If you’re anything like me, nothing lifts your spirits quite like the rich aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the kitchen. Just the thought of indulging in a delightful Chocolate Viennese Whirl brings back nostalgic memories of cozy afternoons spent at home, with warm treats waiting to be enjoyed. These elegant yet deceptively simple cookies are here to transform your sweet cravings into a celebration of flavors, perfectly balanced with smooth chocolate ganache and the option of a zesty orange or mint infusion that takes taste to another level.
Believe it or not, crafting these delightful treats requires just a short list of vegan ingredients, making them a guilt-free pleasure that everyone can enjoy! Whether you’re impressing guests at a gathering or simply treating yourself to a bit of homemade comfort, these Chocolate Viennese Whirls not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also give you that warm, fuzzy feeling akin to a hug. Let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this charming recipe that’s perfect for both seasoned chefs and kitchen newcomers alike!
Why are Chocolate Viennese Whirls a Must-Try?
Irresistible Taste: The rich combination of cocoa and velvety ganache makes every bite a chocolate lover’s dream.
Easy to Make: With simple vegan ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip these up.
Perfect for Sharing: Their elegant appearance and delightful flavors make them a showstopper for gatherings.
Versatile Flavor Options: Customize with orange or mint for a unique twist.
Time-Friendly: In just 45 minutes, you’ll have a fresh batch, ideal for a sweet craving or last-minute guests.
Indulge in these delightful cookies and savor the moment!
Chocolate Viennese Whirls Ingredients
Ready to whip up some delightful treats? Here’s what you’ll need!
For the Biscuit Dough
- 200 g vegan block butter – Ensure it’s very soft for easy mixing.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – This enhances the rich flavor of the dough.
- 180 g plain (all-purpose) flour – Forms the base of our delicious cookies.
- 40 g cornflour (cornstarch) – Helps create a tender texture for the biscuits.
- 20 g cocoa powder – The star ingredient bringing that chocolatey goodness.
- 75 g icing (powdered) sugar – Adds sweetness and a touch of creaminess.
- 1 Tablespoon plant milk – Just enough to achieve the right dough consistency.
For the Chocolate Ganache
- 100 g dark chocolate – Finely chopped for a smooth melting process.
- 100 g vegan double cream alternative – Provides the perfect creaminess for the ganache.
- 15 g vegan block butter – Helps give the ganache a silky texture.
- 1 teaspoon orange extract or ½ teaspoon peppermint extract (optional) – Choose your favorite for a delightful twist!
Gather these ingredients and get ready to create unforgettable Chocolate Viennese Whirls that will sweep everyone off their feet!
How to Make Chocolate Viennese Whirls
-
Whisk Together: Start by whisking the softened vegan butter and vanilla extract in a bowl using an electric mixer until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
-
Sift and Combine: Sift in the plain flour, cornflour, cocoa powder, and icing sugar, followed by the plant milk. Mix until everything is well combined; the dough should be stiff but malleable enough to pipe. If needed, add more milk to reach the desired consistency.
-
Pipe the Dough: Transfer your dough into a piping bag fitted with a large star nozzle. Pipe swirls about 5.5 cm (or 2 inches) in diameter onto lined baking sheets. Aim for around 22 swirls, making sure to leave some space between them.
-
Chill: Place the trays in the freezer for about 15 minutes while preheating your oven to 190°C (170°C fan) or 375°F. This will help maintain the shape during baking.
-
Bake: Bake the chilled biscuits in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes until they are firm to the touch. Cool on the trays for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
-
Make the Ganache: For the ganache, place the chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Heat the vegan double cream and 15 g of vegan butter until just simmering, then pour it over the chocolate.
-
Stir and Incorporate: Let it sit for 5 minutes, then stir the mixture until melted and smooth. If you’re opting for added flavor, stir in your chosen extract—orange or peppermint—at this stage.
-
Cool the Ganache: Allow the ganache to cool and thicken slightly before transferring it to a piping bag fitted with a medium round nozzle.
-
Assemble the Whirls: Pipe a generous dollop of ganache onto the bottom side of half of the baked biscuits. Gently top each with another biscuit, creating delightful little sandwiches!
Optional: Dust with extra icing sugar for a touch of elegance.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Chocolate Viennese Whirls?
Elevate your dessert experience with complementary flavors and textures that enhance every blissful bite.
-
Fresh Berries: Their juicy sweetness and slight tartness create a beautiful contrast to the rich chocolate. Perfect for balancing flavors on the plate!
-
Coffee or Espresso: The bold bitterness of coffee pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the cookies, making it a classic indulgence for chocolate lovers.
-
Vegan Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vegan ice cream brings a delightful cold contrast to the warm, soft swirls, enhancing the overall dessert experience.
-
Zesty Citrus Salad: A refreshing salad with oranges and mint adds a bright splash of flavor, cleansing the palate with each bite.
-
Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: For true chocolate enthusiasts, a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce can elevate these whirls to a whole new level of decadence.
-
Mint Tea: A calming cup of mint tea complements the rich chocolate without overpowering it, offering a soothing end to your meal.
-
Whipped Coconut Cream: The light and airy texture of whipped coconut cream provides a creamy, dairy-free option that pairs beautifully with the crispy biscuits.
Whether for a gathering or a cozy evening at home, these pairings will ensure your Chocolate Viennese Whirls shine even brighter!
Make Ahead Options
These Chocolate Viennese Whirls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the biscuit dough and pipe the swirls up to 24 hours in advance—simply store them on the baking sheets in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, to maintain moisture. If you want to prep even further ahead, freeze the piped shapes for up to 3 months; just make sure to place them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, pop them directly from the freezer into the preheated oven, adding an extra minute or two to the bake time if needed. For the ganache, you can make it up to 3 days ahead and refrigerate it. Just reheat slightly before piping onto the cookies to keep it smooth. Enjoy the time-saving benefits of making these delightful treats in advance!
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Viennese Whirls
Room Temperature: Keep your Chocolate Viennese Whirls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness and flavor.
Fridge: If you want to extend their life, place them in the fridge in a sealed container; they will stay good for up to 1 week, but the texture might change slightly.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the unfilled biscuits in a single layer for up to 3 months. Once frozen, transfer them into a resealable bag.
Reheating: To enjoy that fresh-baked feel, allow the biscuits to thaw at room temperature, then warm them in a preheated oven for a few minutes before serving.
Expert Tips for Chocolate Viennese Whirls
-
Soft Butter Key: Use very soft vegan butter for an easy mixing process. Cold butter won’t combine well, resulting in a lumpy dough.
-
Perfect Dough Consistency: Ensure your dough is stiff but pliable before piping. Adjust by adding a bit more plant milk if it’s too dry.
-
Chilling Matters: Don’t skip the chilling step; it helps keep the biscuits’ shape during baking. This is crucial for beautiful Chocolate Viennese Whirls.
-
Piping Technique: When using the piping bag, keep consistent pressure for uniform swirls. If you’re hesitant, practice on parchment first!
-
Cooling Time: Allow biscuits to cool adequately before adding ganache. This prevents melting and ensures a lovely texture when you bite in.
Enjoy making your Chocolate Viennese Whirls, and remember that practice makes perfect!
Chocolate Viennese Whirls Variations
Make these delightful cookies your own with a few simple twists!
-
Nutty Delight: Add 50g of finely chopped nuts, such as hazelnuts or almonds, to the dough for a satisfying crunch. This adds texture and an earthy flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully.
-
Zesty Citrus: Replace the vanilla extract with the zest of one orange or lemon for a refreshing burst of citrus in your Whirls. The zesty aroma will brighten up the chocolate, making each bite even more delightful.
-
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper into the ganache for a surprising heat that balances the sweetness. This will awaken your palate and give a bold twist to the classic flavor.
-
Creamy Filling: Swap out the ganache for a rich vegan chocolate mousse for a creamier experience. The mousse will provide a luscious texture that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
-
Fruit Infusion: Fold in 50g of freeze-dried raspberry or strawberry powder into the dough for a fruity flavor explosion. The berry notes pair wonderfully with chocolate for a decadent treat.
-
Salted Caramel: Drizzle some homemade vegan salted caramel onto the ganache before sandwiching the biscuits together. The salty-sweet balance enhances the depth of flavor in each bite.
-
Choco-Mint: For a refreshing twist, add a few drops of peppermint oil to the ganache. This minty freshness combined with chocolate creates a dreamy treat reminiscent of holiday favorites.
-
Cafe Bliss: Mix in 1-2 teaspoons of instant coffee granules into the dough for a mocha-flavored cookie. The coffee will accentuate the chocolate’s richness while adding a sophisticated touch.
Let your creativity shine with these variations—I can’t wait for you to enjoy your customized Chocolate Viennese Whirls!
Chocolate Viennese Whirls Recipe FAQs
What’s the best way to select vegan butter for this recipe?
Absolutely! The best vegan butter for Chocolate Viennese Whirls is one that’s very soft, ideally at room temperature, making it easier to whisk into a smooth consistency. Look for a high-fat content product that mimics traditional butter—it will give you that creamy mouthfeel we’re aiming for.
How should I store leftover Chocolate Viennese Whirls?
You can store your Chocolate Viennese Whirls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like them to last longer, pop them in the fridge where they can stay fresh for up to 1 week. Just keep in mind that refrigeration may slightly change their texture.
Can I freeze Chocolate Viennese Whirls?
Definitely! To freeze, lay the unfilled biscuits flat on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until firm, about 1-2 hours. Once they are solid, transfer them to a resealable bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature or warm them in a preheated oven for a few minutes.
What should I do if my biscuit dough is too soft to pipe?
Very good question! If you find that your dough is too soft to hold its shape for piping, don’t worry. Simply place the dough in the fridge for 15-30 minutes to firm it up before transferring it to the piping bag. This step is crucial for achieving those beautiful swirls!
Are these Chocolate Viennese Whirls suitable for people with nut allergies?
Yes, they are! This recipe is nut-free, as it uses vegan butter and plant milk that typically don’t contain nuts. However, always check your ingredient labels carefully, as some brands might produce in facilities with nut products. Use caution if you’re preparing them for someone with severe allergies.
Can I use different extracts for the ganache?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with various extracts to create your unique flavor profile. Almond extract, hazelnut, or even fresh mint can elevate your ganache beautifully. Just remember to start with a small amount, tasting as you go!
Enjoy your baking journey and the delicious moments that come with it!
Deliciously Dreamy Chocolate Viennese Whirls to Indulge In
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Whisk together the softened vegan butter and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy for about 2-3 minutes.
- Sift in the plain flour, cornflour, cocoa powder, and icing sugar, add the plant milk, and mix until well combined.
- Transfer the dough into a piping bag fitted with a large star nozzle and pipe swirls about 5.5 cm in diameter onto baking sheets.
- Chill the trays in the freezer for about 15 minutes while preheating your oven to 190°C or 375°F.
- Bake the chilled biscuits for 15-18 minutes until firm, then cool on trays for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Place the chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl; heat the vegan double cream and vegan butter until just simmering, then pour over the chocolate.
- Let it sit for 5 minutes, then stir until melted and smooth. Optional: stir in your chosen extract.
- Allow the ganache to cool and thicken slightly before transferring to a piping bag.
- Pipe ganache onto the bottom side of half the baked biscuits, then top with another biscuit to create sandwiches.
- Optional: Dust with extra icing sugar before serving.