The Almond and Hazelnut Notes in Viennese Coffee
Viennese coffee is a famous coffee tradition that originated in Vienna, Austria. It is a type of coffee that is made with espresso and topped with whipped cream. The Viennese coffee is known for its rich, smooth and creamy taste that is perfect for those who love to indulge in indulgent and decadent coffee drinks.
One of the most notable characteristics of Viennese coffee is its almond and hazelnut notes. These flavors are subtle, yet they add a layer of complexity to the coffee that is both interesting and satisfying for the palate. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind the presence of these flavors in Viennese coffee, as well as how to make Viennese coffee at home.
The Almond and Hazelnut Notes in Viennese Coffee: Why Are They There?
The almond and hazelnut notes in Viennese coffee are there for a reason. These notes are a result of the coffee beans used in the espresso. Vienna roast coffee beans are used for making Viennese coffee. These beans are roasted slightly longer than the medium roast beans, which results in a darker-colored bean with a smoky flavor and slight bitterness.
The roast of the coffee bean itself contributes to the presence of almond and hazelnut notes. When coffee beans are roasted, the natural oils within the bean are released. These oils contain flavor compounds that are responsible for the characteristic flavors of the coffee. In the case of Viennese coffee, the darker roast of the beans results in more roasted and nutty flavors, which manifest as the almond and hazelnut notes.
In addition to the roast, the type of coffee bean used also contributes to the presence of these flavors. Arabica coffee beans are commonly used in Viennese coffee. These beans are known for their delicate flavor with notes of fruit and nuttiness. The nutty notes of the Arabica coffee bean complement the almond and hazelnut notes in the Vienna roast, resulting in a well-balanced and flavorful drink.
How to Make Viennese Coffee at Home
Viennese coffee is easy to make at home, and you don't need any fancy equipment to do so. Here's how to make Viennese coffee using a stovetop espresso maker:
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons Vienna roast espresso beans
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon sugar
Instructions:
1. Grind the espresso beans using a burr grinder.
2. Fill the water chamber of the stovetop espresso maker with cold water up to the designated line.
3. Add the ground espresso to the filter basket and tamp it down lightly.
4. Screw the filter basket onto the bottom chamber of the espresso maker.
5. Place the espresso maker on the stovetop over medium heat and wait for the coffee to start dripping into the top chamber.
6. In a small bowl, whip the heavy cream with a tablespoon of sugar until it forms stiff peaks.
7. Once the espresso is brewed, pour it into a cup.
8. Top the espresso with the whipped cream.
9. Garnish with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or cinnamon, if desired.
Viennese coffee is a delightful treat that is perfect for special occasions or when you need a little pick-me-up. Its almond and hazelnut notes add a delicious complexity to the coffee that is sure to impress your taste buds. So the next time you're craving a delectable coffee drink, try making Viennese coffee at home and enjoy the rich flavors that this traditional coffee has to offer.