Here is a list of the forthcoming classes at the Fig Tree Pastry School (space is limited, so it is best to book in advance):

Decadent Pierre Herme Chocolate Cupcake or Cake Class

Learn how to make an extremely decadent - almost flourless - chocolate cake, with ganache topping. The course also includes tips on using piping bags and fundamental cake-decorating skills.

When: Sunday, April 24, 2-5 pm

Price: 400 yuan per person (550 yuan for two sharing) for cupcakes; 500 yuan (650 yuan for two sharing) for cupcakes with ganache.

Fresh Strawberry Cream Cake

Sponge cake with seasonally fresh strawberries and whipped cream.

When: Sunday, May 1, 2-5:30 pm

Price: 450 yuan per person (600 yuan for two sharing)

Black Forest Cake

Make the most insanely delicious black forest cake with French sour cherries (griottes) that have been immersed in liquor.

When: Sunday, May 8, 2-5:30 pm

Price: 450 yuan per person (600 yuan for two sharing)

Tart Tartin/Upsidedown Apple Tart

A divine combination of caramelized apples and homemade sweet pastry, this tart is a favorite of many French and Europeans.

When: Sunday, May 15, 2-6 pm

Price: 550 yuan per person (700 yuan for two sharing)

Cream Puffs

Learn how to make choux pastry to create your puff and pipe pastry cream into the center of these little indulgent treats.

When: Sunday, May 22, 2-5:30 pm

Price: 550 yuan per person (700 yuan for two sharing)

Brioche Bread and Oatmeal Cookies

Chef Lin describes brioche as "divine, butter-enriched, flaky bread, almost like a croissant." Since the brioche dough needs time to proof (ferment), there is the option of making oatmeal cookies during the waiting period.

When: Saturday, May 28, 11 am-4 pm

Price: From 500 yuan to 750 yuan (for two sharing add 150 yuan)

Liu Yujie

(China Daily 04/20/2011 page)