The festive season is all about sharing, and what better way to capture the spirit than by sharing some traditional Italian recipes and mouth-watering treats at an Italian Christmas Baking Class presented by Absolutely Abruzzo Tours.

The Italian Christmas Baking Class will be held at Bread House at 49-51 Gregory Terrace, Brisbane on Saturday 24 November, and at Moreton Bay College at 450 Wondall Road, Manly West on Sunday 2 December from 10am to 3pm. A class scheduled for the Saturday is already full, so we advise you book quickly.

Hosted by accomplished Abruzzese cook Luciana Masci, guests will experience the traditional culture of Italy’s central region of Abruzzo by working closely with Luciana to prepare authentic recipes passed down through generations of her family.

Adding further spice will be a performance of traditional Italian songs by international operatic tenor Michael Howard, whose extensive career included major European opera houses such as La Scala and the Paris Opera.

Participants will learn to use produce from the Abruzzo region in traditional baking to create delicious pastries such as pizzelle, waffles filled with Italian custard cream, almond and honey biscotti, and fried pastries with jam and chocolate filling known as cavicioni. You’ll also try your hand at tarallucci, crisp biscuits with white wine and aniseed and creating almond meringues known as spumoni amongst other delights. The class kicks off with a delicious espresso coffee from Abruzzo or a cup of tea, and will end with a glass or two of prosecco as you savour your creations. You can also take some of your baked goods home to share with family and friends.

Luciana, who is passionate about the cuisine and culture of her home region, has taught authentic Abruzzese cooking for several years as part of her small-group luxury tours. Absolutely Abruzzo Tours offers travellers the chance to experience the Abruzzese region first-hand, cooking with local village ladies, and learning from celebrated chefs of the region.

Sharing in the festive spirit Daniel Masci, Luciana’s cousin and Director Masci & Co, will also join in with a selection of wine, olive oil and grape jams native to the Abruzzo region. Luciana will be using these fine ingredients from Masci & Co. on the day. Daniel’s company brings the finest quality artisan products from the region of Abruzzo to Australia. Wine, hand picked truffles, fresh made pasta and many other products have been selected with care from local suppliers and are available online.

The Italian Christmas Baking Class is $150 per person (maximum 12 guests per class). Included in the experience is hands-on tuition, ingredients, recipe details, an Absolutely Abruzzo apron and the opportunity to savour your own authentic Abruzzese creations whilst enjoying a private performance from a world-class tenor. Each class runs from 10am to 3pm.

Bookings are essential, spaces are limited, and gift vouchers are available.