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?

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.

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
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- A Taste of Elegance: Baileys and Coffee Symphony
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Brewing Coffee for Milk Drinks
How to adapt your favorite brews for milk & creamers - without an espresso machine!
If you make this recipe, let me know how you liked it by ★★★★★ star rating it and leaving a comment below. This would be awesome! You can also sign up for our Newsletter or follow me on Pinterest or Instagram and share your creation with me. Just tag me @combinegoodflavors and hashtag #combinegoodflavors, so I don't miss it.
📖 Recipe

Einspanner Coffee Recipe
Equipment
- Coffee maker
- Serving Glass
Ingredients
- 1 Espresso shot
- Whipped cream
- ½ teaspoon 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 teaspoon Sugar).½ teaspoon 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 values are estimates only, using online calculators. Please verify using your own data.











Nicole Kendrick says
This is absolutely delicious. I love the deep, strong coffee flavor with the whipped cream. Heavenly.
Nora says
Thank you so much, Nicole! I am so happy you liked it!
Oscar says
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!
Nora says
Thank you so much, Oscar! Happy you enjoyed it!
Swathi says
Coffee looks delicious I have enjoyed it, perfect treat.
Nora says
Thank you, Swathi! Glad you liked it!
Elizabeth says
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!
Nora says
That is wonderful! Thank you, Elizabeth!
Criss says
OMG ~ First sip, it was absolutely awesome!!!
Nora says
Thank you, Criss!