Private Chocolate Classes
Portland Chocolate Classes crafted for chocolate lovers, home chefs, and fun gatherings
With over 20 years of experience in chocolate, I’ve helped small chocolate companies perfect their recipes, refine their sourcing, and grow into thriving brands. My heart lies with ceremonial cacao and ethically sourced, high-quality white bean cacao, but I also bring a deep background in classic chocolate making to my teaching.
From a French Laundry internship to my work as Head Chocolatier at Pearl Bakery, Pitch Dark Chocolates, and Creo Chocolates, my approach to Portland Chocolate Classes incorporates artistry, precision, and reverence for cacao.
I’ve taught Portland Chocolate Classes at events like Portland Chocolate Mob, Choctoberfest, and curated wine and chocolate pairings in partnership with vineyards like Quenett Winery and Lang Winery.
Why Take a Chocolate Class?
Whether you’re:
Planning a unique date night
Looking for a creative birthday experience
A home chef wanting to master chocolate making
Or searching for new inspiration for handmade holiday gifts
my private Portland chocolate classes are hands-on, informative, and delicious.
I offer private sessions and small group gatherings, tailoring each class to your needs and skill level. With a warm teaching style and deep respect for chocolate's origins, you'll connect to the story and spirit behind every bite.
“My one-on-one class with Teresa was a masterclass in chocolate making. She was guiding me on a personal journey into this intricate world. We began by tasting chocolate, and she helped me discern its complex flavors. Then, she taught me how to select cacao beans, emphasizing how their origin and quality shape the final creation.
Teresa excelled at blending the art and science of chocolate. She demystified roasting, showing me how to fine-tune recipes to unlock hidden notes. We then did deshelling and grinding, transforming beans into smooth chocolate, followed by the magic of tempering and molding.
Beyond the technical, Teresa ignited my creativity. She taught me artistic techniques for bonbons and truffles and opened my mind to innovative fillings. My class wasn't just about recipes; it was about exploration and invention.
Teresa is more than a great teacher; she's an inspiration. She empowers students to create, make, and explore the boundless possibilities of chocolate. My experience with her truly transformed me into a confident chocolatier.”
-Vishnu,
Chocolatier
Tempering 101
We’ll explore different methods of tempering: seeding, tabliering, and the newest methods in the world of chocolate. Learn to keep your temper and create chocolate with a nice 'shine' and 'snap'. A must if planning to make truffles for the holidays or new to chocolate chemistry.
When: Available for private lessons - a 3 hour class
Cost: $250 for 1 or 2 people ($75 extra per person for larger classes)
Use the form below to schedule
Truffle Decoration 101
We’ll explore a variety of techniques to decorate truffles: piping chocolate, using gold leaf and luster dusts, painting molds and truffles, how to apply cocoa butter transfer sheets and make your own.
When: Available for private lessons - a 3 hour class
Cost: $250 for 1 or 2 people ($75 extra per person for larger classes)
Use the form below to schedule
Ganache Fillings 101
We’ll explore the many ways to make chocolate truffle fillings and the chemistry behind mastering a ‘super smooth’ ganache. Learn new techniques and tips that will prevent a ‘gritty mouthfeel’ and take the confusion out of fillings.
When: Available for private lessons - a 3 hour class
Cost: $250 for 1 or 2 people ($75 extra per person for larger classes)
Use the form below to schedule
Bean to Bar - Cacao 101
We’ll discuss bean sourcing options, how to evaluate the quality of cocoa beans, and setup roasting profiles. Practice roasting in a convection oven and a drum roaster. Learn different methods to crack and winnow your beans.
Great for those new to chocolate making!.
When: Available for private lessons - a 3 hour class
Cost: $250 for 1 or 2 people ($75 extra per person for larger classes)
Use the form below to schedule