Porto: Pastel de Nata Baking Class & Wine Tasting

Summary

Learn to make Pastel de Nata in Porto’s lively kitchen with wine

You’ll roll up your sleeves in Porto’s city center and learn every step of making pastel de nata from scratch — dough included — with expert hosts guiding you (and pouring local wine). Expect laughter over floury hands and stories about Portuguese traditions before tasting your own warm pastries straight from the oven.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the clatter of bowls and that warm, sweet smell — butter and sugar melting together, you know? We’d barely stepped into the kitchen near São Bento station when our host, Joana, grinned and handed me an apron. There were ten of us around the big table, everyone a little shy at first, but Joana broke the ice by pouring vinho verde and telling us how her grandmother used to judge a baker by the sound their pastry made. (Apparently it should “sing” when you bite it — I’m still not sure if mine did.)

We took turns rolling out dough so thin you could almost see through it. My hands got sticky and flour dusted my sleeves — no one seemed to mind. The conversation bounced between English, French, and a bit of Portuguese (I tried “canela” for cinnamon; Joana laughed at my accent). The oven hissed quietly in the background while someone asked about the history of pastel de nata. Joana explained how monks invented them centuries ago to use up leftover egg yolks — something about laundry starch needing egg whites back then. It’s funny what sticks with you.

When our pastries finally came out golden and hot, we crowded around for that first bite. Crispy shell, creamy center, just enough cinnamon on top — honestly, I didn’t expect them to taste so different from what I’d had in cafés. Maybe it was because we’d made them ourselves? Or maybe it was just being there with strangers who felt like friends by the end. I still think about that smell every time I pass a bakery now.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Pastel de Nata baking workshop

• Arrive at central Porto location
• Join group workshop session
• Learn to make dough and pastry
• Taste regional Portuguese wine
• Participate in baking Pastel de Nata
• Enjoy freshly baked pastries

Top questions

Where is the pastel de nata workshop located in Porto?

The workshop is held at two central locations: one near São Bento Train Station and Ribeira, and another close to Jardim do Morro and the Port Wine Cellars.

Is this pastel de nata class suitable for children?

No, only adults can participate. Children under 15 are not allowed; those aged 15-17 must be accompanied by an adult.

What is included in the Porto pastel de nata baking class?

The class includes all ingredients for baking pastel de nata from scratch plus local wine, coffee or tea during the experience.

Can I join if I arrive late?

No, entry is not permitted once the workshop has started due to logistical reasons.

Is this a private or group activity?

This is a group workshop for up to 12 participants. Private lessons are available if full participation is desired.

Are gluten or lactose intolerant guests able to join?

No, this workshop is not suitable for people intolerant to gluten or lactose.

Do I need previous baking experience?

No previous experience is needed; hosts guide everyone through each step.

What’s included

Your afternoon includes all ingredients for making pastel de nata from scratch alongside expert guidance in a central Porto kitchen. You’ll enjoy regional wine as you bake and finish with fresh pastries plus coffee or tea before heading out again into the city.