Viennese coffee is a mixture of strong black coffee and chocolate, topped with fresh whipped cream. It’s a perfect pick if you enjoy a smooth and rich coffee experience with a bit of flair. This classic drink comes from the old coffeehouses in Vienna.
It’s easy to make at home and perfect for brunch, dessert, or a relaxing evening. More than just a drink, it brings a little piece of Austria’s coffee culture to your home.
In this article, you’ll learn how to make Viennese coffee, what you need, and how to serve it the traditional way.
What is Viennese Coffee?
Viennese coffee is a rich and creamy drink that combines strong coffee with chocolate and whipped cream, also known as “Schlagobers” in Vienna. You’ll find classic types like the Einspänner, which is a double espresso with whipped cream, and the Franziskaner, a large black coffee with milk and whipped cream. They often add a sprinkle of dark cocoa, cinnamon, or chocolate curls on top for a nice finishing touch.
Unlike a latte or cappuccino, it doesn’t have a lot of steamed milk or foam. The cream stays on top and gives the coffee a smooth and rich taste.
This coffee is usually served in a clear glass cup, so you can see the dark coffee and light cream layers. It’s simple, elegant, and perfect for anyone who enjoys creamy coffee without milk.
How to make Viennese Coffee?
Here’s a simple recipe to make Viennese coffee at home with just a few simple ingredients:
What do you need to make Viennese Coffee?
- 1 cup freshly brewed strong black coffee or a Double Espresso shot
- 2–3 tablespoons of whipped cream (unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
- 1 to 2 teaspoons of dark chocolate syrup or melted chocolate (optional)
- A pinch of cocoa powder, cinnamon, or chocolate shavings for topping
- A hand whisk or an electric mixer for whipping cream
- Tall Glass cup
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps to prepare a classic Viennese coffee:
1. Brew the Coffee: Start by brewing one cup (about 240 ml) of strong black coffee with medium-dark roast beans. You can prepare a double shot of espresso if you prefer a richer flavor.
2. Whip the Cream: While the coffee is brewing, prepare the whipped cream. Use cold heavy cream straight from the fridge. Pour about 3–4 tablespoons into a mixing bowl and whisk it until it forms a soft peak. This takes about 2-3 minutes by hand. You can use a hand whisk or an electric mixer. For sweetness, you can mix a teaspoon of sugar or a drop of vanilla extract.
3. Add Chocolate: Once your coffee is ready, pour it into a tall glass and stir in 1 to 2 teaspoons of dark chocolate syrup into the hot coffee. Mix well to combine.
4. Pour and Top: Gently spoon the whipped cream on top of your coffee, creating a generous dollop that covers the surface. The cream should float beautifully on top.
5. Optional Garnish: To finish, add a touch of flavor and decoration. Sprinkle a little cocoa powder, cinnamon, or chocolate shavings over the whipped cream. It increases the appeal and taste of your Viennese coffee.
What does Viennese Coffee taste like?
Viennese coffee has a unique taste that brings together the boldness of strong black coffee with the soft sweetness of fresh whipped cream. When you take a sip, you experience a warm, full-bodied coffee topped with a cool, creamy layer. This contrast makes every sip rich, smooth, and satisfying.
The type of coffee used also plays a key role in the taste. Many traditional Viennese cafés use Vienna roast coffee, which is roasted just beyond the medium roast level. This roast level brings out a smooth, well-rounded flavor with notes of roasted nuts and dark chocolate.
How to serve Viennese Coffee?
Traditionally, Viennese coffee is served in a clear glass cup placed on a small saucer with a silver spoon and a glass of cold water to cleanse the palate. This presentation highlights the beautiful contrast between the dark coffee and the light, fluffy whipped cream on top.
People usually enjoy it with a small piece of dark chocolate, a sugar cube, or a buttery biscuit on the side for a touch of indulgence.
When making it at home, you can keep it simple but elegant. Use a transparent glass mug or heatproof cup to showcase the layered look. Add a spoon and a cookie or a piece of chocolate to complete the experience.
Coffee Culture in Vienna
Coffee culture in Vienna is more than just drinking coffee in the morning. It’s a big part of everyday life and a special tradition in the city. Viennese cafés are known around the world for their calm, elegant atmosphere. Coffeehouses have been around since the 17th century, becoming places to read, chat, or just think. Both locals and tourists often spend hours sitting in these cozy cafés, enjoying the peaceful time with a newspaper or chatting with friends.
The menu offers distinctive Austrian coffee drinks like the Melange (their version of cappuccino), Einspänner (double espresso topped with whipped cream), and Verlängerter (extended espresso), often served with sweet treats like pastries or buttery biscuits.
Vienna’s deep respect for its coffeehouse tradition earned it international recognition. In 2011, UNESCO declared the Viennese Coffee House Culture as an “Intangible Cultural Heritage” of humanity [1]. This acknowledgement celebrates the role these cafés play in fostering community and preserving cultural identity.
Popular coffee drinks in Vienna
The coffee menu in Vienna is as rich as its history. Locals enjoy a wide variety of drinks, such as:
- Einspanner/Kapuziner: Single/Double espresso topped with whipped cream in a glass mug
- Wiener Melange: An Espresso shot with steamed milk (similar to a cappuccino)
- Franziskaner: Similar to Wiener Melange, but with a dollop of whipped cream
- Haferlkaffee: A Large mug of coffee with milk, similar to a latte
- Kleiner/Großer Schwarzer: Single/Double espresso shot
- Verlängerter: Espresso with added hot water (like an Americano)
- Fiaker: A single shot of Espresso topped with whipped cream and a splash of rum
Viennese Coffee Recipe
Equipment
- Coffee or Espresso Maker
- A hand whisk or an electric mixer
Ingredients
- A cup of Black Coffee or shots of Espresso
- 1-2 tsp Dark Chocolate Syrup
- 2-3 tbsp Whipped Cream
- A pinch of cocoa powder, cinnamon, or chocolate shavings
Instructions
- Brew Coffee: Make one cup of strong black coffee using medium-dark roast beans, or prepare a double espresso shot.
- Whip Cream: Whisk cold heavy cream in a bowl for 2-3 minutes until soft peaks form. Add sugar or vanilla if desired.
- Add Chocolate: Pour hot coffee into a tall glass and stir in chocolate syrup until well combined.
- Top with Cream: Gently spoon whipped cream on top, creating a generous layer that covers the surface.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with cocoa powder, cinnamon, or chocolate shavings for extra flavor and visual appeal.
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FAQs
How Many Calories in Viennese Coffee?
A medium cup of Viennese coffee with whipped cream has around 50-60 kcal. If you go for a flavored cream or add some sweeteners, the calorie count can go up.
Does Viennese coffee have alcohol?
No, traditional Viennese coffee does not contain alcohol. However, some versions may include a splash of liqueur, like rum or chocolate liqueur.
What is Vienna Roast Coffee?
Vienna roast is a specific roast level of coffee beans, which is darker than medium roast but lighter than French or Italian roasts. It has a balanced flavor with a hint of chocolate notes and light oiliness on the bean surface.
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