Not at all. Our classes are built for the rookie but have many new techniques and value for breadmaking fans. Grainbakers was designed for beginners. You do not need to know how to bake, understand sourdough, or have any special kitchen skills. Our goal is to make breadmaking feel accessible — not intimidating.

Spent grain is the nutrient-rich barley left over after the brewing process. Instead of being discarded, Grainbakers gives this brewing byproduct a second life by transforming it into fresh artisan bread. Spent grain contains valuable fiber and nutrients, making it a perfect ingredient for sustainable baking.

Grainbakers classes are hosted at independent craft breweries throughout California and select cities nationwide. We partner with breweries that want to offer guests something beyond the traditional taproom experience. Looking for a class near you? Visit our upcoming events page.

Grainbakers is the original spent grain breadmaking experience — a hands-on class where guests transform brewery spent grain into delicious artisan bread.Hosted inside independent craft breweries, Grainbakers combines learning, creativity, and community into a unique night out. Guests make their own bread dough, enjoy the brewery atmosphere, and leave with something they created themselves It’s part bread class, part social experience, and part excuse to gather with friends, coworkers, or family. Unlike a traditional baking class, Grainbakers is designed to be approachable, fun, and beginner-friendly. You don’t need baking experience — just a willingness to try something new.Learn more about our spent grain breadmaking experience.

Grainbakers currently serves breweries and private groups throughout:Northern CaliforniaThe Bay AreaSouthern CaliforniaSelect cities nationwide through special tours and partnerships (Boston, Denver, Austin with a few more coming in 2026 and 2027.)  We continue to expand based on demand, but we are a small company.  We are not part of any national craft and sip chain.

Paint and sip is sitting still, very still. Our classes are more lively, more interactive with strangers and your friends.  Instead of creating something that sits on a wall or ends up in a closet or trash can, you create something you can actually enjoy and want to make again and again!During a Grainbakers class, you’ll:Make your own artisan bread or pretzels from scratch. Learn about spent grain and sustainable food practicesConnect with friends, coworkers, and other guestsEnjoy the atmosphere of a local breweryEnjoy a beer or a soda! We don't include a drink, but you'll be able to drink whatever you like through the class! Some locations have cocktails and wine. Check the venue's website to inquire about their menus and if they have food offerings to eat before or after class. Breadmakers you'll have hot bread coming out of the oven by 9:30PM

Our spent grain artisan bread flavors change throughout the year and include favorites like:Rosemary and Sea SaltCinnamon RaisinCheddar, Jalapeño and BaconDark Chocolate and CherrySeasonal creations like Lemon, Blueberry & Poppyseed or "Holiday Breads of the World" in December.DOZENS of flavors. We travel with an amazing array of interesting flavor offerings- Midnight Mocha Madness Bread? We've got it! Guests can also get creative with their own additions and flavors.Every class is designed to be approachable, creative, and delicious.

Absolutely!  While many public classes take place at breweries, Grainbakers is ultimately about breadmaking and connection. Our private events can be customized for offices, schools, wellness programs and groups who want a food-focused experience without alcohol.

A: Bring an open heart, a sense of humor, and a bit of patience. You're welcome to bring a non-participating friend who just wants to enjoy their phone and relax while you're in class. Optional: An apron, a BIG bag to bring things home. Some folks like to bring a tiny notebook and pen. We provide all ingredients, supplies, and instructions. Come ready to make bread, meet people, and enjoy a unique experience.

Yes! Our Soft Pretzel class includes recipe cards for the dough, beer cheese dip, and salted caramel mustard. The breadmaking class includes our recipe, further instructions, a guide to 40+ flavors, and 100% transparency on where we source our specialty items so you can purchase more of something you saw in class.

Grainbakers is designed to be an affordable night out For the price of a typical evening activity, guests get:A hands-on experienceExpert instructionA fun group activityMaterials, recipe guides and more to work with when they get homeA memorable night in a local brewery It’s an experience that delivers more than just an activity — it delivers a story you’ll talk about afterward. We encourage you to look at the pricing for Sur La Table. Our classes are much more afforable. If you are newly laid off, retired, a schoolteacher, or similar, valued but lower-paid, we often need volunteers to help with setup and cleanup in exchange for a free ticket. Send us a message through the contact form to see which classes have volunteer spots available. You might be surprised to learn that's how ALL of our Instructors joined Grainbakers. All were volunteers first! Meet our instructors. We're a wild and wacky bunch.

If you are newly laid off, retired, a schoolteacher, or similarly loved and valued but lower-paid, we often need volunteers to help with setup and cleanup in exchange for a free ticket. Send us a message through the contact form to see which classes have volunteer spots available. You might be surprised to learn that's how ALL of our Instructors joined Grainbakers. All were volunteers first! Meet our instructors. We're a wild and wacky bunch.

People are looking for more things to do at breweries than simply ordering a drink. You have spent grain. We know what to do with it! Whole Grain Breadmaking right in your taproom!Grainbakers gives guests a reason to visit, stay longer, and bring friends.It’s an affordable brewery experience that combines craft beer culture, creativity, sustainability, and community. Learn more about hosting Grainbakers at your brewery.

Grainbakers was founded by Caitlin, who teaches most of our clients with the support of our team of trained instructors who love teaching, connecting with people, and making bread approachable. A few of our specialty programs, like Craft & Culteured or the Beer and Cheese event, are led by Chef Dave. Chef Amna, a Cupcake and cake decorating expert, leads these classes. Every instructor brings energy, encouragement, and a welcoming attitude to each class. Meet the Grainbakers team. Read our experience ethos

Reach Grainbakers by email or text. Text 925-272-9415 and one of our team members will get back to you.  Want to write something detailed or longer? Use our Contact Form.Need a price on a group event? Use our Teambuilders inquiry form. Whether you’re looking for a fun night out, a unique team-building activity, or a new way to bring people into your brewery, Grainbakers is ready to help you create an experience people remember.

Children with a ticket may attend and participate in any of the Great Cookie Swap Events.Kids aged 14 and older may attend our regular classes if they have a ticket and their chaperone has a ticket. Please see our KIDS Policy.