Team Building sessions available. Contact - sharon@hobbyhillfarm.com for details

Sourdough Bread Baking Class | Beginner Friendly

(28)
$12900
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Sourdough feels complicated — until it doesn't. This class is the moment it finally clicks.

In Sourdough Basics, you'll skip the confusing internet rabbit holes and get a clear, simple introduction to what sourdough actually is and how it works. No overwhelm. No perfection required. Just real technique, step by step, so you can go home and actually do this.

About

Your instructor is Sharon Munyak, founder of Culinary by Hobby Hill. Sharon didn't come up through culinary school — she learned to cook and bake in her grandmother's kitchen in New Jersey, where food was how you showed up for people. She's been teaching classes for over 12 years, starting with five core classes through Parks & Recreation and growing to 100+ distinct class experiences. Four years ago, when sourdough became the thing everyone was struggling with and no one could explain clearly, Sharon stepped in — and hasn't stopped since. Her students describe her as patient, endlessly generous with her knowledge, and the kind of teacher who makes you feel like no question is too small. She's available to you before, during, and after class — because getting you to consistent results is the whole point.

What you'll do:

  • Get to know your starter — how it works, what it's supposed to look like, and why it matters
  • Mix your own dough by hand and feel exactly what the right texture should be
  • Learn the bulk ferment and cold ferment process so you understand why each step matters
  • Taste freshly baked sourdough in class — because you should know what you're working toward
  • Leave with your shaped dough in a banneton, ready to finish at home

What you'll take home: You'll leave with a fresh portion of starter (bring a 1-qt container), your mixed and shaped dough in a banneton for the bulk and cold ferment at home, and clear written instructions for baking day. The hard part is done — you just follow through.

This class is perfect for anyone who's been curious about sourdough but not sure where to start. Come as you are. We'll figure it out together.

Spots fill up — grab yours before they're gone. 🍞

⚠️ Allergen note: Contains wheat and malted barley.

Questions Before You Book

Q: Do I need any sourdough experience to take this class?

A: None at all. This class is designed for people who are starting from zero or who have tried sourdough on their own and hit a wall. You don't need to know anything walking in — just bring curiosity and we'll build from there.

Q: I've tried sourdough before and it never comes out the same twice. Will this actually help?

A: That's exactly who this class is for. Inconsistency is the most common frustration we hear, and it almost always comes back to a few key things that most recipes don't explain clearly — fermentation signals, dough feel, and timing flexibility. In class, we cover what's actually happening at each stage so you can start reading the dough instead of just following steps.

Q: Why does my sourdough work one week and not the next even when I do the same thing?

A: Because sourdough responds to conditions, not just steps — temperature, flour protein content, how active your starter is that day. In class, Sharon teaches you how to recognize what your dough is telling you in real time, so you can adjust instead of guess. It's one of the most useful things you can learn.

Q: I'm worried about wasting flour and ingredients if things don't work out. What can I expect to take home?

A: You'll leave class with your own mixed and shaped dough in a banneton, plus a fresh portion of starter — so you're not walking out empty-handed. The class is designed to get you to a successful result every time, and Sharon is here to make sure that happens. If something feels off, you'll know how to fix it before you leave.

Q: Does one ticket cover two people?

A: No — each ticket covers one person. Every student gets their own dough, their own hands in it, and their own starter to take home. That's how you actually learn.

Q: What should I bring?

A: An apron, a 1-qt container for your starter, a 4-qt bowl for mixing your dough in class, and a banneton to take your shaped dough home for the bulk and cold ferment. If you're not sure about equipment, reach out before class and Sharon will help you figure it out.

Q: I've taken a sourdough class before and it didn't stick. What makes this different?

A: Most sourdough classes teach you what to do. This one teaches you why it works. Sharon connects every step to cause and effect — so when something looks or feels different at home, you'll know what to look for instead of starting over. Students consistently say the class made things finally click in a way other resources didn't.

Q: Can I reach Sharon if I have questions after class?

A: Yes. Sharon is available after class by phone, text, or email to help you troubleshoot. She'll stay as long as it takes in class, and she means it when she says reach out. Getting you to a consistent result is the whole point.

 

  • Allergens
    Wheat, Malted Barley
  • What to Bring
    Apron, A 1-qt container for your starter, a 4-qt bowl for mixing your dough in class, and a banneton to take your shaped dough home.
  • Gluten Free
    No
  • Location
    2652 Anderson Highway, Powhatan, VA 23139
  • Does 1 Ticket cover 2 people?
    No
  • 5 stars: 28 (100%)
  • 4 stars: 0 (0%)
  • 3 stars: 0 (0%)
  • 2 stars: 0 (0%)
  • 1 star: 0 (0%)
M
Marianne Bacon
The Best Sourdough Class You Will Ever Take

If you’ve ever wanted to make bakery-quality sourdough at home, this is the class to take. The instructor is incredibly knowledgeable and has a wonderful sense of humor that makes learning fun and engaging. Every session is completely hands-on — you’re not just watching someone else bake, you’re mixing, kneading, and shaping your own dough under expert guidance.

What truly sets this class apart is the teacher’s genuine dedication to her students’ success. She’s available even after class — by text, phone, or email — to help troubleshoot any baking challenges or answer questions. That level of support is rare and so appreciated.

After taking this class, you’ll be baking beautiful, crusty, artisanal loaves fit for the most discerning palates. It’s an inspiring, confidence-building experience from start to finish — both educational and incredibly satisfying.

Highly recommend to anyone ready to fall in love with the art of sourdough!

R
Roy
Homerun!

I have to thank Sharon first she made thinks so easy. My first 5+ loaves weren't up to what I had hoped. No Dutch oven and working from a pan I adjusted and adjusted and kept referring to Sharon's handout. Finally did good cup and pulls and 48 hour cold fermentation. Magic happened!

K
Kimberly Bledsoe
Sourdough Class

What a fun and informative class! I've never been successful with sourdough. Leaving the class I was armed with lots of information and confidence. I'm happy to say I've made several successful loaves and have a whole new outlook on sourdough! From making pizzas to mozzarella cheese and now sourdough bread, I cannot say enough good things about the classes offered.

I am so happy to hear that you have had success after success. This is what we strive for and yes along the journey there are peaks and valleys. Enjoy the ride with sourdough as there is always something exciting around the corner. Sending out a new recipe to attendees this week. Baking from the heart! ~sharon

R
R. Darling
I’ll be back!

I’ve already signed up for another class! Took the sourdough course and learned a lot. I’ve been baking beautiful boules ever since. Sharon, our instructor has two qualities in a teacher that are so beneficial to adult students; she knows her stuff and she’s real patient. All skill levels felt welcome. The place is very well appointed- they thought of everything and the pre and post class communication is on point. It’s a bit of drive for me but I look forward to attending more classes at hobby hill.

Thank you for the review! Yes, I wish we were everywhere but that just isn' t feasible. Your breads look fabulous and I bet they are every bit as delicious! Looking forward to seeing you at your next class! ~Sharon

D
Diane Zimmerman
Sourdough basic class.

This was a fun day and I learned a new skill. Sharon is a great teacher. Her instructions were very clear and simple. I am looking forward to taking additional classes.

K
Karen
Fantastic Class!!!

What a great experience from start to finish! Sharon is a thorough and patient instructor-she makes learning to bake GF Sourdough Bread exciting and fun! I came home from the class and was able to make the most beautiful bread for my family and got rave reviews from them!
Sharon makes herself available for questions after you get home and encourages you to send her photos of your bread. So far I have text her and she actually texted and called me for clarification which was so kind! She is genuinely interested in her students’ success!
I will definitely be taking more classes with Sharon and telling all my friends about these amazing classes! Bon appétit !

S
Stephanie Lewis
Wonderful teacher & class!

I had a great time learning how to make sourdough with Sharon, who explained everything very clearly and set us up for success. She walked through every step of the way with us to help ensure our first loaves would turn out great. I ended up with a gorgeous, delicious sourdough boule I later baked at home, and I’m excited to continue my sourdough journey thanks to Sharon. Highly recommend this class.

Thank you for your kind review! We are so happy to hear that you had a great time learning how to make sourdough with us and that you were able to successfully bake a delicious loaf at home. We are thrilled to have been a part of your sourdough journey and we hope to see you in another one of our classes soon. Happy baking!

M
Madeleine Turner
Awesome class!

It was so fun and super informative. I was able to make multiple sourdoughs after and they were so delicious!

OMG Sourdough is so delicious and I was thrilled to share our knowledge with you. Bake on!!!

C
Catherine Kain
Wonderful class

After struggling to make sourdough on my own, I discovered this class on Facebook. Boy, am I glad I did!! Sharon packs in A LOT of information/hints in this class so be prepared to listen, take notes, and learn! She shares her “tried and true” recipe and explains the complicated world of sourdough bread-making so well. She even provides her phone # for any questions after class. If you love sourdough bread, take this class! My first loaf (dough prepared in class/baked at home) pictured!

R
Rick Neal
Great class.

This is a great class. It was fun and engaging. All my questions were answered.

A
Abram Dent
Sourdough Is Better After Working With Sharon

Great hands on class. Great to see process from start and at the same time work with my own starter and introduce one change for a side by side experience.

H
Heather Mackey
Sourdough bread making class

Exceptional class with a great teacher.

K
Karen Steinruck
Sour Dough Delight

What a pleasure it was meeting and learning from Sharon. She is patient, provides clear explanations, with enthusiasm and kindness, all in a supportive learning environment. Fun, and I look forward to becoming an expert!

V
Veronika C
Great sourdough class!

Really enjoyed this class and learned a lot from this hands-on experience!

Thank you for leaving such a positive review of our Sourdough Basics class! We're so happy to hear that you enjoyed the hands-on experience and learned a lot. We're thrilled to have had you in class and look forward to seeing you again soon. Keep baking that delicious sourdough!

M
Mary
Sourdough

The class was fun, and the instructor truly went above and beyond - after the class, when I was having trouble with my dough, she told me to give her a call so we could talk things through and troubleshoot. What amazing care and patience!

Hi there! We're so glad you enjoyed our Sourdough Basics class and I am always happy to be of assistance. Just let me know if you have any questions along the journey. ~sharon

J
Jessica Rivera-Umipeg
If I could give 100 stars I would

I took the sourdough class and have been hooked on making it since. Sharon, the instructor was pleasant to work with. She gave instructions, walked us through the process, answered questions, and continued to follow up with us even after the class. I HIGHLY recommend. I will be going back for more lessons.

Thank you so much for your kind words! We are thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the sourdough class and that Sharon was able to guide you through the process successfully. We are happy to be a part of your journey with sourdough and look forward to having you back for more lessons. Thank you for choosing Sourdough Basics and Happy Baking! ~the Team at Hobby Hill

T
Tim Rohrbacher
Sourdough 101

We all had a ball. It is a very straightforward process to learn and Sharon does a wonderful job making sure everyone clicks as she goes along.

A
Amy Hartman
Sourdough class

Sharon was great! I’m new to sourdough baking and there is a learning curve, but she made the class fun and enjoyable.

Thank you Amy - so glad you enjoyed the class. We are happy to help you in any way! ~sharon

E
Erin L
Sourdough Basics

Fun and informative. Great mother-daughter date!

C
Carol G
Great class

Fun and informative. I can’t wait to make bread at home

J
Jennifer Huntley
Sourdough class was a hit!

Our group loved the sourdough class. The instructor was very accommodating and taught us a lot.

R
Rosiland Buck
Amazing

This was the perfect gift for Christmas that I purchased for my girls!!!

J
Jonna Harrell
Sour dough class

I have enjoyed all the classes at Hobby Hill Farms. It’s an opportunity to learn a new skill in the kitchen and spend time with my daughters, as I typically share the experience with them.

Sharon is a great instructor and her expertise in culinary skills is amazing.

Thank you Jonna - so glad you enjoyed the class! ~sharon

K
K Holt
Sourdough Perfection

Sharon did an amazing job sharing her knowledge and techniques with making sourdough. I walked away with a strong starter, an easy to follow recipe, and hands on technique which have resulted in multiple successful sourdough loaves that have been enjoyed by my family and friends.

I’m so glad I decided to take Sharon’s class and I’m excited to continue my sourdough journey!

A
Alberto Nunez
Awesome experience!

Sharon is an experienced and amazing instructor. She was resourceful, instructive, and assertive!