Artisanal ice cream pasta course in Castellana caves

As someone who loves discovering unique food experiences, I found the artisanal ice cream pasta course in Castellana Grotte to be a delightful mix of hands-on fun, authentic flavors, and expert craftsmanship. Hosted by Giordy Babbo, a passionate master ice cream maker, this two-hour experience digs into the world of gelato—beyond just tasting, you’ll learn the art of creating your own natural, seasonal flavors. It’s a rare chance to step behind the scenes of Italian artisan gelato making, all in the charming setting near the Castellana caves.

What really makes this experience stand out is Giordy’s evident passion for food in general and artisan ice cream in particular. I loved how he takes the time to explain the importance of using natural, Km 0 ingredients—meaning fresh, local produce—something that’s genuinely felt throughout the workshop. Two aspects that really caught my attention: first, how approachable Giordy makes the process, even for beginners; second, the emphasis on seasonal flavors, which means your ice cream will always reflect what’s fresh and available at that time of year.

One possible consideration is the price—at around $98.30 per person, it isn’t the cheapest activity, but considering the personalized attention, the high-quality ingredients, and the tangible skills you walk away with, it offers solid value. And if you’re a family or a group of friends, the private setup ensures you’ll have plenty of space to ask questions, experiment, and enjoy the process without feeling rushed.

Key Points / Takeaways

Authentic Italian craftsmanship: Giordy’s passion shines through as he shares his knowledge and love for gelato, making you appreciate the effort that goes into every spoonful.
Fresh, seasonal ingredients: The flavors you create are rooted in local produce, which enhances both the taste and the sense of place.
Hands-on experience: You don’t just watch; you produce two different flavors of gelato, learning techniques that you can replicate at home, aided by a small recipe booklet and a personal ice cream maker.
Family-friendly and flexible: The experience adapts to various dietary intolerances with advance notice, making it suitable for different needs.
Authentic setting with a personal touch: Hosted by Giordy and his sister at the Gelateria Caruso in Polignano a Mare, the atmosphere is warm and welcoming, making learning a joy.
Great reviews from previous participants: Multiple guests highlight how memorable, delicious, and educational this experience is—especially loved by gelato enthusiasts.

Entering the World of Artisan Gelato

From the moment you arrive at the meeting point, the vibe is warm and inviting. The course begins with a brief introduction from Giordy Babbo, who explains his deep passion for artisan ice cream and how he views it as both an art and a science. His enthusiasm is contagious, and his clear explanations set the tone for a fun, learning-focused session.

The setting in Polignano a Mare’s well-known Gelateria Caruso adds an authentic Italian touch that feels more like a family kitchen than a formal class. The friendly atmosphere encourages questions and experimentation, which is ideal for those who love to get involved rather than just observe.

The Process: Making Gelato from Scratch

The core of this experience is producing two flavors of gelato—chosen based on the season—on a shared table. Giordy guides you through each step, from selecting ingredients to mixing and freezing. The emphasis on seasonal, local ingredients means you’re working with the best nature has to offer at that time, which translates into vibrant, fresh flavors.

Participants will learn about the importance of natural products, reducing the reliance on artificial flavors, and how to balance flavors and textures. According to a review, Giordy makes the process approachable: “He and his sister really made us feel welcome,” which is essential when trying to grasp new techniques.

What I appreciated is that this isn’t just about following a recipe; it’s about understanding the why behind each step. For example, you’ll learn how to balance sweetness with natural fruit or nut additions, and how to achieve the perfect creamy texture.

Tasting and Sharing: The Moment of Truth

Once your gelato is prepared, the excitement builds as you get to taste your creations immediately—this is, after all, the best part. The reviews are filled with comments about how delicious the final products are, with many mentioning the melon sorbet as a highlight, and how it’s the best they’ve ever had.

Following the tasting, there’s a 15-minute coffee break which enhances the convivial atmosphere. Afterwards, participants receive a certificate and apron as a memento, while a small recipe booklet makes it easy to recreate your new skills at home with a small ice cream maker.

Practicalities and Logistics

The experience costs around $98.30 per person, which might seem steep for a two-hour class, but it’s worth considering the hands-on nature, quality ingredients, and personalized guidance. The mobile ticket system makes it easy to book and plan, with most people booking about 100 days in advance due to high demand.

The meeting point is at Eurospin in Castellana Grotte, a convenient location for travelers staying in the area or visiting the caves. The activity is private, meaning only your group participates, which keeps the atmosphere relaxed and allows for plenty of interaction.

You should plan for about two hours, including the tasting and break, and be prepared to get your hands dirty (in the best way). The class can accommodate various intolerances if arranged in advance, making it a flexible option.

Who Will Love This?

This experience is ideal for food lovers, especially those who enjoy DIY activities and want to learn authentic Italian techniques. It’s perfect for families, couples, or small groups who appreciate a personalized, intimate setting. If you’re traveling with children, they’ll love creating their own flavors, and many reviews mention how much their kids enjoyed it.

It also suits travelers interested in local culture and craftsmanship—learning not just to eat gelato but to make it—adds a meaningful dimension to your trip.

The Value and Overall Impression

Paying nearly $100 per person might seem high at first glance, but when you consider the quality of ingredients, expert guidance, and the memorable experience, it’s a good investment—especially for true gelato aficionados. The reviews consistently highlight how the experience is fun, educational, and delicious, making it well worth the cost for those who want a deeper connection to Italy’s beloved dessert.

This course stands out as an authentic hands-on culinary adventure. It’s especially suited for those who want more than just a tasting—who want to understand and recreate the magic of Italian gelato at home.

Summary: Who Should Book This Experience?

If you’re looking for a fun, educational activity that offers a taste of Italy’s artisan culinary traditions, this gelato course is a great pick. It’s perfect for foodies, families, and curious travelers who enjoy making things themselves and learning from passionate locals. The focus on seasonal, natural ingredients adds authenticity and flavor, ensuring each scoop is special.

However, if you’re on a strict budget or prefer self-guided tours, this might feel a bit pricey. But as a unique, memorable highlight of your trip to Puglia, it’s a small investment in creating lasting memories—and maybe even some homemade gelato to take home.

FAQ

How long is the gelato making class?
The entire experience lasts about 2 hours, including tasting and a short coffee break.

Where does the experience start?
It begins at Eurospin in Castellana Grotte, a central and easy-to-reach location.

Can I customize the flavors?
Flavors are based on seasonal ingredients, so they naturally vary, and participants help decide what to make.

Is the activity suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention children loved making and tasting their own gelato, and the experience can be adapted for various intolerances.

What’s included in the price?
You get to make two flavors of gelato, taste your creations, receive a certificate and apron, and a recipe booklet.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.

Is this experience private?
Yes, only your group participates, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

Do I need any prior cooking experience?
Not at all—Giordy makes it easy for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.

This artisanal gelato course offers a genuine taste of Italian craftsmanship, wrapped in a friendly, hands-on setting. It’s a fun way to learn, taste, and take home a piece of Italy, perfect for those who want to deepen their culinary appreciation while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of Polignano a Mare.