Star of coffee shops in Seoul and new darling of social networks, Viennese coffee, also called einspanneris gradually arriving in French cafes. With its strong espresso topped with a thick layer of whipped cream, this gourmet drink intrigues as much as it seduces. But is it reasonable to consume it regularly?
A trend from Vienna… adopted by Korea
Born in Viennese cafés, theeinspanner is now experiencing a second youth in South Korea. On TikTok and Instagram, videos showing this two-tone glass, an intense black coffee topped with a thick white cloud, have millions of views.
Result: the trend is spreading to Europe, and in particular France, where several Korean coffee shops or those specializing in specialty coffee now include it on their menu.
Between hot drinks, desserts and gourmet coffee, the concept is intriguing. Many are still hesitant: is it a simple revisited espresso or a real sweet treat to be reserved for special occasions?
What does a Viennese coffee really contain?
In its traditional version, Viennese coffee consists of:
- A strong espresso (around 60 to 70 ml);
- Sometimes lightly diluted with hot water;
- Covered with a generous layer of very cold full-fat whipped cream (about 60 ml).
Unlike cappuccino, which contains milk foam, Viennese coffee relies on crème fraîche, for a denser, smoother and more delicious texture.
The height of indulgence, it is sometimes garnished with sugar, chocolate shavings or flavored syrup, which reinforces its “dessert drink” side.
A pleasure drink… but very rich
For Pauline Pied, dietitian nutritionist, the nutritional difference with a cappuccino is important.
“In the Viennese café, we have a good quantity of crème fraîche, around 60 ml. For me, it is really a pleasure drink to consume from time to time, for example on the terrace or in the tea room.”
Underneath the appetizing texture, the specialist emphasizes that this cream provides a lot of lipids and in particular saturated fatty acids. “If you drink it several times a day, you quickly develop excess fat without necessarily realizing it, since it is a drink.”
How often can you drink it?
Should we therefore ban Viennese coffee? Not necessarily.
“The idea is not to deprive yourself. You can consume it when you really want it, but rather occasionally”
According to Pauline Pied, it can be integrated into a balanced diet once in a while, provided you compensate for the rest of the day. “If you choose a Viennese coffee, it may be preferable to adjust the fat intake to other meals. And ideally, make it the only gourmet drink of the day.”
Viennese coffee, for everyone?
The dietitian also urges certain people to exercise caution. “Crème fraîche contains lactose and remains much richer in fat than milk. In sensitive people, it can cause digestive problems such as bloating.
People with fragile digestion, high cholesterol or a diet already rich in fatty products should also limit their consumption.
Others can indulge in this little “craziness” from time to time, or even recreate it at home. But by savoring each sip… without ever making it a reflex.