Culinary Personal & Professional Enrichment

Culinary Continuing Ed Classes

Discover your inner chef by exploring our culinary classes. Learn about good food, good ingredients and good preparation techniques while having lots of fun. From cooking basics to wine and cheese pairing, baking to learning how to cook flavorful dishes, we offer something for everyone. 

To register, select "Register and Pay for Continuing Education" under the Registration Selection.

For more information call the Continuing Education at (248) 232-4167 or (248) 232-4150.

Classes available

Pasta Fresca for Children (6-16 years old)

Back by popular demand, Alumni Chef, Kim Marks-Ball and OCC Chef, Dawnmarie Yelcho, CHE, MS., will educate students about the art of “fresca” which means “fresh” and is commonly created with uncooked ingredients. During this informative and lively culinary demonstration, participants will roll and shape different types of pasta varieties and learn how to make tasty marinara, alfredo, and palomino sauces.  In addition to tasting these homemade delights, participants will learn tips and tricks to garnish their pasta dishes with seasonal toppings and flavors. 

  • Registration Code: CULN-1085-T0201
  • Location: Woodward Corners, 30955 Woodward Ave #305, Royal Oak, MI 48073
  • Date: Saturday, February 3, 2024 | 10:00am-12:00pm
  • Fee: $55
  • Driving Directions

Register Online


Spring Cookie Creations for Children (6-16 years old)

Learn decorating techniques in this hands-on class using royal icing on sugar cookies. Participants will increase their knowledge of the do’s & don’ts of filling, icing, coloring, and the use of pastry bags.  Our expert cookie designer will share her baking and decorating secrets for creating eye-catching, delicious cookies! Students leave with their own decorated cookies!  Cookies and royal icing provided. Students will be able to taste all items.

  • Registration Code: CULN-1090-T0201
  • Location: Woodward Corners, 30955 Woodward Ave #305, Royal Oak, MI 48073
  • Date: Saturday, March 16, 2024 | 10:00am-12:00pm
  • Fee: $55
  • Driving Directions

Register Online


Italian Extravaganza for Adult & Child (Ages 6-16)

Join us for an Italian extravaganza alongside Alumni Chef, Kim Marks-Ball and OCC Chef, Dawnmarie Yelcho, CHE, MS., in creating a complete Italian meal! Students will learn proper pasta cooking methods, create delicious sauces and homemade meatballs and bake homemade rolls. In addition to this informative cooking class, students will take home recipes, and explore informative tips and tricks featuring seasonal toppings that can enhance any meal. Students will taste and enjoy their creations. *Note: Both adult & child must register & pay separately - two children max per adult.*

  • Registration Code: CULN-1084-T0201
  • Location: First Floor Demonstration Kitchen, Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital, 6777 West Maple Road, West Bloomfield, MI 48322
  • Date: Saturday, January 27, 2024 | 10:00am-12:00pm
  • Fee: $55
  • Driving Directions

Register Online


Heart Healthy Cooking

February is American Heart Month! Experience ways to live a heart-healthy lifestyle at HFH demonstration kitchen. It’s the perfect backdrop to learn from OCC’s resident chef and registered dietician, Dawnmarie Yelcho, as she shares tips and tricks for practicing self-care as it relates to food choices and lifestyle.  She’s motivated to show you how easy it can be!  Participants will learn how to make a Greek whitefish with a cucumber salsa, lemon dill chicken, Italian lentil burgers, and healthy sides to accompany them!  All the items are DASH-friendly and in compliance with a dietary program to prevent high blood pressure. Students will be able to taste all items.

  • Registration Code: CULN-1086-T0201
  • Location: First Floor Demonstration Kitchen, Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital, 6777 West Maple Road, West Bloomfield, MI 48322
  • Date: Thursday, February 8, 2024 | 11:00am-1:00pm
  • Fee: $40
  • Driving Directions

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Cooking with Healthy Substitutions 

In this demonstration, participants will gain confidence in making more informed dietary substitutions.  Learn how to swap out ingredients to comply with dietary restrictions, or use up what’s in the pantry, or what to do when you simply run out of an ingredient.  Chef Dawnmarie will demonstrate a healthier Mac and Cheese, a high nutrient meatloaf, roasted root vegetable mashed potatoes, and much more!   Students will be able to taste all items.

  • Registration Code: CULN-1087-T0201
  • Location: First Floor Demonstration Kitchen, Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital, 6777 West Maple Road, West Bloomfield, MI 48322
  • Date: Monday, February 12, 2024 | 6:00pm-8:00pm
  • Fee: $40
  • Driving Directions

Register Online


Preparing Winter Soups

It’s winter soup season! Get cozy while learning to make three, easy, main course soups that will warm your soul and delight your guests on a chilly night.  In this demonstration, students will learn to make butternut squash soup, roasted root vegetable chicken soup, and Italian wedding soup.  Students will be able to taste all items.

  • Registration Code: CULN-1089-T0201
  • Location: First Floor Demonstration Kitchen, Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital, 6777 West Maple Road, West Bloomfield, MI 48322
  • Date: Monday, February 26, 2024 | 11:00am-1:00pm
  • Fee: $40
  • Driving Directions

Register Online


Nutrition through the Human Life Cycle

From pregnancy to senior years, participants will learn about the effects of dietary choices during pregnancy, infancy, toddler & teen years, adulthood, and senior years.  The nutritional choices we make today affect not only our present health but the health of our future selves and/or those we care for.  We will discuss tips and tricks that enhance overall health and wellness throughout our life cycle.  Chef Dawnmarie will demonstrate a few family favorite recipes which will appeal to not only your pickiest of eaters, but to everyone in your family; no matter their age!   Students will be able to taste all food.

  • Registration Code: CULN-1091-T0201
  • Location: First Floor Demonstration Kitchen, Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital, 6777 West Maple Road, West Bloomfield, MI 48322
  • Date: Friday, March 22, 2024 | 1:00pm-3:00pm
  • Fee: $40
  • Driving Directions

Register Online


Tea Party Classics, a Royal Treat 

Join us for this hands-on class and learn about the traditions associated with constructing a traditional tea party. Students will create assorted sandwiches, garnishes, mock Devonshire cream and lemon curd to go with scones.  Learn how to get creative with finger desserts such as madeleine, mini cupcakes, tarts and brownies. Tiered displays and serving items will be used to achieve the full effect of a tea party presentation. To top off the evening, participants will sample and enjoy all of their delicious creations. *Note: Bring an apron, cutting board, and a serrated/bread knife.*

  • Registration Code: CULN-1093-T0201
  • Location: Oakland Community College, Orchard Ridge Campus, Building: J, Room: 130
  • Date:  Tuesday, April 23, 2024 | 6:00pm-8:30pm
  • Fee: $75
  • Driving Directions

Register Online