Austria’s sweet delights are as diverse as its breathtaking landscapes. From the towering Alps to the rolling vineyards of the Central Plains, each region boasts its own unique dessert specialties. While chocolate and coffee-flavored treats are beloved throughout the country, there’s a rich tapestry of flavors waiting to be discovered. This list of 27 recipes is a veritable treasure trove of Austrian desserts, with something for everyone to savor.
From classic Cremeschnitte to lesser-known gems like Krapfen, every bite is an ambrosial experience. And if you’re lucky, you might just stumble upon #25, a sweet surprise that will leave you wanting more.
Austrian Apple Strudel
Indulge in the quintessential Austrian Apple Strudel, a harmonious blend of sweet and tart flavors. The dessert’s crowning glory lies in its unique combination of tender apples, subtle sugar, and aromatic spices, all encased within a crispy, flaky pastry crust that will leave you craving more.
Gugelhupf Cake
A traditional Austrian delight, Gugelhupf Cake originates from a yeast-based batter that gives it its characteristic texture. The cake’s signature swirl pattern is achieved by baking it in a specialized mold, often accompanied by the sweetness of raisins or other dried fruits. While Gugelhupf Cakes are typically rich and indulgent, they’re usually served in moderate portions to balance out their decadent nature.
Kaiserschmarrn (Austrian Torn-Up Pancakes)
I’ve come across many dishes that are surprisingly easy to prepare yet utterly delightful to consume – so much so that I feel a tad embarrassed serving them. One such culinary gem is Kaiserschmarrn, a traditional Austrian dessert that has stood the test of time. The simplicity of its preparation is almost laughable, requiring only a few basic ingredients: eggs, flour, sugar, and milk mixed together to form a batter.
Then, it’s simply a matter of frying the batter in butter until it forms a pancake-like consistency. Once golden brown, the pancake is cut into bite-sized pieces and served with a sweet fruit compote or jam. That’s all there is to it – no fuss, no muss, just pure delight.
Austrian Plum Dumplings
A sweet Austrian tradition, Zwetschkenknödel, or plum dumpling, is a decadent dessert that’s as delicious as it is unique. Made with the star of the show – plums – these dumplings are typically served with a creamy vanilla sauce or whipped cream, and can be elevated even further with a sprinkle of almonds or cinnamon. Whether you’re looking for a special treat or just want to try something new, Zwetschkenknödel is an excellent choice that’s sure to impress. And the best part?
It’s a great way to enjoy fresh plums in a whole new way.
Cremeschnitte (Austrian Cream Slices)
Austrian culinary delights have a way of tantalizing the taste buds, and Cremeschnitten (also known as Cremeschnitte) is no exception. This heavenly treat consists of flaky puff pastry and velvety vanilla custard. The key to its success lies in the harmonious balance between these two components. Puff pastry, typically made from scratch but also available in high-quality frozen forms, provides a satisfying crunch that gives way to the smooth, creamy custard.
This indulgent filling is crafted with milk, eggs, sugar, and vanilla, resulting in a rich and decadent flavor profile. While traditionally dusted with confectioners’ sugar, Cremeschnitten can also be enjoyed with fresh fruit or drizzled with chocolate sauce for added texture and sweetness.
Austrian Chocolate Cream Cheese Bars
Planning a dessert that will leave your guests in awe? Look no further than Austrian Chocolate Cream Cheese Bars! This indulgent treat combines two of the most beloved flavors – chocolate and cream cheese. With an effortless-to-make chocolate crust and a rich, velvety filling, these bars are sure to be the star of your next gathering or potluck.
Austrian Apricot Cake
Apricots hold a special place in my heart, boasting a sweet flavor profile and an alluring floral aroma that elevates any dish. Whether used in sweet or savory recipes, apricots have a way of making even the most mundane meals feel like a celebration.
Their versatility is one of their greatest strengths, making them an ideal addition to a wide range of baked goods.
In particular, Austrian Apricot Cake – also known as Marillenkuchen – remains a personal favorite, with its ease of preparation and impressive presentation. For those new to cooking with apricots, I highly recommend giving it a try; the results are often nothing short of spectacular.
Punschtorte
Immerse yourself in the rich flavors of Austria with the iconic Punschtorte. This decadent cake boasts an impressive level of boozy indulgence! The thin layers are cleverly sandwiched between a potent rum punch filling, then smothered in a luscious thick pink fondant icing. The result is nothing short of extraordinary – perfect for any special celebration. What’s more, the Punschtorte excels at versatility, effortlessly transitioning from an after-dinner treat to a dessert wine experience.
Whether you’re planning a grand night out or enjoying a cozy evening in, this indulgent delight is sure to elevate your evening with its infectious fun and charm.
Sacher Torte
For over 150 years, the Sacher Torte has been a beloved Austrian dessert, captivating the hearts of chocolate enthusiasts globally. Its timeless charm lies in its simple yet elegant composition: two layers of moist chocolate sponge cake sandwiched with sweet apricot jam and smothered in a rich, velvety chocolate glaze.
Despite the debate surrounding its origins, one thing is certain – this classic treat has become an integral part of international cuisine, gracing the menus of cafes and bakeries worldwide.
Linzer Torte
A traditional Austrian dessert, the Linzer Torte boasts a rich history and a distinctive composition. At its core lies two layers of buttery pastry infused with the nutty flavor of almonds, carefully sandwiched together by a layer of sweet preserves.
Palatschinken (Austrian Crêpes)
Crêpes have a rich history that dates back to France, where they originated as thin, delicate pancakes. The recipe is surprisingly simple, involving eggs, flour, milk, and melted butter mixed together to create a smooth batter. While the French version of crêpes has gained worldwide recognition, Austria also boasts its own variation of this beloved dish. Interestingly, Austrian crêpes are slightly thicker than their French counterparts but still thinner than American pancakes.
When served, they’re typically accompanied by sweet fillings or sauces featuring fresh fruit.
Marillenknödel (Austrian Apricot Dumplings)
In Austria, Marillenknödel holds a special place in the country’s culinary heritage. This delectable treat consists of apricots smothered in a tender cheese dough, then crowned with a sweet and crunchy mixture of breadcrumbs, cinnamon, and sugar. The dish is steeped in tradition, hailing from the vibrant city of Vienna, where it has earned a reputation as one of Austria’s most beloved and iconic dishes.
Austrian Linzer Cookies
Perched among my favorite indulgences is the Linzer Cookie. What sets these treats apart is their delightful combination of nutty and rich flavors, courtesy of ground almonds that can be readily substituted with hazelnuts or walnuts for added variety. A hint of cinnamon adds depth to the dough, which comes together seamlessly without requiring any chilling time. The baked cookies yield a tender crumb and an appealing balance of sweetness.
While I personally prefer filling mine with raspberry jam, the versatility of these cookies allows you to choose from a wide range of preserves that suit your taste.
Buchteln (Austrian Pull-Apart Rolls)
In Austria, Buchteln sweet rolls have been a beloved tradition for years. These delectable treats typically get their sweetness from apricot jam, but that’s not all they’re known for. The dough, which is yeast-based like brioche, often includes additional ingredients to give it extra flavor and texture. Raisins, currants, or lemon zest are common additions that elevate the rolls’ taste profile. When served warm, Buchteln make a fantastic choice for brunch or dessert.
While they’re delicious on their own, they’re often taken to the next level with a dusting of confectioners’ sugar or a dollop of whipped cream.
Vanilla Crescent Cookies
Indulge in the delightful taste of Vanillekipferl, a scrumptious cookie that’s perfect for any occasion. These buttery almond treats are shaped like crescents and coated with a sweet vanilla-flavored sugar. Whether you’re looking to impress your party guests or want to gift something special to fellow food enthusiasts, Vanillekipferl is an excellent choice. Its unique combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout among other cookies.
Krapfen
Indulge in the irresistible charm of Krapfen, a sweet sensation for anyone with a passion for sugary delights. These luscious doughnuts, crafted from sweet yeast dough and often infused with fruity jam, rich chocolate, or creamy vanilla custard, take on a delightful spherical shape. After being deep-fried to perfection, they’re delicately dusted with confectioners’ sugar, giving them an irresistible allure.
Savor the warm, just-out-of-the-fryer goodness of Krapfen, as their simplicity belies the depth of flavor and satisfaction they bring to your taste buds.
Topfenstrudel
In Austria, Topfenstrudel is a beloved traditional dessert that combines the richness of quark cheese with sweetness from sugar, eggs, and cinnamon. This delectable treat typically comes accompanied by warm vanilla custard or a dollop of whipped cream. The preparation begins with rolling out the dough to an incredibly thin layer, before being spread with a generous helping of filling. Once assembled, the strudel is carefully placed in the oven where it’s transformed into a golden-brown delight.
As a popular dessert, Topfenstrudel often takes center stage on special occasion spreads, where its sweet and indulgent nature is sure to impress.
Salzburger Nockerl
Austria’s culinary heritage is deeply rooted in tradition, and one dish that stands out as a beloved national treasure is Salzburger Nockerln. This impressive dessert bears a striking resemblance to its French counterpart, the soufflé. However, what sets it apart is the unique baking process, which involves placing the soufflé over a thin layer of vanilla-infused milk.
This ingenious technique yields a light and airy custard that beautifully complements the fluffy soufflé, resulting in a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Mozartkugeln
Originating from Salzburg, Austria, Mozartkugeln have been delighting chocolate lovers since 1890, when they were created in tribute to the legendary composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. These delectable treats are filled with a harmonious blend of marzipan, pistachio, and nougat, combining to create an irresistible indulgence for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Kletzenbrot
In the heart of Tyrol, Kletzenbrot is a beloved fruit bread that’s deeply rooted in tradition. This delectable treat is crafted with a medley of dried fruits, including pears, apples, plums, and raisins, which are carefully rehydrated overnight before being combined with crunchy nuts and aromatic spices. The resulting loaf boasts a satisfyingly dense and moist texture, punctuated by a rich flavor profile that’s sure to delight even the most discerning palates.
Austrian Raspberry Shortbread Bars
Indulge in the sublime taste of Austrian Raspberry Shortbread Bars, packed with a rich raspberry flavor that’s sure to impress even the most discerning palates. As you savor each bite, the buttery shortbread and tart raspberries meld together in perfect harmony, creating a sweet yet restrained treat that’s ideally suited for your holiday gatherings.
Mohnnudeln
In Austria, there’s an unconventional dessert waiting to be discovered. Say hello to Mohnnudeln, or poppy seed potato noodles. At first glance, this unusual treat might raise some eyebrows, but trust us, it’s a game-changer. The sweet potato noodles are infused with the subtle flavors of poppy seeds and sugar, creating a delightful combination that will leave you wanting more.
The harmonious blend of sweet and savory notes is nothing short of remarkable, while the crunchy texture from the poppy seeds adds an extra layer of depth to each bite. Give Mohnnudeln a try and uncover the secret to its enduring popularity in the region.
Austrian Chocolate Balls
Austria’s reputation for producing rich, velvety chocolate is well-deserved, as evidenced by these decadent chocolate truffles. At the heart of their appeal lies the perfect blend of unsweetened chocolate and almonds, yielding a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth experience. The finishing touch comes in the form of a luxurious dark chocolate glaze, imparting a luscious sheen to each piece.
Austrian Nut Cookies
The allure of cookies is undeniable. Their harmonious balance of sweetness and flavor is a winning combination that never fails to satisfy. Among the many types of cookies out there, the Austrian nut cookie stands out as a particular favorite. Its unique character stems from the combination of chopped almonds and raspberry jam, which imbue it with a rich, distinctive taste profile.
Whether enjoyed with a warm cup of coffee or cold glass of milk, these delightful treats are sure to bring joy to those who indulge.
Austrian Sweet Semolina Dumplings
Indulge in the delightful combination of Austrian Semolina Dumplings, bursting with Nutella goodness and topped with crunchy pistachio crunch. The secret to these heavenly treats lies in their light-as-air texture, courtesy of semolina flour. After a gentle boil that leaves them floating on the surface, each dumpling is carefully coated with a mixture of chopped pistachios, creating a sweet and satisfying bite-sized delight perfect for any time or occasion.
Austrian Peach Cookie
There’s something truly special about biting into a homemade Austrian Peach Cookie. The experience begins with the anticipation of unwrapping one of these delightful treats, only to be surprised by the sweet and tangy filling at its core. The cookies themselves are crafted by hollowing out rounds of dough and carefully shaping them to resemble miniature peaches. Once baked to perfection, they yield a light and airy texture that’s simply bursting with flavor.
Mozarttorte (Mozart Cake)
Mozart Cake is a legendary treat that embodies the richness and sophistication often associated with the famous composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. The origins of this decadent delight are shrouded in mystery, but it’s believed to hail from Austria, where Mozart’s musical talents first flourished. Today, its allure has spread globally, captivating palates worldwide.
This indulgent cake is crafted by layering moist chocolate sponge with a velvety filling, typically composed of chocolate buttercream or ganache. The crowning glory is a sumptuous layer of rich chocolate frosting, carefully applied to create an irresistible treat for any self-respecting chocolate aficionado.
The bottom line
With that, we’ve reached the end of our extensive journey through Austria’s sweet treats. We’ve covered a whopping 27 must-try Austrian desserts, each one offering a unique taste experience. Whether you’re planning a trip to Austria or simply looking to bring a touch of Austrian charm into your own kitchen, this list has something for everyone. From the iconic Cremeschnitte to the indulgent Krapfen, our selection is guaranteed to satisfy any sweet tooth and leave you eager to try more.
