Breads & Pastry Certification

By the end of the program, students will be equipped with professional knowledge and a versatile skill set to succeed in today’s fast-growing culinary industry.

Each week of this immersive course focuses on a different area of baking and pastry:

• UNITS 1-4: Foundational Skills

• Topics: Principles of the bakeshop, food safety, knife skills, and the art of quick and yeast breads.
• Skills Gained: Students develop a solid foundation, learning the essentials of sanitation, baking processes, and the science behind gluten and leavening agents.

• UNITS 5-7: Desserts & Pastry Techniques
  
  • Topics: Creating pies, pastries, cookies, cakes, and frostings.
  • Skills Gained: Explore a variety of mixing and baking methods, decorating techniques, and an introduction to classic and modern dessert styles.

• UNITS 8-9: Nutrition and Special Diets
  
  • Topics: Preserving fruits, creating desserts for special diets, and understanding nutritional needs.
  • Skills Gained: Learn how to adapt baking methods to health-conscious and dietary-specific recipes, ideal for today’s diverse culinary landscape.

• UNITS 10-11: Display & International Pastries
  
  • Topics: Presenting pastries and breads for retail and catering, and exploring global dessert recipes.
  • Skills Gained: Develop presentation techniques for restaurant-quality displays and explore recipes from around the world, enhancing versatility and cultural knowledge.

• UNIT 12: Final Practical Exam
  
  • Exam Overview: Students will showcase their skills by creating individually plated desserts and a collaborative buffet-style display, bringing together everything they’ve learned throughout the course.

Metropolitan Culinary Arts Institute is dedicated to providing accessible, high-quality education in a supportive environment. With small class sizes and an entirely hands-on approach, our program ensures each student receives personalized guidance, preparing them to thrive in the fast-paced culinary world. MCAI is SCHEV-certified and ACF-approved, meaning our curriculum meets the highest industry standards.

If you’re ready to take the first step toward a fulfilling career in baking, apply to our Breads and Pastry Program. Gain the skills, confidence, and professional knowledge to succeed as a baker or pastry chef in today’s foodservice industry. Book a Tour!

Our cooking school features a state-of-the-art kitchen that is equipped with everything you need to create delicious meals. You'll have access to top-of-the-line appliances, cookware, and utensils.

Our cooking classes are not only educational, but also fun and social. You'll meet other food enthusiasts and have the opportunity to share your passion for cooking.