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+ servings

California Einspänner Coffee: A Creamy, Cloud-Topped Austrian Classic

Transport yourself to a Viennese café with this easy Einspänner coffee, featuring strong espresso topped with a cloud of lightly sweetened whipped cream.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 1
Course: Coffee, Drinks, Quick Meals
Cuisine: Austrian
Calories: 220

Ingredients
  

Coffee Base
  • 1/4 cup freshly pulled espresso shots or very strong brewed coffee about 2 shots
Sweetener
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons powdered sugar adjust to taste
Whipped Cream Topping
  • 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream cold
  • 1 teaspoon powdered sugar optional, for sweetened cream
Garnish
  • unsweetened cocoa powder or finely grated dark chocolate for dusting

Method
 

Prepare the Coffee
  1. Pour the hot espresso or strong coffee into your serving glass or cup. Stir in the powdered sugar until fully dissolved.
Whip the Cream
  1. In a chilled medium bowl, pour the cold heavy cream. Using an electric hand mixer or a whisk, beat the cream until it forms stiff peaks. If you prefer a sweeter cream, add the extra teaspoon of powdered sugar while whipping.
Assemble the Einspänner
  1. Transfer the whipped cream to a piping bag fitted with a star tip. Pipe generous swirls of cream directly on top of the coffee, aiming for roughly a 1:1 ratio of coffee to cream. Adjust the amount to your liking.
Finish and Serve
  1. Dust the cream lightly with cocoa powder or a sprinkle of shaved chocolate. Serve immediately, stirring the cream into the coffee as you sip.

Nutrition

Calories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 14gProtein: 2gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 11gCholesterol: 68mgSodium: 20mgSugar: 13g

Notes

For the best texture, use cream that is at least 36% milk fat. If you don't have a piping bag, simply spoon the whipped cream on top. To make it dairy-free, substitute with a chilled can of full-fat coconut cream. This drink is meant to be enjoyed right away; the cream will slowly melt into the coffee. For a stronger coffee flavor, use a dark roast espresso blend.

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