
What You'll Learn
By the end of the class, you will:
- Be able to prepare even cake layers
- Know how to frost a smooth cake
- Apply professional pastry techniques to “crumb coat” and decorate a birthday cake
About This Class
Expert baker or not, everyone should be able to nail one killer birthday cake from scratch.
The best birthday cakes start with a recipe for moist, flavorful cake- not complicated, and reliable every time. The next step is having a filling and a frosting you can vary with whichever flavors you like, and being able to create a few even layers finished with some celebratory embellishments.
This isn’t a wedding cake – we’re not talking fondant or multi-tiers here. Instead envision rainbow sprinkles, piped frosting, drizzled icing, or chopped nuts. We will show you how to bake it, fill it, frost it, and decorate it so you go home with not only your finished cake but the skills to bake celebration cakes anytime.
Menu
You will bake and decorate a birthday cake from scratch
Details
- Wine included
- Light meal served in class
- Suitable for vegetarians
- Ages 18+
FAQ
The average duration of our current cooking classes is 2 hours, which is predominately hands-on work. You will be standing for the majority of class, cooking at your work station as your instructor demonstrates techniques and walks around providing individual feedback.
Due to COVID-19 regulations, we can not have students congregate in the building before class starts. Doors will open 5 minutes prior to class starting and we will begin promptly on time. Students will be asked to queue up outside the door of the school, safely distanced (sidewalks are clearly marked) and will be let in the school just before class begins.
Please arrive at the school with your own mask on. You will be given a new, disposable mask to wear in class to ensure what you have on hasn’t been contaminated prior to entering SFCS. We will have extras available should you need one while at school.
Wear comfortable clothes and close-toed shoes (remember, you’ll be on your feet cooking). The kitchens at SFCS are fully equipped with everything else you need, including clean aprons.
Due to COVID-19 regulations, we will not be serving food or drinks during class, We will, however, be sending you home with both ingredients and finished food items so you can enjoy them later, and practice as well.
Wear casual clothing you can easily move around in, and comfortable close-toed shoes. Long hair must be pulled back and masks, provided by SFCS, are required while in the building.
Cancellation Policy
Lori Baker

Lori’s impressive career as a pastry chef began in the teaching kitchens of Johnson & Wales University, where she earned a degree in Pastry Arts. Upon moving to San Francisco, Lori cut her teeth in some of the city’s top restaurants, including Postrio, Bix, Gordon’s House of Fine Eats, Fifth Floor, and Home Restaurant. She then taught for two years at the CA Culinary Academy. Lori may be best known for the beloved Baker & Banker restaurant, which fed hungry San Franciscans for five years beginning in 2009, and its adjacent bakery, which specialized in American desserts and breakfast pastries.