Published on 21 October 2022

The oldest cake recipe in the world

An Austrian gem

Linzer torte

While researching the oldest cake recipe recorded, a name kept popping: Linzer Torte. This now extremely popular Austrian delicacy can be found in a 1653 handwritten cookbook by the Countess Anna Margarita Sagramosa of Austria. This sweet treat was baked in the same manner as a pie, with a delectable crust made of buttery almonds, then it was topped with a latticework crust and filled with black currant preserves. The recipe was invented utilising a crust made of nuts rather than of wheat flour due to the fact that nuts were more readily available than wheat flour at the time. The specialty was later baptised Linzertorte after the city of Linz where it was made popular. In addition to being the oldest recorded cake recipe, it is the oldest cake that has been given the name of a city.

The Linzer Torte

Now, the linzer torte is characterised by a buttery, crumbly pastry shell that is topped with lemon juice, cinnamon, and either almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts. This delicious confection is traditionally filled with raspberry jam or apricot jam; however, redcurrant jam can also be used. A lattice crust is placed on top of the cake and meticulously put in a crisscross pattern to give it a one-of-a-kind appearance. According to Jindrak, an Austrian confectioner famous for their Linzertorte, the origin of the cake may be traced back to after the Countess Anna Margarita Sagramosa, in the year 1696. No one is really sure of the identity of the person who named the recipe or invented the cake but we are thankful they did!

linzer

The well-known cake is now considered an authentic tradition in Austria during the Christmas season. It is most commonly eaten on Christmas Day, when it should preferably be served warm, accompanied with a small portion of whipped cream and dusted with some powdered sugar.

Last words

We hoped you enjoyed this little dive into the oldest cake recipe in the world. If this article has given you some serious cake cravings, do not worry! You will be able to find a variety of cakes and sweet treats for any craving or occasion on our website. We offer birthday cakes, wedding cakes, mend cakes, personalised cakes, brownies, cookies and much more. All of our cakes are freshly baked to order. We offer same day cake delivery around London and within the M25. So treat yourself and your family!