The Teaching Kitchen
The Exploration Commons Teaching Kitchen provides the community with creative and educational ways to connect through food.
Together we engage in experiences, programs, and hands-on classes to gain skills and confidence in the kitchen, both personally and professionally. We provide fundamental cooking classes, nutrition and health education, and workforce development opportunities for everyone in the community.
Our Approach to Food
Staff and guest presenters encourage curiosity of new cooking techniques and global cuisines to cultivate positive food experiences. We highlight accessible and affordable foods so participants feel empowered to recreate the recipes at home.
Our Approach to Community
We create programs to serve community members of all ages and local organizations. We foster respect of others and all food cultures by providing diverse and inclusive instruction.
Upcoming Classes and Programs
Two-Day Class: Focaccia Bread & Roasted Pepper and Tomato Soup
Tuesday, May 19, 2026 - 1:00pm - 2:30pmAges: Adults
Class registration and more information
On day one, participants will prepare the focaccia dough and the roasted red bell pepper and tomato soup. On day two, participants will bake the focaccia and enjoy it paired with warmed soup.
Satisfying Weeknight Pasta Sauce
Wednesday, May 20, 2026 - 5:30pm - 7:00pmAges: 11 - Adults, Adults
Class registration and more information
We’ll make a savory, vegetarian pasta sauce that even meat-eaters will enjoy. This hands-on class will demonstrate how to create rich flavor and satisfying texture while keeping weeknight prep quick by using a food processor.
Children ages 11 - 14 may register and attend ONLY if a supervising adult registers and attends with them. An adult can supervise a maximum of two children. All attendees, adults and children, must register.
Make Your Own Crackers
Thursday, May 21, 2026 - 5:00pm - 7:00pmAges: Adults
Class registration and more information
Love crispy crackers but hate all the extra ingredients in store-bought? Learn to make crackers from scratch. We will be making two types of crackers and a simple, tasty spread to serve with them. These will be great additions to your next charcuterie board or just make a great snack.
Teens Cook: Personal Pizza
Friday, May 22, 2026 - 2:00pm - 3:30pmAges: 13 - 18
Class registration and more information
CCPS has early dismissal today! Teens, come spend the afternoon in our teaching kitchen making your own personal pizza with the toppings of your own choosing.
Vegetarian Burritos
Wednesday, May 27, 2026 - 1:30pm - 3:00pmAges: 15 - Adults, Adults
Class registration and more information
Learn to make hearty, flavorful vegetarian burritos packed with wholesome, nutrient-rich ingredients. This class shows you how to create satisfying, health-focused meals that are quick, easy, and delicious.
Make Your Own Crackers
Friday, May 29, 2026 - 2:00pm - 3:30pmAges: Adults
Class registration and more information
Love crispy crackers but hate all the extra ingredients in store-bought? Learn to make crackers from scratch. We will be making two types of crackers and a simple, tasty spread to serve with them. These will be great additions to your next charcuterie board or just make a great snack.
Advanced Baking: Black Forest Cake
Saturday, May 30, 2026 - 1:30pm - 3:45pmAges: 15 - Adults, Adults
Class registration and more information
Black Forest Gateau (Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte) is a classic German dessert featuring layers of chocolate sponge cake, whipped cream, and cherries, flavored with Kirsch and decorated with more whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and cherries. Each student will scratch-bake one cake using the famous recipe from Drubba Black Forest Village.
Cooking for Wellness: Rainbow Antioxidant Salad
Monday, June 1, 2026 - 1:30pm - 3:30pmAges: 15 - Adults, Adults
Class registration and more information
This colorful salad packs a wide variety of nutrients and antioxidants into a single meal. A dish that works great for BBQs, brunch, or your weekly meal prep. This recipe will be accompanied by a presentation on the Anti-inflammatory Diet with a registered dietitian. This class is provided through our partnership with Carroll Hospital.