Kaffeehaus: Exquisite Desserts from the Classic Cafes of Vienna, Budapest, and Prague

Take a tour of the legendary cafés of Vienna, Budapest, and Prague where a rich tradition of masterful desserts and coffee lives on. For centuries, artists and philosophers have gathered around coffeehouse tables to complement their lively conversations with exquisite desserts. Modern cafés of this region remain loyal to this pastry tradition; though the décor has changed, it is still strudel – not lemongrass sorbet – that is served on the menu.

In Kaffeehaus, Rick Rodgers celebrates 300 years of tradition with over 150 of the best classic Austro-Hungarian pastries. Using his celebrated skill as a teacher to present the recipes to bakers of all levels, Rodgers expertly shows how to create these glorious treats at home. Included are the explanations of the different kinds of batter, dough, and icing that form the foundation of this baking tradition, in addition to the many beverages – coffee or otherwise – that pair perfectly with the desserts.

Kaffeehaus beautifully captures the taste and elegance of these cafés, commemorating their culture, history, and the delectable legacy of their desserts.