Sacher Torte is a world-renowned Austrian dessert that has become a symbol of Viennese culinary excellence. This elegant and decadent chocolate cake is filled with apricot jam and coated in a glossy chocolate glaze. Sacher Torte is a true masterpiece that delights the senses with its rich flavors and velvety texture. It is a must-try dessert for chocolate lovers and a beloved treat enjoyed around the globe.

The story of Sacher Torte begins in 1832 when Franz Sacher, a young apprentice chef, was tasked with creating a special dessert for an important guest at the court of Prince Metternich in Vienna, Austria. With limited ingredients available, Sacher combined a light and fluffy chocolate cake with a layer of apricot jam and covered it in a smooth chocolate glaze. The resulting creation was an instant hit, and Sacher Torte quickly gained fame as an iconic Viennese delicacy.

Following the success of the original Sacher Torte, Franz Sacher’s son, Eduard, continued the family tradition by perfecting the recipe and opening the Hotel Sacher in Vienna in 1876. The Hotel Sacher has since become an institution, renowned for its luxurious accommodations and exquisite pastries, including the signature Sacher Torte.

The recipe for Sacher Torte has been closely guarded by the Sacher family for generations, creating a sense of mystique and exclusivity around this beloved dessert. Today, Sacher Torte is not only enjoyed in Vienna but is also available in high-end pastry shops and luxury hotels worldwide, allowing dessert enthusiasts to experience the taste of this Austrian masterpiece wherever they may be.

PREP: 30 MIN

BAKE: 25 MIN. + CHILLING

MAKES: 12-16 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS

FOR THE CAKE:

• 4 ounces (113g) bittersweet chocolate
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 6 large eggs, separated
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (100g) apricot jam

FOR THE CHOCOLATE GLAZE:

• 6 ounces (170g) bittersweet chocolate
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (118ml) water

INSTRUCTIONS

FOR THE CAKE:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a heatproof bowl, melt the bittersweet chocolate over a pot of simmering water. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
3. In a separate mixing bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the egg yolks one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the melted chocolate to the butter mixture, mixing until well combined.
6. In another bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
7. Gently fold the egg whites into the chocolate mixture.
8. Sift the all-purpose flour over the batter and fold it in until just combined.
9. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it out evenly.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
11. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

FOR THE CHOCOLATE GLAZE:

1. In a heatproof bowl, melt the bittersweet chocolate and butter over a pot of simmering water. Stir until smooth and well combined.
2. In a small saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water. Bring to a boil and cook until the sugar has dissolved completely.
3. Gradually pour the sugar syrup into the melted chocolate mixture, stirring continuously until the glaze is smooth and glossy.

ASSEMBLING THE SACHER TORTE:

1. Slice the cooled cake horizontally into two even layers.
2. Spread the apricot jam over the bottom layer of the cake.
3. Place the second layer of the cake on top, pressing lightly to adhere.
4. Pour the chocolate glaze over the top of the cake, spreading it out evenly and allowing it to drip down the sides.
5. Let the glaze set for a few hours at room temperature before serving.
6. Serve slices of Sacher Torte with a dollop of whipped cream or a side of vanilla ice cream for a truly indulgent experience.

Enjoy the luxurious and legendary taste of Sacher Torte, a timeless Viennese classic that has delighted generations of dessert lovers. With its exquisite combination of chocolate, apricot, and a luscious glaze, this cake is sure to impress and satisfy even the most discerning palates.