Ohlala Macarons in Paris!

A Hands-On Macaron Making Class in Paris That Delivers More Than Just Sweets

If you’re dreaming of tasting and making authentic French macarons in the city where they originated, the Ohlala Macarons experience in Paris is worth considering. This 1.5-hour class, offered by Aten-Te Aute, gives you the chance to learn from a knowledgeable instructor, create your own delicate treats, and enjoy tasting them with coffee or tea. Set in a cozy studio near Passage du Génie, it’s a small-group experience capped at six guests, ensuring plenty of individual attention.

What I love about this class is how detailed and step-by-step the instruction is, especially in mastering the Italian meringue method—an essential technique for creating perfect shells. Plus, the intimate group size makes it feel more like a friendly workshop than a cookie cutter tour, allowing for plenty of practice and questions. The chance to take home your freshly baked macarons, complete with fillings like ganache or jam, is a real bonus.

One thing to consider is that this class is non-refundable and requires booking in advance. If your schedule changes unexpectedly, you might want to double-check your plans. Also, while the price of roughly $139 per person might seem a tad high, it’s actually quite competitive for a hands-on, small-group experience in central Paris, especially considering the quality of instruction, ingredients, and the personalized touch.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Small-group setting guarantees personalized guidance and more hands-on practice
• Learn the Italian meringue technique, a core skill for perfect macarons
• Taste your creations with included coffee or tea, making the experience more satisfying
• Take home your macarons to impress friends or continue experimenting on your own
• Meet near Passage du Génie, a convenient central Paris location close to public transportation
• Guides like Gaby and Eduardo are praised for their thorough explanations and friendly approach

The Details That Make The Difference

An Authentic Parisian Experience in a Cozy Setting

From the moment you arrive at 22 Passage du Génie, you’re welcomed into a small, inviting space that’s perfect for this type of culinary class. The environment is described as “so cute,” which is exactly how it feels—more like a charming kitchen than a large commercial kitchen. This ambiance invites you to relax, make mistakes, and ask questions without feeling rushed.

The instructor, whether it’s Gaby or Eduardo, is highlighted for their patience and thoroughness. Nicole D mentions how Gaby ensured everyone practiced the techniques step by step, which is crucial when working with delicate pastries like macarons. For those who might worry about the technical difficulty, knowing you’ll be guided carefully helps ease those nerves.

Mastering the Italian Meringue Shells

This is the part that sets this class apart from simpler, more casual baking sessions. The Italian meringue method, known for producing glossy, stable shells, is emphasized as the key to success. You’ll get hands-on practice piping and shaping, which is a great skill that can be applied to other baked goods later.

Cathy G praises Eduardo’s teaching style, calling him “outstanding” and noting how he made the process “easy and fun.” It’s clear that in addition to technical skills, the class aims to make baking accessible and enjoyable, especially with the group limited to just six people.

Filling, Pairing, and Tasting

Once the shells are baked, the fun continues with pairing them with ganache or homemade jam. Nicole D and Abasmaih enjoyed making and tasting combination fillings, which adds an extra layer of satisfaction. The inclusion of coffee or tea during tasting makes it feel like a cozy, authentic moment—like sharing a little Parisian café experience in your own kitchen.

The reviews repeatedly mention how delicious the macarons turned out—some even calling their creations “perfect.” This is a testament to the quality of instruction and ingredients provided.

Practical Details and Value

The price of around $138.77 per person includes ingredients, tools, aprons, and the opportunity to photograph and film the process freely. This all-in-one package offers good value, especially considering you’ll be taking home your finished batch. The small group size means more personalized attention, which is invaluable when mastering a delicate craft.

However, keep in mind that alcoholic beverages are not included, so if you’re hoping to toast your culinary success with wine, you’ll need to bring your own or visit nearby cafes afterward.

Who Will Love This?

This experience is perfect for food lovers, baking enthusiasts, or travelers looking to add a personal touch to their Paris trip. It’s especially well-suited for those who enjoy hands-on learning and want to take home a tangible souvenir—your own batch of macarons.

Families and small groups will appreciate how engaging and interactive the class is. And if you’re traveling with children, the reviews suggest it’s suitable for kids as well, as they had a great time preparing and eating the treats.

Why This Class is a Great Choice in Paris

What makes this class stand out is not just the focus on making delicate macarons but the personalized attention and the quality of instruction. It’s well suited for those who want to learn a skill they can replicate at home, or simply indulge in a fun, tasty activity while in Paris.

The location near Passage du Génie is convenient, and the small group size ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd. Plus, the ability to take photos or videos freely lets you preserve memories and share your new skills later.

While the cost may seem steep compared to just buying macarons at a pastry shop, the value lies in the experience, expert guidance, and the chance to improve your baking techniques. Many reviewers rave about how well they learned and how delicious their macarons turned out afterward.

Final Thoughts: Is This Experience Worth It?

If you’re passionate about baking or want a memorable hands-on activity in Paris, this class offers a good balance of fun, learning, and authentic experience. You’re not just watching a demonstration—you’re actively involved, which amplifies the enjoyment and the sense of achievement.

It’s ideal for adventurous foodies, couples, small groups, or families wanting a shared activity that produces edible souvenirs. The only real limitation might be the non-refundable policy, so plan ahead and be sure your schedule aligns.

In the end, you’ll leave with new skills, a batch of homemade macarons, and a sweet story to tell. For a taste of Parisian pastry craftsmanship, this class provides more than just a recipe—it’s a memorable, tangible connection to French culinary tradition.

FAQs

Is this class suitable for beginners?
Yes, the class is designed to teach the essential techniques, even if you’ve never baked macarons before. The instructor guides you step-by-step, making it accessible for all skill levels.

How long does the class last?
Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving enough time to learn, practice, bake, and taste your treats.

What’s included in the price?
All ingredients, tools, and an apron are provided. Coffee or tea is included for tasting, and you’re welcome to take photos or videos freely.

Can I customize the fillings?
The class specifically teaches ganache and jam fillings, which you can pair with your shells. Though not specifically customizable, you might be inspired to try other fillings at home.

Where does the class meet?
At 22 Passage du Génie, a central Paris location close to public transportation, making it easy to reach from most parts of the city.

Are alcoholic beverages available?
No, alcohol is not included or served during the class.

Is there a minimum number of participants?
Yes, the class requires a minimum booking. If not met, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What if I need to cancel?
The booking is non-refundable, so be sure of your plans before confirming.

Is this activity suitable for children?
Many reviews mention children having a great time, and the small, friendly setting makes it suitable for family participation.

Will I receive a recipe?
While the review mentions looking forward to trying the recipe at home, it’s best to ask the instructor if you want to take a detailed recipe card.

For anyone eager to learn the craft of French macarons and enjoy a cozy, hands-on experience in Paris, this class offers good value, expert guidance, and sweet memories. It’s a delightful way to connect with French baking traditions and perhaps even impress friends back home with your new skills.