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Whisked Away Kansas City

a curated baking getaway for passionate bakers

by The Bake Fest

Kansas City, Missouri • May 1-3, 2026 • Limited to 40 Bakers

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Treat yourself to an unforgettable weekend celebrating the art of baking like never before.

Whisked Away Kansas City is a boutique baking getaway curated by the founder of The Bake Fest, Stefani Pollack. Every moment has been thoughtfully designed with experiences you simply can’t book on your own.

Exclusive Access, Unforgettable Experiences

  • A hands-on pie workshop led by Erin Jeanne McDowell, the industry’s "Queen of Pie" and the newest Contributing Editor at Bake from Scratch magazine.
  • A chef-curated welcome dinner at one of Kansas City’s premier culinary landmarks, designed to kick off our weekend with elevated seasonal flavors.
  • The Best of KC Behind-the-Scenes Bakery Tour, a behind-the-scenes journey through Erin’s personal favorite shops featuring private tastings and professional insights.
  • The Saltwell Experience, a destination evening at a historic 1800s farmhouse featuring a heritage grain demonstration and a farm-to-table feast in a walnut grove.
  • Cookie Artistry with Cynthia Raven, an intimate session featuring tailored instruction grouped by skill level to help you master new decorating techniques and artful design.

Your Invitation to an Extra­ordinary Experience

  • Learn directly from top professionals in hands-on workshops.
  • Gain insider access to the world of baking.
  • Build friendships and memories to last a lifetime.

We’ve thought of everything, so you don’t have to

From transportation and meals to immersive experiences, we’re handling every detail so you can relax, learn, and create. Whether you’re an expert baker or just getting started, this weekend will leave you inspired and recharged.
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What a Whisked Away Weekend Feels Like

“I felt like a baking VIP the whole weekend! Every detail was perfectly curated and I would 100% do it again just to experience the magic!”

– Katelyn S.

“I felt important. I felt special. I felt honored to be present. I came back more confident.’

– Loretta W.

“It changed me forever. I learned new skills, honed ones I already had, made long lasting connections and solidified my love of baking.”

– Karen P.

Weekend Highlights

Chef-Curated Welcome Dinner

We believe the best way to start a getaway is around a shared table. On Friday evening, we’ll gather at one of Kansas City’s most celebrated, top-tier restaurants for an unforgettable welcome dinner. This is the official kickoff to our weekend and your first opportunity to connect with your fellow bakers and instructors over incredible food and drinks.
Kansas City is a true hidden gem of the culinary world, and we’ve selected a venue that perfectly reflects the elevated and intentional spirit of Whisked Away. Expect a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere. By the time dessert is served, you’ll have traded stories, made new friends, and set the stage for the hands-on magic beginning the next morning.

Pie Workshop With Erin Jeanne McDowell

When it comes to the science and soul of pie, Erin McDowell is the voice bakers trust. Widely recognized for her mastery of dough structure and technique, Erin has empowered a generation of bakers to move beyond “soggy bottoms” and misshapen slices.
Through her popular Sturdy Pie Challenge and her viral teaching on YouTube, she demonstrates exactly how to achieve that elusive golden, flaky crust and a slice that holds its shape perfectly.
At Whisked Away, Erin will lead a deep dive into the techniques she’s famous for. You’ll walk away with the practical skills and confidence to create pies that are as structurally reliable as they are delicious.

Cookie Artistry With Cynthia Raven

In the world of sugar artistry, Cynthia Raven of Sugar Chat Cookie Studio is a master of precision and storytelling. While her intricate designs are breathtaking, her true gift is her ability to demystify complex decorating techniques for bakers of every skill level.
At Whisked Away, we are committed to an intimate, high-touch learning environment. To ensure Cynthia can meet you exactly where you are, we will be grouping attendees by skill level. Whether you are picking up a piping bag for the first time or you’re a seasoned pro looking to refine your line work, you’ll receive the tailored instruction you need to level up your craft.

Best of KC Behind-the-Scenes Bakery Tour

Kansas City is home to a vibrant and diverse baking scene, and no one knows it better than Kansas City native, Erin Jeanne McDowell. She’s curated her personal favorite bakeries to give you a deep and varied look at the city’s best craftsmanship.
At every stop, you’ll go beyond the front counter for exclusive, behind-the-scenes experiences and guided tastings. You’ll have the opportunity to see how these successful shops operate, hear from the bakers themselves about their signature techniques, and – of course – sample the best of what they have to offer. It’s an inspiring deep dive into the business and the beauty of baking, led by the expertise of one of the best in the industry.

The Saltwell Experience

Step onto the soil of a historic 1800s farmhouse for a destination dining experience that connects the craft of baking to the heritage of the land. Located outside the city, Saltwell Farm Kitchen is a premier destination celebrated for its intentionality and world-class culinary execution. During our time on the property, we’ll explore the grounds to forage for seasonal edible garnishes and gain unique insights into heritage wheat varieties, seeing firsthand the craftsmanship that begins in the soil.
The centerpiece of the evening is a farm-to-table feast served in the farm’s historic walnut grove. This is the ultimate expression of the Saltwell philosophy: an evening of incredible food and fresh air in an atmosphere that feels both exclusive and timeless. It is a rare opportunity to connect with your craft in a setting that is as inspiring as it is delicious.

Heritage Apple Strudel at Strawberry Hill Cultural Center

At the Strawberry Hill Cultural Center, the art of the traditional strudel is a living history. You will be guided by heritage volunteers who have spent their lives perfecting this craft, offering a rare opportunity to learn a technique that has remained virtually unchanged for generations.

The experience focuses on the “long stretch,” a feat of dough physics that requires intuition and a delicate, practiced touch. Working in pairs, you will master the rhythm of pulling a single dough ball until it is as thin as a newspaper, eventually covering the span of an entire table.

This masterclass offers an intimate environment to learn the tactile nuances of elasticity and texture that are impossible to capture through a screen. You will leave Strawberry Hill with the specialized skills and confidence to preserve a legendary craft that is as much about community as it is about the perfect flake.

Meet Your Guides and Experts

Erin Jeanne McDowell

Erin Jeanne McDowell is an author, teacher, and video host specializing in baking. She is the author of The Fearless Baker, Savory Baking, and the bestselling The Book on Pie.
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“Erin is FANTASTIC!!! She’s so enthusiastic about her craft and I love how she really dives into the why behind what she does.”

– Courtney B.

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She writes the Happy Baking newsletter on Substack and hosts the Happy Baking video series on YouTube, where she shares recipes and deep dives into baking science and technique. Erin has appeared as a Baking Coach on The Big Nailed It Baking Challenge on Netflix, and her work has been featured in The New York Times, The Washington Post, Food & Wine, Food Network, Better Homes & Gardens, Food52, and more.

Throughout the weekend, Erin will lead hands-on instruction and guided experiences, with opportunities for learning, conversation, and practical skill building.

Cynthia Raven

Cynthia Raven is a lifelong baker and artist who turned a passion for sugar artistry into a celebrated career. With a Master’s Degree in Adult and Continuing Education and over 20 years in professional development, Cynthia specializes in the science of teaching. She has a unique gift for breaking down complex techniques into actionable steps, ensuring every student finds success.

Since 2019, Cynthia has been an instructor at CookieCon events nationwide and was a featured competitor on Food Network’s Holiday Wars. Her work has appeared on CBS Mornings and in numerous national publications. As the founder of Sugar Chat Cookie Studio, Cynthia merges her background in fine arts with her expertise in adult learning to create a joyful, high-touch environment where bakers of all levels can master the art of the cookie.

Rozz Petrozz & Shantel Grace of Saltwell Farm Kitchen

Saltwell Farm Kitchen is the vision of partners Rozz Petrozz and Shantel Grace who have transformed their historic 1800s farmhouse into a premier culinary destination.

Rozz, a James Beard-nominated chef, is the culinary heart of the farm. He meticulously hand-crafts every menu with a single purpose: to create a magical, intentional dining experience that connects guests to the land and the season.

Working alongside him is Shantel, the farm’s Maître d’, co-owner, and the “magic behind the sparkle.” With years of experience in the hospitality industry and a history of success with celebrated restaurants like Lucky Berry and Ramen Bowls, Shantel ensures that every guest feels the warmth and luxury of the Saltwell homestead.

Together, they have built a space where world-class skill meets genuine hospitality, offering a rare opportunity to see the craftsmanship of food from the soil up in an environment that is as inspiring as it is delicious.

Meet Your Host

Stefani Pollack

Stefani Pollack is the visionary behind The Bake Fest and Cupcake Project. The Bake Fest unites thousands of bakers through premier virtual events, professional development programs, and educational opportunities, while Cupcake Project serves as a go-to resource for creative recipes and baking inspiration. For nearly two decades, Stef has been a trusted voice in the baking community, inspiring bakers to try new techniques, build confidence, and embrace creativity with her approachable and innovative style.
Not only is Stef a seasoned baking expert and avid traveler, but she’s also deeply passionate about fostering meaningful connections. This getaway reflects her love of community, making it the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in baking, share unforgettable experiences, and connect with like-minded enthusiasts. From exclusive bakery tours to hands-on classes, Stef can’t wait to welcome you to this extraordinary weekend.

Itinerary at a Glance

Friday

Afternoon: Arrival & Check-In
Evening: Welcome Dinner

Saturday

Morning: Split Group Activities
  • Pie workshop with Erin Jeanne McDowell
  • Cookie Artistry with Cynthia Raven

Afternoon: Split Group Activities

  • Best of KC Behind-the-Scenes Bakery Tour
  • Heritage apple strudel at Strawberry Hill Cultural Center
Evening: The Saltwell Experience

Sunday

Morning: Split Group Activities*

  • Pie workshop with Erin Jeanne McDowell
  • Cookie Artistry with Cynthia Raven

Afternoon: Split Group Activities*

  • Best of KC Behind-the-Scenes Bakery Tour
  • Heritage apple strudel at Strawberry Hill Cultural Center

*Participants will switch to experience the activities they didn’t do on Saturday.

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Who This Weekend is For

This experience is a good fit if you:
  • Enjoy learning by doing
  • Want time to practice and ask questions, not just observe
  • Care about craft, process, and improvement
  • Value shared meals and conversation as part of the experience

You do not need to be a professional baker.

You do need to be genuinely interested in participating and learning.

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More About the St. Louis Bakery Tour

Discover St. Louis’s Baking Gems

On this exclusive bakery tour, you’ll step into some of St. Louis’s most iconic baking spaces, hear the stories behind their creations, and experience the flavors that make them unforgettable. Led by culinary expert Amanda E. Doyle, this behind-the-scenes journey celebrates the craft, culture, and creativity of baking.

Stops Along the Tour

We’re working on finalizing all of the details – more information coming soon!
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Floriole: French Elegance in Every Bite

Step into the heart of French-inspired baking at Floriole, where rustic pastries, seasonal Midwestern ingredients, and world-renowned croissants take center stage. Floriole’s owner, Sandra Holl, will welcome us with a light lunch and share her journey from a humble Green City Market tent to a celebrated brick-and-mortar bakery. David Liebovitz declares this is the only place he will stop for true croissants when he visits the US from Paris!

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Sweet Mandy B’s: Celebrations in Every Slice

Experience the joy of desserts that have been bringing smiles to Chicagoans since 2002. At Sweet Mandy B’s, renowned pastry chef Sherrie Tan will showcase her incredible custom cakes and give us a peek into the artistry and care behind her celebration-worthy treats. From buttercream flowers to towering confections, you’ll leave inspired to create your own showstoppers.

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Panaderia Nuevo Leon: A Mexican Baking Legacy

Step into the rich history of Panaderia Nuevo Leon, a beloved bakery in the vibrant Pilsen neighborhood. From hand-crafted breads to traditional Mexican pastries, this family-owned bakery has been thriving for over 50 years. We’ll meet the bakers, see vintage equipment in action, and enjoy refreshments next door at Mi Corazon Café, a charming storefront run by the third generation of this baking dynasty. While in Pilsen, we’ll also take a brief walk to admire the stunning murals that line the streets, making this stop a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

Why This Tour Is Special

This isn’t your typical bakery tour—it’s a journey into the heart of St. Louis’s baking culture, crafted just for this retreat. You’ll taste the passion, hear the stories, and experience the magic behind every loaf, pastry, and cake. Each stop on our tour offers something truly special and unforgettable.

Travel and Accommo­dations

Stay in Style at the Ambassador Hotel Kansas City

We’ve reserved a block of rooms at the Ambassador Hotel Kansas City, Autograph Collection, a beautifully restored downtown landmark with distinctive character, modern comfort, and attentive service. Set in the heart of Kansas City, the hotel puts you close to our getaway activities, great coffee, and some of the city’s best food and culture. With stylish rooms and inviting spaces to gather, it’s an easy place to relax and recharge after a full day of baking, exploring, and connecting. If you decide to extend your stay, we’re happy to share recommendations for standout restaurants, bakeries, and local favorites to make the most of your trip.
After registering for Whisked Away Kansas City, you’ll be given a link to reserve your room at our special rate of $219/night.

Alternative Accommodations

If you choose to stay elsewhere in Kansas City, please note that it will be your responsibility to meet the group either at the Ambassador Hotel Kansas City or at the designated destinations on time for each event. Our transportation services will only be available for those departing from and returning to the Ambassador Hotel Kansas City, so staying in our group hotel is the most convenient option to fully enjoy the experience without the worry of arranging additional logistics.

Getting Here

For those arriving by plane, the easiest way to get to the Ambassador Hotel Kansas City from Kansas City International Airport (MCI) is by car. The drive is about 20 miles and typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic. We recommend using ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft for a convenient, direct trip from the airport to the hotel.

Transportation During the Weekend

Once you’ve settled in, you can leave the rest of the transportation planning to us. Throughout the getaway, all transportation will be covered, including ride shares and a private charter bus for our group excursions. Whether we’re heading to dinner, our classes, exploring Kansas City’s best bakeries, or heading out for a farm-to-table experience, everything has been arranged to ensure that the logistics are stress-free. Your only job is to enjoy the journey and experience everything our baking getaway has to offer!

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Getaway Cost & Payment

The cost for Whisked Away Kansas City is $2,400.

What's Included

  • All Meals and Drinks
  • Exclusive Hands-On Classes
  • Behind-the-Scenes Tours
  • Stress-Free Transportation
  • Swag!

NOT Included

  • Transportation to Kansas City
  • Airport Transfers
  • Accommodations
  • Some Drinks
  • Travel Insurance
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All Meals

  • Friday Welcome Dinner (drinks included) at a top Kansas City restaurant.
  • Saturday Lunch.
  • Saturday Dinner (drinks included).
  • Sunday Lunch with your new friends.
  • Breakfast Pastries on Saturday and Sunday mornings, plus snacks throughout the weekend.

Exclusive Hands-On Classes

  • A pie-making class run by expert Erin Jeanne McDowell.
  • A cookie artistry class run by expert Cynthia Raven.
  • A third expert-led class (to be announced soon).
Behind-the-Scenes Tours
  • A private bakery tour, curated and led by Erin McDowell, featuring iconic Kansas City bakeries.

Stress-Free Transportation

  • All transportation within Kansas City on a private charter bus.
What’s Not Included
  • Airport Transfers: Participants will need to arrange their own transportation from the airport to the group hotel.
  • Accommodations: While we’ve reserved a block of rooms at the Ambassador Hotel Kansas City, accommodation costs are not included in the getaway fee. Please book directly through our room block.
  • Some Drinks: Drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) are included at the Friday Welcome Dinner and the Saturday dinner, but any other drinks (including during activities) must be purchased separately.
  • Personal Travel Insurance: We highly recommend purchasing trip insurance to protect your investment in case of unforeseen circumstances.

Deposit & Payment Details

  • Initial Deposit: A $550 deposit is required to secure your spot. Please note that this deposit is non-refundable.
  • Final Payment: The remaining payment is due by March 15th. You can pay this by credit card, and we will send a final invoice closer to the due date. If you prefer to split the remaining amount into smaller payments, please reach out to us at hello@thebakefest.com, and we will be happy to arrange a schedule that works for you.

Refund Policy

  • Deposit: The $550 deposit is non-refundable.
  • Final Payment: The final payment is refundable until March 15th. If you need a refund on the final payment, please contact us at hello@thebakefest.com before the March 15th deadline. We want to make this as smooth as possible for you but recommend considering trip insurance for extra peace of mind.

Transfers and Resales

If you find you are unable to attend after signing up, you may transfer or resell your spot to another participant. Please contact us at hello@thebakefest.com for help facilitating the transfer. We’ll guide you through the process and ensure everything is taken care of.

Payment Methods
We accept credit card payments through our secure system. If you need any assistance with making your payments, please reach out to hello@thebakefest.com for support.

Trip Insurance Recommendations

We highly recommend purchasing trip insurance to protect your investment. Trip insurance can help cover unexpected cancellations, medical emergencies, or travel disruptions that may affect your participation in the getaway.

How to Purchase Trip Insurance

  • Shop Around for Quotes: There are several reputable providers that offer trip insurance. You can start by visiting websites like InsureMyTrip.com or Squaremouth.com to compare coverage options from multiple providers and find a plan that fits your needs.
  • Check Your Credit Card Benefits: Some credit cards offer travel insurance as a benefit, particularly higher-tier cards. It may be worth checking if your credit card provides sufficient coverage for this type of trip.
  • Consider the Coverage Details: Make sure your policy covers trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and any travel interruptions. Coverage that specifically allows you to cancel for any reason (“CFAR” policies) can be especially useful for extra peace of mind.

Recommended Providers

  • Allianz Travel Insurance: A well-known provider offering different levels of coverage, including medical and cancellation insurance.
  • Travel Guard by AIG: Offers a variety of plans tailored for different trip needs, including emergency medical coverage.
  • World Nomads: Popular among travelers for covering a wide range of activities and offering flexible plans.

For more details or to purchase trip insurance, you can visit the provider’s website directly, or use comparison sites to help ensure you get the coverage that best fits your needs. If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out to us at hello@thebakefest.com.

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Frequently Asked Questions

General Information

The getaway will take place from May 1-3, 2026. We’ll meet in the lobby of the Ambassador Hotel Kansas City at 5:45 PM on Friday, May 1, and our activities will conclude by 5 PM on Sunday, May 3. If you are leaving Sunday evening, you will need to check out of the hotel earlier in the day, but the hotel can hold your bags while we finish up our activities.

We are keeping this event intimate, with a cap of 40 participants. This small group size ensures a personalized and engaging experience for everyone.

Absolutely! This getaway is designed for bakers of all skill levels, whether you’re just getting started or are an advanced baker looking to refine your techniques. We plan to split some group classes by skill level based on who signs up, so everyone has an experience that matches their comfort level.

Yes, we require a minimum of 15 participants for the getaway to proceed. If we do not reach this minimum by the designated date, we will cancel the getaway and provide a full refund to all who have signed up. We recommend booking early to help ensure the event takes place and to secure your spot!

This getaway is meant for adults. However, we will accept children age 16+ when accompanied by an adult.

Travel and Lodging

No, airport transfer is not included. Participants will need to arrange their own transportation to the Ambassador Hotel Kansas City.

Yes, you are welcome to stay elsewhere. However, please note that if you choose to do so, it will be your responsibility to meet the group at the Ambassador Hotel Kansas City or at our designated destinations on time. All getaway transportation will depart from and return to the Ambassador Hotel Kansas City.

Yes, overnight parking is available at the hotel for $42 per night when using valet or self parking. All overnight parking includes in and out privileges.

Meals and Dietary Needs

The getaway package includes:

  • Friday Welcome Dinner
  • Saturday Lunch and Dinner
  • Sunday Lunch
  • Additionally, breakfast pastries will be available each morning, and we will provide lots of snacks throughout the weekend!
We will do our best to accommodate dietary restrictions. During onboarding, we will send a form to all participants where you can indicate any dietary requirements or allergies. We recommend being as specific as possible to help us cater to your needs.

Yes, alcoholic beverages will be included Friday night and Saturday night. Alcoholic drinks during other activities, however, will need to be purchased separately.

Activities and Itinerary

Yes, there will be parts of the getaway where we split the group into two smaller groups. If you would like to stay with a specific person, we are happy to accommodate this—just let us know during the onboarding process.

There will be very minimal walking during the bakery tour. If you have concerns about mobility, please let us know, and we can provide more details as they become available.

Payments and Cancellation

A $550 deposit is required to secure your spot. The remaining payment is due by March 15th.

The deposit is non-refundable. The final payment is refundable until March 15th. We highly recommend purchasing trip insurance to cover unforeseen changes in your plans.

Yes, participants can transfer or resell their spot if they are unable to attend. Please let us know if this situation arises, and we will help facilitate the transfer.

Packing and Preparation

We will send a detailed packing list closer to the event to help you prepare. Plan to bring comfortable clothing for baking, casual attire for our group activities, and comfortable shoes for the entire weekend. We’ll get more dressed up for the welcome dinner.

Schedule and Free Time

The getaway weekend will be jam-packed with activities, so there won’t be much structured free time. However, if you would like to explore Kansas City on your own, we suggest arriving earlier on Friday or extending your stay into Monday to make the most of your trip.

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