Amsterdam: Make your cheese next to De Hallen

Making your own cheese in Amsterdam’s vibrant De Hallen neighborhood offers a delightful mix of hands-on learning and authentic local flavor. For around $131 per person, this 3-hour experience, led by friendly guides at De Kaasserie, promises a practical skill that lasts a lifetime. You’ll visit a cozy spot next to the lively De Hallen, known for its creative atmosphere and food scene, and get a chance to understand the fundamentals of cheesemaking — all while enjoying a tasting of your freshly made cheeses.

One of our favorite aspects of this class is the opportunity to experiment with adding spices and herbs to your cheeses. It’s not just about following a recipe but about discovering your own flavor combinations. Plus, the takeaway of two hand-made cheeses, recipes, and cheesemaking supplies means you’ll leave inspired and equipped to continue creating at home. The only thing to consider might be that this experience doesn’t include coffee or alcohol, but that’s a small trade-off for the depth of learning.

This workshop is perfect for anyone curious about working with food, especially those interested in exploring the art of cheese — from beginners to seasoned home cooks wanting new skills. If you’ve ever wondered how dairy turns into something as versatile as cheese, or if you enjoy tasting and experimenting with flavors, this tour will suit you well.

Key Points

• Hands-on cheesemaking: You’ll learn to make two types of fresh cheese using supermarket milk.
• Expert guidance: The instructor explains the basic principles of cheesemaking clearly.
• Tastings: Enjoy a generous sampling of your homemade cheeses, including fresh and pressed varieties.
• Take-home gear: Leave with two cheeses, a cheesecloth, rennet, calcium, and recipes emailed afterward.
• Small group: Limited to just 10 participants to ensure personalized attention.
• Inspiration to continue: The experience encourages experimentation at home.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Cheese-Making Experience in the Heart of Amsterdam

If you’re looking for a practical, interactive activity that captures a piece of Dutch culinary tradition, this cheese-making workshop offers both. It’s hosted in De Kaasserie, a welcoming space where you’ll immediately feel encouraged to get your hands dirty and learn something new. For travelers interested in food craft, this is a rare chance to create something tangible and delicious yourself.

The workshop begins with an introduction to De Kaasserie and the day’s agenda, giving you context about the craft of cheesemaking. You’ll learn about the two basic types of milk coagulation — acid-coagulated and rennet-coagulated — foundational knowledge that opens the door to understanding how aged cheeses develop their flavor and texture. Using only one liter of supermarket milk per type, you’ll see firsthand how simple ingredients can produce something fresh and satisfying.

The instructor guides you through making two kinds of cheese: an acid-coagulated cheese, often similar to farmer’s cheese or ricotta, and a rennet-coagulated cheese, which forms the basis for more complex, aged varieties. It’s fascinating to see how adding herbs and spices can transform your cheese, offering a playful aspect to the craft. This part of the class invites plenty of experimentation, making each participant’s cheeses unique.

Once your cheeses are ready, you’ll enjoy a tasting session of your creations—both the fresh, soft cheeses and a pressed version. The tasting isn’t just about flavor; it’s about appreciating the fresh quality of your work and the potential that lies in cheese-making at home. The instructor emphasizes that once you understand the basics, you can venture into more complex recipes, including aged cheeses, with confidence.

The Practical Takeaways

What makes this experience particularly valuable is the educational component. Participants receive not only their two cheeses but also the necessary supplies—rennet and calcium—and a comprehensive recipe emailed afterwards. This means you leave with a clear starting point for your cheese adventures, whether at home or in a future kitchen experiment.

The class is designed for small groups, limited to 10, which ensures everyone gets hands-on attention and personalized tips. Although children under 16 are not permitted, the workshop is suitable for adults of all skill levels who are curious about food craft. It’s a relaxed environment, perfect for those who enjoy learning practical skills and tasting delicious results.

What to Expect on the Day

You’ll meet at De Kaasserie, a casual and cozy spot that serves as the perfect backdrop for a culinary workshop. The session lasts about three hours, giving ample time for instruction, practice, and tasting without feeling rushed. Throughout the experience, the guides speak several languages, including English, Spanish, French, and Dutch, making it accessible to international visitors.

Depending on your chosen option, the starting time may vary, but the workshop concludes back at the same meeting point, with plenty of time afterward to explore the neighborhood or enjoy local eats in De Hallen. Keep in mind that the experience doesn’t include coffee or alcoholic drinks, so plan to enjoy your cheeses with a simple cup of tea or on their own.

The Value of This Experience

At $131 per person, the price is reasonable considering the hands-on nature of the workshop, the quality of instruction, and the takeaway cheeses and supplies. It’s a unique way to connect with Dutch culture through food, especially for travelers who love to cook or want an authentic, tactile experience. You’ll walk away not only with your own cheeses but also with a newfound confidence to craft cheese at home, which can be both fun and rewarding.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This workshop suits curious food lovers, amateur cooks, and anyone eager to learn a new skill. If you’ve always been interested in how cheese is made or want to discover a craft that can be enjoyed for years to come, this class is a perfect fit. It’s especially good for those who appreciate hands-on experiences and tasting their own creations.

It’s worth noting that if you’re traveling with children under 16 or have lactose intolerance, this workshop might not be suitable. Also, if you’re after a purely social or casual activity, you might find this more educational than a festive tasting tour.

FAQs

Is there a specific start time I need to be aware of?
Yes, the workshop lasts three hours, and the start time depends on the option you book. Be sure to check availability when reserving.

What languages are spoken during the workshop?
Guides speak English, Spanish, French, and Dutch, ensuring clear communication for most international travelers.

Does the experience include drinks?
No, the workshop does not include coffee or alcohol. You are encouraged to enjoy your cheeses with tea or on their own.

What do I take home?
Participants leave with two cheeses they made, a cheesecloth, rennet, calcium, and recipes emailed afterward to continue cheesemaking at home.

Is this experience suitable for children?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 16 due to the nature of the activity.

How many people will be in my group?
Groups are limited to 10 participants, allowing for personalized guidance.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Is the location easy to find?
Yes, meeting at De Kaasserie next to De Hallen makes it accessible, especially if you’re exploring the trendy North Holland area.

Will I have the skills to make cheese at home afterward?
Absolutely. The instructor explains the basics clearly, and with the recipes and supplies provided, you’ll be ready to craft cheese again at home.

To sum it up, this cheese-making workshop in Amsterdam offers a rare chance to get hands-on with a craft that’s as old as civilization itself. You’ll learn, taste, and create, leaving with practical skills and delicious cheeses. It’s perfect for curious travelers who enjoy food adventures and want an authentic, memorable experience that connects them with Dutch culinary traditions. Whether you’re a foodie or simply looking for a fun, educational activity, this workshop delivers both substance and flavor in a warm, welcoming setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: