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The moment I took my first bite of a Viennese Whirl, I was transported to a quaint café in the heart of Vienna, where delicate treats and rich coffee blend seamlessly. There’s something truly enchanting about the combination of buttery, melt-in-your-mouth biscuits layered with velvety buttercream and a tangy raspberry jam. It brings me back to cozy afternoons spent with friends, sharing laughter over tea and sweet delights.

What I love most about these charming biscuits is how simple they are to make—perfect for both seasoned bakers and those just starting their culinary adventures. With just a handful of ingredients and a bit of piping finesse, you can create an elegant dessert that looks and tastes like it came straight from a pastry chef’s kitchen.

Join me in whipping up these delightful Viennese Whirls that are sure to impress at any gathering, whether you’re planning a tea party or just want to savor a piece of heaven at home. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe together!

Why love these Viennese Whirls?

Simplicity meets elegance: With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can create a stunning treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Melt-in-your-mouth texture: The buttery biscuits paired with smooth buttercream deliver a delightful experience with each bite. Versatile flavors: Feel free to swap raspberry jam for your favorite fruit spread to customize these whirls! Perfect for sharing: These biscuits are crowd-pleasers, making them ideal for gatherings or a sweet treat at home. Need more ideas? Check out my mix-and-match teas for pairing suggestions!

Viennese Whirls Ingredients

For the Biscuit Dough
• 225 g unsalted butter – Make sure it’s very soft for easy blending.
• 100 g caster sugar – This fine sugar helps achieve that light, fluffy texture.
• 3-5 teaspoons milk – Use more for a softer dough, less for more structure.
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract – Adds a rich depth of flavor to your whirls.
• 225 g plain flour – Essential for creating the base of your biscuits.
• 70 g cornflour – Lightens the texture, making the biscuits melt in your mouth.

For the Buttercream Filling
• 100 g unsalted butter – Ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
• 170 g icing sugar – Contributes to the sweet, creamy consistency.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor of the filling.
• pinch of salt – Balances the sweetness for a well-rounded taste.

For the Jam Layer
• ¼ cup raspberry jam – Feel free to use your favorite berry jam to personalize your treats!

Each of these ingredients plays a crucial role in perfecting your Viennese Whirls, merging flavors and textures that are simply irresistible!

How to Make Viennese Whirls

Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan forced) / 350°F. Line two large baking sheets with baking paper to ensure your biscuits don’t stick.
Whisk together the flour and cornflour in a medium bowl, then set aside. This mixture will create that light, melt-in-your-mouth texture in your biscuits.
Cream the butter, sugar, and milk using a stand mixer or handheld electric beater until it becomes very pale and creamy. This process usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
Mix in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated, enhancing the flavors of your biscuit dough. The aroma will be irresistible!
Incorporate the flour mixture by beating on low speed until just combined, pulsing a few times to avoid a flour explosion. You want a soft but not sticky dough.
Transfer the biscuit dough to a large piping bag fitted with a large open star tip. This will help you create beautiful, decorative shapes.
Pipe the dough into rosettes about 4 cm (1 ½ inches) wide, spacing them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. A little practice makes perfect!
Chill the piped dough in the fridge for 30 minutes. This helps the biscuits maintain their shape while baking.
Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges just start to brown. Let them cool on the tray for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the buttercream filling by combining the butter and icing sugar in a large mixing bowl. Beat until lightened and fluffy, then add the vanilla and salt, beating again until smooth.
Pipe swirls of buttercream onto the flat side of half of the cooled biscuits. These creamy swirls will be the delightful filling of your Viennese Whirls.
Spread a little raspberry jam on the flat side of the remaining biscuits, then sandwich them together. The tangy jam adds a perfect contrast to the sweetness!

Optional: Dust with icing sugar for an extra touch of elegance.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Viennese Whirls

Butter Quality: Use high-quality unsalted butter for the best flavor and texture. It makes a noticeable difference in your Viennese Whirls.
Chill the Dough: Chilling helps maintain the biscuit shape during baking. Don’t skip this step; your whirls will keep their lovely rosette form!
Piping Technique: Practice piping on a piece of parchment before starting, if you’re new to it. This gives you confidence when shaping those beautiful biscuits.
Oven Thermometer: Ovens can be tricky! Use an oven thermometer to ensure the right baking temperature for your Viennese Whirls to avoid uneven baking.
Jam Alternatives: Feel free to experiment with different jams or even curds for a variety of flavors. Just make sure they’re not too runny, so they don’t ooze out!
Storage Tips: Store your Viennese Whirls in an airtight container, layered with parchment paper, to keep them fresh and prevent sticking.

These tips will help you create perfect, delightful Viennese Whirls that your friends and family will adore!

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Viennese Whirls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the biscuit dough up to 24 hours in advance by following steps 1-8, then cover it tightly and refrigerate to maintain its freshness. The baked biscuits can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring they retain their melt-in-your-mouth texture. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply whip up the buttercream filling (steps 10-12) and assemble your whirls right before serving for a burst of freshness. This way, you can savor elegant treats without the last-minute rush, making your busy weeknights a little sweeter!

Viennese Whirls Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize these delightful biscuits to suit your taste!

Nutty Twist: Add 50 g of finely ground almonds to the flour mixture for a subtle almond flavor and texture.
Chocolate Delight: Replace 70 g of plain flour with cocoa powder for a rich chocolate version. Pair it with chocolate buttercream for heavenly indulgence.
Citrus Burst: Incorporate the zest of one lemon or orange into the biscuit dough for a refreshing citrus note. It brightens up the classic recipe, making each bite feel like a sunny day.
Vegan Option: Substitute the butter with vegan butter and the custard with almond or soy milk for a delicious dairy-free treat. Toss in a bit of flaxseed meal to help bind the ingredients.
Spicy Version: Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to the flour mixture for a warm, aromatic spice. It’s the perfect seasonal twist that enhances the overall flavor.
Berry Medley: Swap raspberry jam for a mixture of strawberry and blueberry preserves to create a colorful, mixed-berry whirl. Each bite will be a fruity explosion of flavors!
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of plain flour and cornflour to make these biscuits gluten-free without losing that melt-in-your-mouth magic.
Savory Spin: Experiment with a pinch of herbs like rosemary or thyme in your biscuit dough for an unexpected savory treat. Pair with a tangy cheese spread for an afternoon delight.

These variations will not only enhance your Viennese Whirls experience but will also turn them into a delightful adventure in your kitchen!

What to Serve with Viennese Whirls?

Indulge in a delightful experience by pairing these elegant biscuits with complementary flavors and textures, perfect for any gathering.

Creamy Earl Grey Tea: The floral notes of Earl Grey contrast beautifully with the sweetness of the Viennese Whirls, making for an aromatic combination.
Fresh Berries: A medley of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a refreshing burst of flavor that enhances the rich buttery taste of the biscuits.
Decadent Hot Chocolate: This rich, creamy drink provides a cozy warmth that perfectly pairs with the melt-in-your-mouth texture of your freshly made treats.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a scoop alongside your Viennese Whirls for a delightful contrast of temperatures. The creaminess also balances the biscuit’s sweetness beautifully.
Lemon Curd: The tangy zest of lemon curd cuts through the sweetness, providing a refreshing and vibrant taste that will elevate your dessert experience.
Almond Biscotti: For a delightful textural contrast, serve these crunchy, nutty cookies alongside your Viennese Whirls. They offer a satisfying crunch with every bite.
Sparkling Water with Lime: Refreshing sparkling water helps cleanse the palate between bites, allowing you to fully enjoy the flavors of each biscuit.
Chocolate Fondue: Dipping pieces of your Viennese Whirls in warm chocolate fondue creates a decadent combination that chocolate lovers will adore!

With these delightful pairings, your tea time will turn into a lavish affair that everyone will remember.

Storage Tips for Viennese Whirls

Room Temperature: Store your Viennese Whirls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and delicious!

Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate them for a firmer texture, but remember to consume within a week to enjoy their best flavor and consistency.

Freezer: To freeze your Viennese Whirls, place them in an airtight container with layers of parchment paper between them. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature for about 1 hour. If desired, you can warm them slightly in the oven for a few minutes to regain that fresh-baked feel!

Viennese Whirls Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my butter is soft enough?
You’ll want your butter to be very soft, almost to the point of being spreadable, but not melted. The ideal texture is achieved when you can easily press your finger into it without resistance, similar to the consistency of cream cheese left out at room temperature.

How should I store my Viennese Whirls?
Keep your Viennese Whirls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their delightful softness. If you prefer them chilled, pop them in the fridge but try to consume them within a week for the best flavor and texture.

Can I freeze Viennese Whirls?
Absolutely! To freeze your Viennese Whirls, place them in an airtight container, layering parchment paper between biscuits to prevent sticking. They’ll stay delicious for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature for about an hour.

What if my biscuit dough is too sticky?
If your dough feels too sticky to pipe, you can chill it for an additional 10-15 minutes to help firm it up. Alternatively, you can add a tiny bit of extra flour, but be careful not to overdo it, as that can change the lovely texture of your Viennese Whirls.

Are there any dietary considerations for making these?
For those with allergies, be sure to check that your butter and icing sugar do not contain any additives. Additionally, dairy-free or plant-based substitutes can work! Coconut oil can replace butter, and you could use dairy-free margarine for the buttercream filling. Just remember the texture may slightly differ, but the flavors will still shine!

Is there a best type of jam to use for these treats?
While raspberry jam is traditional, feel free to swap it out for your favorite berry jam or even lemon curd for a tangy twist! Just ensure any filling you choose isn’t too runny; otherwise, it might ooze out when you sandwich your Viennese Whirls together.