a chocolate class. 

Essential Information on the Chocolate Classes

Whether you are interested in chocolate truffle making or wish to learn how to create beautiful chocolate sculptures, the Chocolate & Pastry School is the place to come.  The school adopts a highly successful approach to teaching involving a strong practical element.  Each chocolate class teaches a specific set of skills.  Chocolate school classes are categorised based upon their complexity.  Chocolate School classes are modular meaning that they can be taken either as an individual chocolate workshop or as part of a longer chocolate making course.  This flexibility allows Chocolate School participants to progress through the chocolate classes in a way which suits their schedule and learning preferences.

Essential Information on the Pastry Classes

Come to the Cocoa Black Chocolate & Pastry school and let our pastry chefs guide and inspire you.  The School offers exposure to the very best and latest pastry techniques, equipment and ingredients.  Whether you want to unlock the secrets of the French gateau or learn a new dessert for your next dinner party, you will find a pastry school class to suit.  All Pastry School classes have been developed by Cocoa Black’s world class pastry chef and chocolatier Ruth Hinks.  Pastry School classes are modular meaning you can progress as your skills develop. Beginner pastry chef courses require no prior experience (you will be amazed at what you can create with a little expert help) whilst professional pastry chef courses develop existing skills to a professional level. Over the past two years the Pastry School has developed a highly successful approach to skills teaching.  Each class teaches a specific set of skills which incorporate the best modern and classical techniques.  Pastry School classes contain a strong practical element allowing you to put into practice the skills taught in each class.  Many people come to the Pastry School as complete beginners looking for an enjoyable day out.  Others have set their sights on developing their skills to professional or even competition level.  Whatever your culinary ambitions, the Cocoa Black Pastry School is here to help.  You will progress as far and as fast as your ability allows.

What to Expect at the Chocolate & Pastry School

A trip to the Cocoa Black Chocolate and Pastry School is no dry academic endeavour.  The Pastry School is a shared experience that gives joy and satisfaction to like minded individuals who enjoy creating indulgent chocolate treats, patisserie and desserts.  Upon arrival at the School, one of the first things you will notice is the aroma of fresh coffee and patisserie.  There is a seating area overlooking the kitchen where you will meet fellow attendees and enjoy a relaxing coffee before the class begins.  You will be welcomed by one of our chefs who will explain the class plan.  At your workstation you will be provided with all of the equipment and ingredients you will require for your class.  The chocolate & Pastry School strives to create an enjoyable learning experience during which you are encouraged to discuss techniques with your fellow Pastry School participants and class tutor.  Your tutor will be on hand at all times to answer questions and guide you throughout.  At the end of each class you are free to take away what you have made for your enjoyment at home.  You will also have the opportunity to purchase any equipment and ingredients should you wish to develop your skills further.

To Book your Class

Chocolate & Pastry School classes can be booked by individuals or groups.  Simply select which class you wish to attend, choose a date and proceed through checkout.   If there is no availability or you wish to book a private group chocolate class, please contact us.  If you want to gift a Chocolate & Pastry School class but are unsure of which chocolate class to choose, chocolate gift cards are available which can be redeemed against any Chocolate School class.

Testimonials

“A visit to Cocoa Black for one of their excellent short chocolate classes is a must.  The Chocolate & Pastry School has been offering chocolate classes since 2008.  Students on their chocolate classes include people of all ages and of all capabilities from those who simply have a sweet tooth, to serious chefs who wish to develop their skills in this field.  My wife and I recently spent a splendid and informative afternoon at the Chocolate & Pastry School learning how the beans are grown, selected and made into the finest chocolate before getting stuck into making chocolates of our own design.  We came away with an abundance of delicious treats, a workbook of chocolate making recipes to try and a great deal of knowledge with which to impress our dinner party guest.  I thoroughly recommend that you visit the Cocoa Black Chocolate School soon.  It is fun, informative and above all delicious.  Far too good an attraction just to save for a rainy day”  (Paul, Innerleithen)

“My friend and I enjoyed an afternoon of French pastry making at the Cocoa Black Chocolate & Pastry School.  The standard of teaching was excellent throughout.  I thought I would struggle in places but managed to produce some beautiful cakes that my family was really impressed with.  I will definitely be back to the Pastry School to do some of their other courses.”  (June, Edinburgh)