Ozarka College To Present Community Baking Series

The Ozarka College Culinary Arts Program will present a continuing education series on baking, beginning in April 2016. This hands-on three-week series will focus on different types of baked goods each week, giving participants an opportunity to learn from Certified Chef de Cuisine, Alden Griffus. Chef Alden will share the tricks of the trade and teach participants how to consistently produce quality-baked goods in their very own kitchens.Each course meets on the specified Thursday from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Students may choose to register for the entire series (includes all three sessions) for a total cost of $50 ($35 for participants over the age of 60), or pay as they go $20 per session ($15 for participants over 60). Registration fees include the instruction, demonstration, participation and a treat to take home.The first course will take place on April 7 when Chef Alden covers the basics of pie making from crust to filling. She will address the age-old questions like what fat to use in the crust, why some fillings work and others don't, and what type of thickener is best to use with different fillings? Participants will then make their own apple pie to takehome to their families.The second course will take place on April 14, covering quick breads and muffins. Participants will learn what type of flour to use when, the difference between baking soda and baking powder, when to add chunks as recipes instruct, and so much more. Participants will also choose from a selection of different recipes and take home a delicious treat.The final course will take place on April 21 and will cover yeast breads. In essence, yeast breads are simple, but their mastery continues to elude even the most skilled home cook and many chefs, too. Chef Alden will discuss the process of bread making, highlight the trouble areas, and show participants what each step should look like. Each participant will be able to either take home a country loaf or rolls to enjoy later.Seating is limited and registration is requested by April 1, 2016. For more information or to register, please contact Chef Alden Griffus at 870.368.2073 or email: alden.griffus@ozarka.edu.