Summering in Maine - Bake from Scratch

      Brooke’s Travel and Baking Blog

      By Brooke Bell

      I've had the good fortune of spending time in Maine with friends over the past two summers, and I'm eagerly counting down to my return at the end of July—this time alongside both new and familiar baking friends for our Maine Baking Retreats. Maine is one of those extraordinary places where life feels a bit slower, the rugged coastline is both understated and breathtaking, and there’s a deep appreciation for the food that is cultivated and prepared with care. I’m looking at you, blueberries.

      When people inquire about what excites me most for our upcoming retreat...

      The wild blueberries are exceedingly sweet—I was amazed by the flavor packed into their small size during my first taste. I've never been berry picking in Maine, so I'm particularly looking forward to visiting a farm near Camden, where we'll fill our baskets (and try our best not to consume them all right there!) before turning them into jam at the stunning Tops’l Farm. I’ll put in every effort to carefully carry some Maine blueberries back to Alabama in my carry-on, and if I manage not to munch on them throughout the flight, I'll bake this Blueberry Pound Cake.

      I'm not shy about admitting that I have a daily lobster roll quota. When in Maine! I like mine with butter, although I’ve never refused one made with mayonnaise. One of my top choices is from McLoons Lobster Shack, where we plan to stop for lunch while traveling from Portland to Camden.

      Speaking of McLoons—I always save space for one of their whoopie pies, Maine’s official state dessert. I’m excited to try the version that our very own Brian Hart Hoffman will be demonstrating in Portland. He has been diligently refining his recipe, and I’m personally hoping for a generous helping of frosting.

      I've long dreamed of visiting Salt Water Farm, and I'm thrilled to spend a whole day at this acclaimed cooking school in Lincolnville with owner Annemarie Ahearn and her team. Together we’ll bake Blueberry Buckle, a Mixed Berry Galette, Raspberry Cobbler, and Hermits, a traditional New England cookie.

      Also, you simply can’t go to Maine without enjoying time on the water. From Portland Harbor, we’ll sail on Casco Bay to watch the sunset and admire the picturesque port town from the sea, along with views of the nearby islands and iconic lighthouses.

      However, the very best aspect of every retreat—and this is a sentiment echoed by every single guest—is the friendships formed. There’s something special about how the right people connect over a shared passion for baking in a beautiful setting. It’s hard to put into words. It simply stays with you.

      If you're interested in learning more about our Maine retreats, please reach out to our event director, Charlotte Atkins, at events@bakefromscratch.com. Charlotte ensures that every detail of our retreats is meticulously arranged so that all you need to do is pack.

      There's a reason Maine shines in July and August: chilly coastal mornings, pleasant afternoons, and warm evenings that are ideal for gathering around the table.