Viennese Einspanner Coffee Recipe

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Ah, Vienna—home to some of the most iconic coffee creations in the world. If you’ve strolled through its charming streets, you’ve likely come across a variety of tempting coffee options. One name that might have caught your eye (or ear) is the “Einspanner Coffee {Einspänner}.” But what exactly is it?

Beautiful tall glass filled with strong coffee and topped with whipped cream. Placed on brown coasters and pretty horse in the background. The Einspänner, a Viennese classic!

Allow me, a true Viennese, to fill you in. Whether you’re planning your first visit or you’re a seasoned traveler looking to deepen your coffee knowledge, you’ll soon be ready to order an Einspanner with confidence. So grab a cozy seat, and let’s dive into this Viennese classic!

What is an Einspanner Coffee?

The story of the Einspanner takes us back to post-World War I Vienna, when horse-drawn carriage drivers—limited to just one horse due to food shortages—would park outside the city’s iconic coffeehouses, waiting for passengers.

To stay warm during those chilly days, they’d sip on a strong black coffee topped with a generous dollop of whipped cream. But here’s the twist—they didn’t stir it. Instead, they’d drink the coffee through the rich, velvety cream, keeping their drink warm longer while enjoying a cozy moment amidst the cold.

History never tasted so good, right?

Ingredients you need

  • One strong coffee shot – We recommend making an espresso, but feel free to use your preferred coffee brewing method!
  • Whipped cream – to top the coffee.

How To Make Einspanner Coffee From Scratch

Step 1: Brew a shot of strong coffee and pour it into your serving glass.
Step 2: Fill the rest of the glass with whipped cream—don’t be shy!
Step 3: If you like it sweet, sprinkle some powdered or fine granulated sugar on top.
Step 4: Important! Do not stir. Sip your coffee through the whipped cream cap and enjoy the true Viennese style.

Beautiful tall glass filled with strong coffee and topped with whipped cream. Placed on brown coasters and pretty horse in the background. The Einspänner, a Viennese classic!

Barista Tips

Filtered water does not calcify the coffee equipment, giving the coffee a much better taste. Your taste buds and your espresso machine will thank you!

Products

  • Espresso machine (preferred)
  • Tall serving glass

More Recipes and Tips You Might Enjoy:

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My new workbook is here!

Brewing Coffee for Milk Drinks
How to adapt your favorite brews for milk & creamers — without an espresso machine!

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Einspanner Coffee Recipe

The Einspanner is a classic Viennese coffee made with a strong shot of espresso topped with a generous layer of whipped cream. Sip it slowly through the cream for an authentic experience that’s been warming hearts in Vienna for decades.
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Prep Time:5 minutes
Total Time:5 minutes

Equipment

  • Coffee maker
  • Serving Glass

Ingredients

  • 1 Espresso shot
  • Whipped cream
  • ½ tsp Sugar for sprinkling – optional

Instructions

  • Brew 1 Espresso shot and pour it into your serving glass.
    1 Espresso shot
  • Fill the rest of the glass with a generous amount of Whipped cream.
    Whipped cream
  • For a touch of sweetness, sprinkle some powdered or fine granulated sugar on top (½ tsp Sugar).
    ½ tsp Sugar
  • Now, here’s the key: do not stir! Enjoy the coffee by sipping it through the whipped cream cap for the authentic Viennese experience.

Nutrition

Serving: 1Serving | Calories: 28kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 0.3g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 8mg | Sodium: 5mg | Potassium: 46mg | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 69IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 11mg | Iron: 0.1mg
Servings: 1 Serving
Calories: 28kcal
Author: Nora

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10 Comments

  1. 5 stars
    I love the simplicity of the Einspanner—just two elements, but they work together perfectly. If you’re a fan of coffee with a twist, this is one you have to try!

  2. 5 stars
    I’d had this coffee on a recent trip to Europe and wanted to make it for myself at home. It was so delicious! Thanks for sharing!

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