October 15, 2026
Pictured: Instructor Maricela Gonzalez at a local Farmer’s Market
Sourdough conjures up images of rustic loaves of bread, slathered with melting butter, perhaps freshly purchased at the local farmer’s market. But did you know sourdough has moved well beyond the traditional loaf? These days, it’s finding its way into all kinds of delicious creations – and everyone seems to be jumping on the sourdough bandwagon, from pop stars to Spider-Man himself!
Now, you can get in on the fun too! Palatine Park District is offering a series of hands-on sourdough classes led by professional baker Maricela Gonzalez. Whether you’re a seasoned home baker or just curious about the sourdough craze, these classes offer a chance to explore creative new ways to put this versatile ingredient to work. The lineup includes Sourdough Pasta, Candied Pecans, Sourdough Coffee Cake, and Sourdough Holiday Scones.
“I think sourdough has become so popular because it brings people back to the basics of cooking and baking,” Gonzalez said. “There’s something special about creating food from simple ingredients and learning a traditional skill that has been passed down through generations. People are also becoming more interested in knowing what goes into their food and enjoying homemade alternatives to store-bought products. Once you understand the basics, you can experiment with different flavors, grains, breads, and even pasta.”
Sourdough Pasta from Scratch – October 24
First up is the Sourdough Pasta Class on Saturday October 24. That’s right, sourdough pasta! “Our sourdough pasta class is a hands-on experience where students learn how to make fresh pasta from scratch using both traditional pasta-making techniques and sourdough discard,” Gonzalez explained.
Sourdough discard? If you’re wondering what that is, you’ll have a chance to find out! Gonzalez will guide participants through mixing, preparing, and working with the dough, sharing tips for achieving the right texture and consistency along the way. Students will also learn how to handle their ingredients and tools with confidence so they can recreate the experience in their own kitchens.
Everyone will take home individual bags of flour, the tools used during class, including a pasta board and cutter, and a special recipe to get started on their next homemade pasta adventure.
“My goal is for everyone to leave feeling comfortable with the process and excited to make fresh pasta in their own kitchen!” Gonzalez said.
Sourdough Candied Pecans – October 29
On Thursday, October 29, it’s time to satisfy your sweet tooth with Sourdough Candied Pecans.
In this interactive workshop, participants will learn how to use a sourdough-based coating to create perfectly caramelized candied pecans with a rich, balanced sweetness and a crisp finish. Gonzalez will cover everything from mixing and coating techniques to baking for even caramelization. She’ll also share tips for storing and packaging the pecans, making them perfect for holiday gifts.
Each participant will prepare their own batch, enjoy a tasting during class, and take home a container of freshly made candied pecans, along with the recipe and step-by-step instructions for recreating the treat at home.
Sourdough Coffee Cake – November 21
Who can resist a slice of coffee cake, especially when it’s homemade? Mark your calendar for Saturday, November 21, just in time for the holiday season. Sourdough coffee cake combines the comforting flavors of a tender, moist vanilla-or butter-based cake with the subtle taste of sourdough starter or discard. The finishing touch? A buttery cinnamon-sugar streusel or crumb topping that makes this classic treat even more irresistible. It’s a delicious way to discover another side of sourdough, and perhaps find a new favorite to serve at breakfast, brunch, or your next holiday gathering.
Sourdough Holiday Scones – December 12
The sourdough fun continues on Saturday, December 12, with Sourdough Holiday Scones. Just in time for the festive season, these seasonal treats feature a tempting combination of eggnog, white chocolate, and peppermint. Whether served alongside a warm cup of coffee or wrapped up as a homemade holiday gift, these scones offer a creative way to bring sourdough into your seasonal baking traditions.
More Than a Recipe: Skills You Can Take Home
All of Gonzalez’s classes are designed to be hands-on, educational experiences that give participants practical skills they can continue using long after the class ends. “Students receive guided instruction and recipes, work through each step themselves, and have plenty of opportunities to ask questions and learn techniques they can confidently practice at home.
As the weather turns colder, there’s no better time to discover a new indoor hobby. Whether you’re rolling out pasta, making a sweet treat, or preparing something special for the holidays, these classes offer a fun and rewarding way to get creative in the kitchen.
Ready to give sourdough a try? Explore the possibilities, learn something new, and bring home the skills and inspiration to keep creating.
Register for a Palatine Park District sourdough class today!
