Viennese Whirls are heavenly treats that bring a delightful touch to any dessert platter. These melt-in-your-mouth cookies feature a rich cream filling and a hint of raspberry jam, making them a perfect blend of sweet and tart. The combination of buttery shortbread and luscious buttercream is sure to impress your family and friends, especially during special occasions. In this article, I’ll guide you through the easy Viennese whirl recipe that will elevate your baking skills and leave everyone asking for more.

Why You’ll Love This Viennese Whirls

There are countless reasons to adore these Viennese cookies. First, they boast a melt-in-your-mouth texture that is simply irresistible. Second, the creamy vanilla buttercream and raspberry jam filling creates a perfect flavor balance. Third, they are easy to make, making them ideal for both novice and experienced bakers. Additionally, they can easily be customized with different fillings, such as chocolate or lemon curd, allowing you to create variations like chocolate-dipped whirls. Finally, they are visually stunning, making them perfect for serving at parties or gatherings. These cookies are truly the best Viennese whirl cookies you can make!

Heavenly Viennese Whirls: 24 Melt-in-Your-Mouth Cookies - Viennese Whirls - main visual representation

Ingredients for Viennese Whirls

Gather these items:

225 g Unsalted Butter (very soft)
100 g Caster Sugar
3-5 teaspoons Milk (adjust as needed)
1.5 teaspoons Vanilla Extract
225 g Plain Flour
70 g Cornflour (US cornstarch)
0.25 cup Raspberry Jam
170 g Icing Sugar
1 pinch Salt

How to Make Viennese Whirls Step-by-Step

Step 1: Beat the very soft unsalted butter and caster sugar together in a mixing bowl until pale and creamy, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 2: Gradually add the plain flour and cornflour, mixing just until combined for a smooth consistency.
Step 3: Slowly incorporate the milk, one teaspoon at a time, mixing until the dough is firm enough to pipe.
Step 4: Transfer the dough into a piping bag fitted with a large star nozzle. Pipe small rosettes on a lined baking sheet with a 2-inch gap between each.
Step 5: Chill the tray in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to help the cookies keep their shape while baking.
Step 6: Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F) and bake the cookies for 12-14 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
Step 7: In a clean bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and icing sugar together until light and fluffy; add the vanilla extract.
Step 8: Once cooled, pipe a generous dollop of buttercream onto half of the cookies, then spread raspberry jam on the other half and sandwich them together.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Viennese Whirls

Keep these in mind:

Ensure your butter is very soft for the best mixing results.
Chilling the cookies before baking helps maintain their shape.
Feel free to experiment with different fillings like lemon curd or chocolate ganache.
For a festive touch, consider decorating your Viennese biscuits with colorful sprinkles or edible glitter.

Best Ways to Serve Viennese Whirls

These delightful cookies can be served in various ways. Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. They also shine on dessert platters alongside other cream-filled cookies or pastries. For an elegant presentation, add a dusting of icing sugar on top or decorate with melted chocolate for a touch of luxury.

How to Store and Reheat Viennese Whirls

To ensure your Viennese whirls remain fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week. If you want to make them ahead of time, consider freezing unfilled cookies and filling them with buttercream and jam just before serving. This way, they will taste freshly made!

Frequently Asked Questions About Viennese Whirls

What’s the secret to perfect Viennese Whirls?

The key to perfect Viennese whirls lies in the texture of the dough. It should be soft enough to pipe easily but firm enough to hold its shape while baking. Using very soft butter also contributes to that melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Can I make Viennese Whirls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the cookie dough in advance and refrigerate it for a few days or freeze it for up to a month. Just bake the cookies fresh before you plan to serve them for the best flavor and texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Viennese Whirls?

Common mistakes include overmixing the dough, which can lead to tough cookies. Be sure to mix just until the ingredients are combined. Also, avoid skipping the chilling step, as it helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking.

Variations of Viennese Whirls You Can Try

Get creative with your Viennese whirls! Here are some variations to consider:

Chocolate-Dipped Whirls: Dip the filled cookies in melted chocolate for an indulgent twist.
Nutty Whirls: Add finely chopped nuts to the dough for added flavor and texture.
Fruit-Filled Whirls: Experiment with different jams or curds, like lemon or apricot, for a fresh taste.

For more delicious dessert ideas, check out Irresistible Orange Zest Cranberry or Irresistible Key Lime Pie. You can also explore Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake for a rich treat!

Enjoy your baking adventure with these heavenly Viennese Whirls!