Brussels: Belgian Chocolate Workshop & Pralines Making

Summary

Make Belgian pralines in Brussels with hands-on chocolate class and local tips

You’ll dip your hands into real Belgian chocolate making in Brussels—crafting pralines and mendiants from scratch with local guidance. Taste as you go (it’s encouraged), sip rich hot chocolate mid-way, and leave with your own handmade box of sweets. You’ll walk out smiling—and maybe a little sticky—with new skills and stories to tell.

What’s the experience like?

“Don’t eat them all yet!” That’s what our instructor said when I reached for my third praline — honestly, resisting was the hardest part. The place smelled like cocoa from the moment we walked in. There were just eight of us, sleeves rolled up, melting chocolate and laughing at how messy things got (I still have a little cocoa powder on my shoes). Our guide, Elise, switched between French and English so easily — she showed us how to swirl the molds just right for that glossy finish. I tried copying her wrist flick but mostly ended up splattering chocolate on the counter. She didn’t mind; she just grinned and handed me another spatula.

I didn’t know making Belgian chocolates would be this hands-on or that you’d actually leave with a box of your own work. We made pralines first — those filled ones you always see in shop windows — and then mendiants, which are these little disks topped with nuts and dried fruit. Elise kept sneaking us tastes (“for research,” she said). The hot chocolate break halfway through was honestly needed; it was thick, almost like drinking melted bars. Someone asked about the history of pralines in Brussels, and Elise told us about old family recipes passed down through generations. It felt pretty special to stand there elbow-deep in chocolate knowing people have been doing this here for centuries.

By the end, everyone had their own box packed (mine looked a bit lopsided but whatever), and I’m not sure how many actually made it home uneaten. Walking out into the Brussels air with my hands still smelling faintly sweet — yeah, I get why people say this is a must-do. If you’re thinking about a day trip or want something more than just touring shops, this Belgian chocolate workshop is worth it for the stories alone.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Belgian chocolate pralines workshop

• Attend 2.5-hour chocolate workshop
• Learn to make pralines and mendiants
• Craft 30+ chocolates yourself
• Enjoy hot chocolate with treats
• Take chocolates home or eat on spot

Top questions

How long does the Belgian chocolate workshop last?

The workshop lasts about 2.5 hours from start to finish.

Do I get to take home the chocolates I make?

Yes, you’ll pack up at least 30 chocolates in a box to take home—or eat on the spot if you can’t wait.

Is this workshop suitable for kids?

No, children under 12 aren’t allowed as some parts are technical and the session is long.

Are all ingredients and equipment provided?

Yes, everything you need is included—ingredients, tools, even boxes for your chocolates.

Is there public transport nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available close to the workshop location in Brussels.

Can someone watch without participating?

No spectators are allowed; everyone present needs to join in making chocolates.

Is lunch included in this activity?

No lunch is provided but you do get hot chocolate during the session along with your handmade sweets.

What’s included

Your afternoon includes all ingredients and equipment needed for making at least 30 Belgian chocolates per person—pralines and mendiants—plus hands-on help throughout from a local guide. You’ll also enjoy a proper hot chocolate break during the session and leave with your creations boxed up to take home (if they last that long).