National Dish Austria: Sacher Slices (Recipe)
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Few treats capture Viennese coffee-house culture quite like the Sacher slices, a portion-sized take on the legendary Austrian chocolate cake. Layers of rich, dark sponge are brushed with tangy apricot jam and finished with a mirror-smooth chocolate glaze that gleams on the plate. First created in 1832, this chocolate delicacy remains a symbol of Austrian patisserie and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, whether served at a grand celebration or alongside an afternoon coffee.
About Sacher Slices
The Sacher slices are a true national dish of Austria, celebrated around the world for their irresistible pairing of chocolate and apricot jam. This indulgent treat traces its origins back to 1832, when the young cook Franz Sacher created it for Prince Wenzel von Metternich. With its unmistakable flavour and its glossy chocolate glaze, the Sacher slice is not only a feast for the senses but also a symbol of Austrian culture. From festive occasions to a simple afternoon coffee, it continues to delight lovers of sweet things across the globe.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 100 g dark chocolate
- 80 g butter
- 40 g icing sugar
- 2 eggs
- 50 g plain flour
- 50 g apricot jam
- 100 g chocolate glaze
Shopping for the ingredients
To make the perfect Sacher slices, it is well worth sourcing high-quality ingredients. Make sure the dark chocolate has a high cocoa content of at least 70 per cent to guarantee that deep, intense chocolate flavour. The butter should be fresh and unsalted, too. With the apricot jam in particular, it pays to choose an organic option, as these often contain less sugar and a better proportion of fruit.
Preparing the dish
Good preparation is the key to a successful Sacher slice. Begin by gathering all the ingredients you need close to hand so that everything runs smoothly. Make sure you also have a suitable cake tin ready, allowing the cake to bake evenly. It helps to weigh out the chocolate and butter in small pieces in advance to make the process that much easier.
Step-by-step instructions
- Melt the dark chocolate and the butter together in a bain-marie over medium heat, then leave the mixture to cool slightly.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs with the icing sugar until the mixture is pale and creamy.
- Gently fold the cooled chocolate-and-butter mixture into the egg mixture.
- Sift the flour and fold it carefully into the batter until everything is well combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared tin and bake in a preheated oven at 175°C for around 30 minutes.
- Once cooled, slice the cake horizontally and spread with apricot jam.
- Place the top half back on and pour the chocolate glaze over the whole cake.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
If you would like to make the Sacher slices without gluten, you can simply replace the regular flour with gluten-free flour. Take care that all the other ingredients are gluten-free as well. For a lactose-free version, use lactose-free butter and dark chocolate. These adjustments mean that people with particular dietary needs can also enjoy this delicious cake.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
For anyone following a vegan diet, there are wonderful alternatives to the classic Sacher slices. Instead of eggs, you can use apple purée or a flaxseed egg substitute — simply mix one tablespoon of flaxseed with three tablespoons of water and let it swell. The butter can be swapped for vegan margarine or coconut oil, while the chocolate should be vegan according to the ingredient list. With these simple swaps, the cake keeps all of its delicious flavour.
More tips and tricks
A few simple tricks can make preparing the Sacher slices considerably easier. Bring the ingredients to room temperature before you start, as this helps create an even, smooth batter. It also helps to let the cake cool completely before glazing, so the chocolate glaze spreads neatly and evenly. In addition, you can lightly score the surface of the cake so the glaze adheres better and the finish looks all the more attractive.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
The Sacher slices can be tailored entirely to your own preferences. Add some nuts, for example, for a pleasant crunch, or swap the apricot jam for another fruit preserve of your choice. Aromatic spices such as cinnamon or vanilla can also be worked into the batter to add extra depth of flavour. Variations like these make the cake not only unique but more personal, much in the spirit of the Linzer Torte, where a fruity filling defines the whole bake.
Ingredient substitutions
If you do not have some of the ingredients for the Sacher slices to hand, there are several alternatives to fall back on. Instead of icing sugar, you might use coconut blossom sugar for a different kind of sweetness. In place of butter, apple purée often works well as a substitute, especially in vegan recipes. For the glaze, you could consider a ready-made vegan chocolate glaze, which offers plenty of flavour while keeping preparation time to a minimum — a handy shortcut you might also use for a Chocolate Cake.
Drink pairing ideas
The Sacher slices pair beautifully with a range of drinks. A classic coffee is the perfect match for this chocolate cake, rounding out the flavours nicely. For a special touch, you might serve an espresso or cappuccino alongside. If you are after a non-alcoholic option, a fruity tea or hot chocolate also makes a delicious companion.
Serving and presentation ideas
The presentation of your Sacher slices can lift the whole experience considerably. Serve the cake on an elegant cake plate and decorate it with icing sugar or fresh berries to add a splash of colour. A pretty drizzle of chocolate sauce on the plate can also show the cake off to its best. Whether for a festive occasion or a simple coffee gathering, an attractive presentation enhances the pleasure of every bite.
A bit of history
The Sacher slices have a fascinating history that reaches back to the 19th century. Franz Sacher originally created the cake as a 16-year-old apprentice cook for a high-ranking statesman. Over the years, it grew into a symbol of Austrian confectionery craft and is today a popular souvenir for tourists. The most traditional version is still served at the famous Hotel Sacher in Vienna, where the cake is kept as a closely guarded secret recipe and stands as a proud emblem of Austrian cuisine.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Sacher Slices
The Sacher slices are an unmistakable chocolate cake that wins everyone over with its combination of delicate apricot jam and rich chocolate glaze. Whether in its traditional form or with a few creative tweaks, preparing this classic is both a treat for the palate and a feast for the eyes. Experience the art of Austrian patisserie in your own kitchen and let this delicious slice of history work its magic. This cake is always a joy to make and an excellent choice for any occasion.
