Any pastry chef schools you'd recommend?

Hey, guys! I'm super into baking and I want to become a pastry chef in the future. Are there any college programs or specialized schools you'd recommend for aspiring pastry chefs?

Hi there! It's exciting to hear about your passion for baking and your goal of becoming a pastry chef. There are a variety of college programs and specialized schools that offer top-notch pastry arts educations. Here are some recommendations to consider:

1. The Culinary Institute of America (CIA): The CIA is widely regarded as one of the top culinary schools in the world and has a specialized baking and pastry arts program. They offer both an Associate's degree and a Bachelor's degree in Baking and Pastry Arts. Their campuses are located in Hyde Park, New York; St. Helena, California; and San Antonio, Texas.

2. Johnson & Wales University (JWU): JWU has an excellent baking and pastry arts program, available at both its Providence, Rhode Island and Charlotte, North Carolina campuses. They offer Associate's, Bachelor's, and even Master's degrees in baking and pastry arts.

3. The International Culinary Center (ICC): The ICC offers a Professional Pastry Arts program, which covers a wide range of pastry techniques, including bread baking, cake decorating, and chocolate work. The school is located in New York City.

4. Le Cordon Bleu: Le Cordon Bleu is a worldwide network of culinary schools with a strong reputation for pastry arts education. Though they no longer have U.S. campuses, studying at one of their international locations, such as Paris, London, or Sydney, can provide an exciting opportunity to immerse yourself in a different culinary culture while developing your pastry skills.

5. Kendall College: Kendall College is located in Chicago, Illinois, and offers an Associate's degree in Baking and Pastry Arts, focusing on both classical techniques and innovative approaches.

When choosing a pastry arts program, consider factors such as location, program duration, tuition costs, and the specific curriculum offered. In addition, connecting with alumni from these programs or reaching out to professionals in the field can provide valuable insights into which program best aligns with your goals. Good luck as you pursue your dream of becoming a pastry chef!