Culinary Offerings

At a Glance

��ͷ��app Community Education offers fun, educational, non-credit culinary experiences! These include hands-on enrichment classes, demonstrations, dinners, special nights out, team building and youth programs.

Local chefs and food experts share their knowledge on a variety of topics and experiences. As the community’s state-of-the-art learning center for culinary education, ��ͷ��app invites people of all ages and skills to join us and explore the offerings in each category below.

You are encouraged to register early (at least one week in advance of class start date) as many classes fill quickly. For more information, call 217-786-2432 or email Community.Education@llcc.edu.

To register for culinary classes, call 217-786-2292.

More Registration Info

Dinners at Bistro Verde

These dinners are multi-course dining experiences (not hands-on classes). The chef offers remarks on the menu selection for each course. One glass of wine, spirits or beer will be served with each course. Participants must be 21 to register. Please note that registrations will be processed in the order received.

Waiting List

If you would liked to be placed on a waiting list for dinners that are currently full, please email Jennifer Lewis or call 217-786-2433.

Spring 2025 Dinners

All spring 2025 dinners are currently full. If you would liked to be placed on a waiting list, please email Jennifer Lewis or call 217-786-2433.

Japanese Cuisine - FULL

Local restaurateur Dave Matthews is bringing his love and expertise of Japanese food to ��ͷ��app. Your senses will be captivated by this multi-course dinner that will take you on a journey through Japanese regional and traditional cuisine.

Instructor: Chef Dave Matthews
Date: Friday, Jan. 31, 2025
Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Location: Bistro Verde, Workforce Careers Center, W1103
Fee: $89

Carnival Celebration - FULL

Chef Howard returns for his popular Mardi Gras-Cajun inspired dinner. After graduating from the Culinary Institute of America, Howard spent seven years in New Orleans and later in Springfield, IL he developed “Gumbo Ya Yas.” Let’s celebrate this colorful evening with his famous gumbo!

Instructor: Chef Howard Seidel
Date: Friday, Feb. 28, 2025
Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Location: Bistro Verde, Workforce Careers Center, W1103
Fee: $89

Street Food - FULL

Chef Sean Keeley, Director of Catering with Arena Food Service here in Springfield is joining us for an evening packed with flavor. Sean is bringing a menu inspired by street foods from around the world with new flavors.

Instructor: Chef Sean Keeley
Date: Friday, March 21, 2025
Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Location: Bistro Verde, Workforce Careers Center, W1103
Fee: $89

Coast to Coast - FULL

As chef owner of Providers Supper Club, Kevin hosts multi-course pop-up dinners all over the Midwest aiming to bring people together. In this seafood packed dinner, he is bringing coastal flavors from all around the United States in hopes to bring people together in our Bistro Verde.

Instructor: Chef Kevin Sullivan
Date: Friday, April 11, 2025
Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Location: Bistro Verde, Workforce Careers Center, W1103
Fee: $89

Hands-on Baking Classes

Our baking and pastry classes provide the perfect opportunity to learn to bake breads, pies, pastries and more — just like a professional baker! For ages 19 and over.

Spring 2025

Puff Pastry Desserts - Full

Learn how to make puff pastry from scratch and how to use pre-made pastry to create a variety of desserts.

Instructor: Nicole Swartz
Date: Saturday, April 5
Time: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1121
Ages: 19 and over
Cost: $69
Course code: CEW 500-006

Tarts and Galettes

Tarts are a close cousin to the classic American pie, and galettes are similar to a tart. However, the crusts, the fillings and the baking methods between tarts and galettes create two distinct desserts. Explore the variety with us.

Instructor: Stephanie Warren
Date: Saturday, April 5
Time: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
Ages: 19 and over
Cost: $69
Course code: CEW 500-007

Cream Puffs and Eclairs

It all starts with pate a choux dough that is piped and baked until golden. Then the light and airy buns are filled with cream. Learn the techniques to make these popular pastries.

Instructor: Lindee Hall-Pratt
Date: Saturday, April 19
Time: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
Ages: 19 and over
Cost: $69
Course code: CEW 500-008

Spring Desserts

Start springtime off right with vibrant desserts such as lemon pomegranate bars that will surely be the hit at the next family gathering or cookout.

Instructor: Stephanie Warren
Date: Saturday, April 19
Time: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1121
Ages: 19 and over
Cost: $69
Course code: CEW 500-009

Fall 2025

Pretzels and Dips

Learn the essential techniques for creating delicious homemade pretzels, including preparing dough, rolling, shaping, boiling and baking. You'll also whip up a variety of dips to pair with your freshly baked creations.

Instructor: Lindee Hall Pratt
Date: Saturday, Sept. 6
Time: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1121
Ages: 19 and over
Cost: $69
Course code: CEW 500-001

Macarons

One of our most popular classes is back! In this session, you’ll learn the secrets to mastering this classic French dessert. Whether you're a dessert enthusiast or a beginner, you’ll gain the skills to impress every time.

Instructor: Nicole Swartz
Date: Saturday, Sept. 13
Time: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1121
Ages: 19 and over
Cost: $69
Course code: CEW 500-002

Crème Brulée

Master the timeless elegance of crème brûlée, from achieving the smoothest custard to creating that signature caramelized sugar topping.

Instructor: Stephanie Warren
Date: Saturday, Sept. 13
Time: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
Ages: 19 and over
Cost: $69
Course code: CEW 500-003

The Bread Code: Unlocking the Science of Dough

Delve into the science of bread baking and uncover the secrets behind perfect dough. This class will guide you through fermentation, gluten development, and baking techniques, giving you the knowledge to create exceptional loaves with confidence

Instructor: Jolene Lamb
Date: Saturday, Sept. 27
Time: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1121
Ages: 19 and over
Cost: $69
Course code: CEW 500-004

Sticky Fingers

Get ready to roll-up your sleeves and indulge your sweet tooth. Learn the art of making soft, gooey cinnamon rolls from scratch, complete with a rich cream cheese frosting.

Instructor: Lindee Hall-Pratt
Date: Saturday, Oct. 4
Time: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1121
Ages: 19 and over
Cost: $69
Course code: CEW 500-005

Baking with Bacon

A fun and flavorful twist on classic baking! From sweet to savory and everything in between, discover how to infuse crispy, smoky bacon into irresistible baked goods.

Instructor: Nicole Swartz
Date: Saturday, Oct. 11
Time: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1121
Ages: 19 and over
Cost: $69
Course code: CEW 500-006

Sourdough Breads and More

Bake flavorful artisan loaves and explore creative ways to use discard in delicious recipes. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced baker, this class will help you build confidence in working with naturally leavened dough.

Instructor: Charlyn Fargo-Ware
Date: Saturday, Oct. 18
Time: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1121
Ages: 19 and over
Cost: $69
Course code: CEW 500-007

Store-Bought to Showstopper

Transform everyday store-bought ingredients into stunning, gourmet desserts that will impress any crowd. In this class, you’ll learn clever hacks and techniques to elevate simple items into masterpieces, all without spending hours in the kitchen.

Instructor: Stephanie Warren
Date: Saturday, Oct. 18
Time: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
Ages: 19 and over
Cost: $69
Course code: CEW 500-008

Macarons

Instructor: Nicole Swartz
Date: Saturday, Nov. 8
Time: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1121
Ages: 19 and over
Cost: $69
Course code: CEW 500-009

Dog Treats

Join Natural Artistry owners Jim and Marty Boosinger in the kitchen to learn how to make a batch of treats for your four-legged friends.

Instructor: Jim Boosinger
Date: Saturday, Nov. 8
Time: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
Ages: 19 and over
Cost: $69
Course code: CEW 500-010

Thanksgiving Pie

Learn essential pie decorating techniques to take your homemade pies to the next level. From elegant lattice tops to beautifully designed edges, you'll discover ways to make your pies as stunning as they are delicious.

Instructor: Teela Markley
Date: Saturday, Nov. 22
Time: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1121
Ages: 19 and over
Cost: $69
Course code: CEW 500-011

Holiday Candies

Spend the morning transforming sugar and chocolate into your own handmade candy creations.

Instructor: Lindee Hall-Pratt
Date: Saturday, Dec. 6
Time: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1121
Ages: 19 and over
Cost: $69
Course code: CEW 500-012

Holiday Cookie Platter

It’s the most wonderful time of the year to bake and that’s exactly what we’ll do in this class! Everyone will bake a variety of delicious cookies that are sure to become new holiday favorites. Then, you’ll create a beautifully arranged cookie platter to share and enjoy.

Instructor: Lindee Hall-Pratt
Date: Thursday, Dec. 11
Time: 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
Ages: 19 and over
Cost: $69
Course code: CEW 500-013

Yule Log

Bûche de Noël, or Yule log cake, is a cherished Christmas tradition. In this class, we’ll guide you step by step as you make, bake, fill, roll, and decorate your very own festive creation.

Instructor: Stephanie Warren
Date: Saturday, Dec. 13
Time: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1121
Ages: 19 and over
Cost: $69
Course code: CEW 500-014

Hands-on Cooking Classes

To be a great cook, you must first learn the basics! Join our culinary instructor for hands-on cooking classes on the skills every cook needs in their repertoire. For ages 19 and over.

Spring 2025

Advanced Knife Skills

Master the art of precision in our Advanced Knife Skills class, designed for seasoned cooks looking to elevate their culinary techniques. You’ll learn advanced cuts, including brunoise, chiffonade and oblique, while also mastering the essentials of knife care, sharpening and honing to keep your blades razor-sharp. This hands-on experience will not only refine your skills but also transform the way you approach ingredients in the kitchen.

Instructor: Ty Bergman
Date: Thursday, April 10
Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
Ages: 19 and over
Cost: $69
Course code: CEW 500-030

Indonesian - Full

A collection of various regional culinary traditions come together in the nation of Indonesia. These traditions bring together rich flavors in dishes, such as nasi goreng and chicken satay.

Instructor: Adam Maas
Date: Thursday, April 17
Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
Ages: 19 and over
Cost: $69
Course code: CEW 500-017

Farm Fresh Produce Featuring Vegetarian Cuisine

Chef Kevin uses fresh seasonal local produce to create balanced vegetarian meals.

Instructor: Kevin Sullivan
Date: Friday, April 18
Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
Ages: 19 and over
Cost: $69
Course code: CEW 500-018

Freezer Meals - Full

Spend the evening in the kitchen prepping all the components of a meal and packaging portions in containers to freeze. When you’re looking for an easy weeknight meal and trying to avoid processed foods, you can just reach for a freezer meal. Participants will work in groups to prepare, package and take-home freezer meals.

Instructor: Kim Carter
Date: Thursday, April 24
Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
Ages: 19 and over
Cost: $69
Course code: CEW 500-019

Fall 2025

Herb Mastery

Discover the secrets of culinary herbs, from basil to thyme, and learn how to use them to cook vibrant and flavorful dishes.

Instructor: Jan Dowell
Date: Thursday, Sept. 4
Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
Ages: 19 and over
Cost: $69
Course code: CEW 500-015

Sauce It Up

Discover the secrets to creating rich, restaurant-quality sauces that elevate any dish, adding depth, balance, and flavor to your cooking.

Instructor: Ty Bergman
Date: Thursday, Sept. 11
Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
Ages: 19 and over
Cost: $69
Course code: CEW 500-016

Cooking on a Budget

As food costs rise, it can be a challenge to prepare affordable meals. Learn how to stretch your food dollar farther with tips and recipes to make meals that taste like you spared no expense.

Instructor: ��ͷ��app Staff
Date: Thursday, Sept. 18
Time: 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
Ages: 19 and over
Cost: $69
Course code: CEW 500-017

International Sauces

Discover the flavors of the world through the art of sauce-making! In this class, you'll learn to create a variety of international sauces that will elevate your cooking and bring global flair to your kitchen.

Instructor: Adam Maas
Date: Friday, Sept. 19
Time: 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
Ages: 19 and over
Cost: $69
Course code: CEW 500-018

Cooking with Cast-Iron

Learn how to create incredible dishes with this timeless kitchen tool while discovering expert tips for seasoning, cleaning, and maintaining your pans. Bring your own cast iron skillet or borrow one of ours and experience the versatility of cast iron firsthand.

Instructor: Kim Carter
Date: Thursday, Sept. 25
Time: 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
Ages: 19 and over
Cost: $69
Course code: CEW 500-019

Salad For Dinner

Salads can be more than just a side! Learn to use a variety of ingredients to make a balanced salad for any meal.

Instructor: Jan Dowell
Date: Thursday, Oct. 9
Time: 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
Ages: 19 and over
Cost: $69
Course code: CEW 500-020

Savor the Soups

Join Chef 'Mama' Kim for another beloved class where she shares her secrets to crafting hearty and comforting soups that warm both the heart and soul. Don't miss the chance to learn how to prepare a variety of delicious, crowd-pleasing recipes.

Instructor: Kim Carter
Date: Thursday, Oct. 16
Time: 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
Ages: 19 and over
Cost: $69
Course code: CEW 500-021

Comfort Foods

Join us for a warm and delicious cooking experience that’s all about classic, feel-good flavors! This class features homestyle favorites like crispy buttermilk fried chicken, creamy mac and cheese, and decadent red velvet cake with cream cheese icing.

Instructor: Kim Carter
Date: Thursday, Oct. 30
Time: 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
Ages: 19 and over
Cost: $69
Course code: CEW 500-022

Holiday Side Dishes

Learn to create flavorful, festive favorites that will impress your guests and complete your holiday table.

Instructor: ��ͷ��app Staff
Date: Thursday, Nov. 20
Time: 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
Ages: 19 and over
Cost: $69
Course code: CEW 500-023

Gourmet Pizza Night

Elevate your pizza game! Craft artisanal pizzas with gourmet toppings, flavorful sauces, and perfectly baked crusts in our stone-based ovens. A delicious, hands-on experience for pizza lovers!

Instructor: Teela Markley
Date: Thursday, Dec. 4
Time: 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
Ages: 19 and over
Cost: $69
Course code: CEW 500-024

Parent & Me

Special Night Out

Want to spend a fun night out with your friends or significant other? Then join us in the kitchen for a Special Night Out watching chef demonstrations, enjoying a cocktail, glass of wine or craft beer and preparing some of the dishes on the menu for a fun and tasty night out. Spirits, wine or beer is served; must be 21 to register. Alcohol is limited to two drinks per person.

Spring 2025

Italian - Full

Chef Teela will show you easy methods to make gourmet sauces to go with your favorite pasta while enjoying a glass of Italian wine.

Instructor: Teela Markley
Date: Thursday, April 3
Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Ages: 21 and over
Cost: $79
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
Course Code: CEW 500-023

Tacos and Tequila - Full

Prepare a variety of tacos to share with friends and learn all about the best Tequilas for margaritas!

Instructor: Nico Paz
Date: Friday, April 25
Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Ages: 21 and over
Cost: $79
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
Course Code: CEW 500-024

English Fare

World traveler chef Bradley Teel will share some of his favorite recipes to create English classics, such as fish and chips, pasties and sticky pudding. Enjoy a stout beer with this classic menu.

Instructor: Bradley Teel
Date: Friday, May 9
Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Ages: 21 and over
Cost: $79
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
Course Code: CEW 500-025

Summer 2025

Mother’s Day Brunch

Spoil the mom in your life to a fun day making delicious savory and sweet treats to make any brunch special, all while sipping a sweet drink.

Instructor: Teela Markley
Date: Saturday, May 10
Time: 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Ages: 21 and over
Cost: $79
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
Course Code: CEW 500-026

Fall 2025

Farmers Market to the Dinner Table

Take a seasonal journey from the market to the table! Explore fresh, local ingredients, then transform them into a delicious farm-to-table feast.
Instructor: Kevin Sulivan

Date: Friday, Sept. 5
Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Ages: 21 and over
Cost: $79
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
Course Code: CEW 500-025

Coffee, Cocktails and Confections

Shake up your evening as you explore the perfect trio: coffee, baking, and cocktails! Discover how to incorporate rich coffee flavors into your baked goods, then mix and sip on expertly crafted cocktail that pair beautifully with your creations. It’s the ultimate blend of flavors, fun, and flair—perfect for a night out with friends!

Instructor: Dru Dunlap
Date: Friday, Sept. 19
Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Ages: 21 and over
Cost: $79
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1121
Course Code: CEW 500-026

Octoberfest

Enjoy the flavors of Oktoberfest with friends! Cook hearty German dishes and savor a perfectly paired beer to complement your meal.

Instructor: Paul Maisel
Date: Thursday, Oct. 2
Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Ages: 21 and over
Cost: $79
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
Course Code: CEW 500-027

Harry Potter

One thing is for sure, there are many fun and flavorful recipes to be found in Harry Potter inspired cookbooks. Sip on a cold “Butterbeer” while join us in our kitchen, located at platform 9 ¾.

Instructor: Dustin Coons
Date: Friday, Oct. 17
Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Ages: 21 and over
Cost: $79
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
Course Code: CEW 500-028

French Bistro

Step into the charm of a French bistro, where you'll craft a menu inspired by French classics while enjoying a glass of wine.

Instructor: David Radwine
Date: Thursday, Oct. 23
Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Ages: 21 and over
Cost: $79
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
Course Code: CEW 500-029

Olive Me Crazy-Greek

Fall in love with the vibrant flavors of Greek cooking! Learn how to prepare classic dishes that celebrate the Mediterranean's finest ingredients, including olives, fresh herbs, and hearty grains. This class will transport your taste buds straight to Greece!

Instructor: ��ͷ��app Staff
Date: Friday, Oct. 24
Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Ages: 21 and over
Cost: $79
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
Course Code: CEW 500-030

Bourbon Smash

Bourbon, bacon, and brown sugar take center stage in this indulgent and popular class. Explore the art of cooking with bourbon while learning about crafting a perfectly balanced cocktail.

Instructor: Dustin Coons
Date: Thursday, Nov. 13
Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Ages: 21 and over
Cost: $79
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
Course Code: CEW 500-031

Girls Night Out-Gingerbread Cookie Decorating

Gather your girlfriends for a fun and festive evening of gingerbread cookie decorating! Celebrate National Gingerbread Cookie Day by exploring your creativity with colorful icings, sprinkles, and edible décor to craft your own edible masterpieces.

Instructor: Stephanie Warren
Date: Friday, Nov. 21
Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Ages: 21 and over
Cost: $79
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1121
Course Code: CEW 500-032

Youth

Designed specifically for budding young chefs ages 8-18, these classes are the perfect opportunity for youth to explore their interests and build their culinary skills.

Spring 2025

Tacos and Salsa

Tacos and salsa are a great go to dinner that you can learn to make from scratch and impress your family and friends.

Instructor: Lakesha Jackson
Date: Saturday, April 26
Time: 9:30 a.m to 12:30 p.m.
Ages: 8-18
Cost: $69
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
Course Code: YES 500-004

Cupcakes for Mom

Bake a batch of delicious cupcakes, and then decorate and package them to look like a beautiful bouquet of flowers to give to mom on her special day.

Instructor: Channing Fullaway-Johnson
Date: Saturday, May 10
Time: 9:30 a.m to 12:30 p.m.
Ages: 8-18
Cost: $69
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1121
Course Code: YES 500-003

Summer 2025

College for Kids (CFK) will offer a variety of culinary camps. Summer CFK registration is now open. Visit Summer College For Kids for details!

Fall 2025

Asian Take Out

Celebrate National Fried Rice Day by learning to make some of the most popular Asian takeout dishes! Young chefs will cook up flavorful fried rice and other takeout favorites.

Instructor: Channing Fullaway-Johnson
Date: Saturday, Sept. 20
Time: 9:30 a.m to 12:30 p.m.
Ages: 10-18
Cost: $69
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
Course Code: YES 500-001

Halloween Treats

Calling all ghouls, ghosts and goblins for a fun and festive day creating spooky Halloween treats. Costumes can be worn to class if children are able to work safely in the kitchen while wearing them.

Instructor: Lakesha Jackson
Date: Saturday, Oct. 25
Time: 9:30 a.m to 12:30 p.m.
Ages: 8-12
Cost: $69
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1121
Course Code: YES 500-002

Pizza

Get ready to knead, shape, and top your very own personal pizza with all your favorite ingredients.

Instructor: Teela Markley
Date: Saturday, Nov. 15
Time: 9:30 a.m to 12:30 p.m.
Ages: 10-18
Cost: $69
Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1121
Course Code: YES 500-003

Gift certificates

Gift certificates for Culinary Offerings have become popular to give as gifts! Please call the ��ͷ��app Community Education office at 217-786-2432 if you are interested in this option.

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