How the Linzer tart appeared in Linz

A lattice older than most cakes

The Linzer tart is a real dessert from Linz, Austria. A handwritten recipe dated 1653 is kept at Admont Abbey, so bakers often call it the oldest known cake recipe.

The method is plain to follow: a short crust of ground almonds or hazelnuts, cinnamon and a pinch of clove, a layer of redcurrant or raspberry jam, and a lattice of the same dough. The rim bakes to a deep gold.

In Austria the tart belongs to the cold season, especially the weeks before Christmas, when nut dough and jam hold their shape on the table.

At MuffinTaffin this tart stands with the other cakes. In Budva, Montenegro, guests place orders when they want nuts and jam rather than a tall cream layer.

The sales in Budva follow the Linz idea: a firm tart can be cut ahead for a family table and does not slump in the mild air by the sea.