For those who take pride in their gift-giving, the search for a present that truly impresses and stands the test of time is a constant pursuit. The ideal gift avoids the dreaded donation bin and instead offers a lasting memory. This year, the answer lies not in a wrapped box, but in an experience: cooking classes are emerging as the standout experiential gift for the home cooks in your life.
How to Find the Right Cooking Class
With an overwhelming number of culinary courses available, selecting the right one requires a thoughtful approach. Julia Skinner, a renowned recipe tester, culinary instructor, and founder of the Culinary Curiosity School, advises focusing on personal relevance. The goal is to find a class that resonates deeply with the recipient's current relationship with food.
"I have a class that’s specifically about reconnecting to the joy of cooking again," Skinner says. "So that’s a good one for people who are like, ‘I’ve been cooking for my family for years, and I hate it.’" The key is to move beyond generic Italian or French classes and consider what would rekindle their specific culinary spark.
Presenting an Unwrappable Gift
Gifting an experience requires a creative touch. Skinner recommends enhancing the offering by pairing the cooking lesson with a thoughtful physical item. This tactic bridges the gap between the intangible experience and the tradition of giving a physical present.
"Make the gifting experience really fun and meaningful for the person," she suggests. For example, if you choose a French cooking class, accompany it with a high-quality crepe pan or a classic Parisian sweater. This combination elevates the entire gift and gives the recipient a tangible token to anticipate their upcoming class.
What's Trending in Culinary Education
Forget the predictable trends. While many might guess Thai or Italian cuisine are the most sought-after, Skinner reveals a surprising frontrunner for couples. Her most popular course for romantic partners is a class focused on reducing food waste. This indicates a growing desire for practical, sustainable skills that have a positive impact beyond the kitchen, making for a thoughtful and modern gift.
More From The Filter
This guide is part of a broader look at living better. The newsletter also recently featured a collection of 10 international kitchen staples that haven't yet become mainstream, offering tools like a Naikir knife for perfect chopping and a stylish tortilla press to elevate Taco Tuesday.
For those feeling the seasonal stress, a roundup of the best meditation apps was put to the test, highlighting free and effective options for improving sleep and reducing anxiety. Furthermore, five professional chefs shared their surprising must-have kitchen appliances, often opting for versatile everyday staples over fancy single-use gadgets.
And for a dose of nostalgia, a separate feature compiled 15 retro gifts, from Furbys to Magic 8 Balls, designed to thaw the coldest of hearts with a wave of sentimental joy.
