Few are as iconic and delightful as the Salzburger Nockerl. This light, fluffy, and sweet soufflé hails from Salzburg, the city of Mozart, and is a must-try for anyone passionate about traditional European cuisine. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll share an authentic Salzburger Nockerl recipe, perfect for impressing your guests or indulging in a taste of Austria right at home.

What is Salzburger Nockerl Recipe?
Salzburger Nockerl Recipe is a traditional Austrian dessert known for its airy, meringue-like texture. The dish is typically shaped into three golden peaks, symbolizing Salzburg’s surrounding mountains: Mönchsberg, Kapuzinerberg, and Gaisberg. Lightly dusted with powdered sugar, these peaks resemble snow-capped summits, making it as visually stunning as it is delicious.
This dessert is a sweet soufflé made primarily from egg whites, sugar, flour, and a hint of vanilla or lemon zest. It’s best served warm, straight from the oven, often with a berry compote or light custard on the side.
Ingredients for Salzburger Nockerl Recipe
To create this classic Austrian dessert, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Nockerl:
- 6 large egg whites
- 4 large egg yolks
- 100g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or 1 packet of vanilla sugar)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for added freshness)
- 40g (1/3 cup) all-purpose flour, sifted
- A pinch of salt
For the Baking Dish:
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for greasing)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for dusting)
For Garnish:
- Powdered sugar (to resemble snow)
- Fresh berries or berry compote (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparing the Baking Dish
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).
- Generously butter a large, oven-safe dish (like a ceramic or glass baking dish).
- Sprinkle the dish with granulated sugar to prevent sticking and add a caramelized touch to the bottom of the dessert.
2. Making the Meringue Base
- In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add the granulated sugar while continuing to beat until stiff, glossy peaks form.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the vanilla extract and lemon zest until creamy and pale.
3. Combining Ingredients
- Using a spatula, gently fold the egg yolk mixture into the stiff egg whites, being careful not to deflate the meringue.
- Sift the flour over the mixture and fold it in gently until just combined. The batter should remain light and airy.
4. Shaping the Nockerl
- Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking dish, shaping it into three large, mountain-like peaks.
- Avoid flattening the batter—the peaks should stand tall, symbolizing the Salzburg mountains.
5. Baking
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes until the peaks are golden brown.
- The interior should remain soft and slightly creamy, while the exterior develops a light crust.
6. Serving
- Dust generously with powdered sugar to create the appearance of snow-capped mountains.
- Serve immediately, as Salzburger Nockerl deflates quickly after baking.
- Optional: Add a side of fresh berries or warm berry compote for a burst of fruity flavor.
Tips for Perfect Salzburger Nockerl
- Use Fresh Eggs: Fresh eggs create a more stable meringue, resulting in fluffier peaks.
- Beat Egg Whites Correctly: Ensure your mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean and dry to achieve stiff peaks.
- Fold Gently: Maintain the airiness of the batter by folding the ingredients gently.
- Serve Immediately: This dessert is best enjoyed fresh from the oven when it’s still warm and fluffy.
- Add a Touch of Citrus: A hint of lemon zest adds brightness and balances the sweetness.
Variations of Salzburger Nockerl
While the traditional recipe is cherished, you can try these variations:
- Chocolate Nockerl: Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the flour for a chocolaty twist.
- Nutty Delight: Fold in finely ground almonds or hazelnuts for added texture and flavor.
- Fruit-Infused: Layer fresh raspberries or blueberries at the bottom of the baking dish before adding the meringue for a fruity surprise.
The History Behind Salzburger Nockerl
Salzburger Nockerl is said to have been created in the 17th century by Salome Alt, the mistress of Salzburg’s Archbishop Wolf Dietrich von Raitenau. The dessert quickly became a symbol of Salzburg’s rich culinary heritage, representing the beauty of the city’s mountainous landscape. Today, it’s a beloved dish served in Austrian cafes and restaurants, especially in Salzburg.
Nutritional Information
While the Salzburger Nockerl recipe is an indulgent treat, it’s relatively light compared to other desserts:
- Calories: Approximately 200-250 per serving (depending on portion size)
- Protein: High due to egg content
- Low Fat: Minimal fat since it relies mostly on egg whites
- Gluten-Friendly: Use gluten-free flour if needed
FAQs
1: Can I prepare Salzburger Nockerl in advance?
No, this dessert is best prepared and baked fresh. The meringue loses its fluffiness if left to sit before baking.
2: Why did my Nockerl collapse after baking?
This is normal! Salzburger Nockerl naturally deflates after a few minutes out of the oven. The key is to serve it immediately while it’s still warm and airy.
3: Can I make it without flour for a gluten-free version?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative like almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
4: What’s the best way to separate egg whites from yolks?
Use cold eggs, as the yolks are firmer and less likely to break. Separate each egg over a small bowl before adding it to the main mixing bowl to avoid contaminating the whites with the yolk.
5: Can I use an electric mixer for the entire recipe?
Use an electric mixer for beating the egg whites, but switch to a spatula for folding in the yolks and flour to prevent deflating the mixture.
Conclusion
Salzburger Nockerl is more than just a dessert—it’s a piece of Austrian history served on a plate. Its delicate, airy texture and beautiful presentation make it a standout dish for special occasions or whenever you want to treat yourself to something truly unique. With this authentic recipe, you can bring the charm of Salzburg into your kitchen and impress your family and friends with a taste of Austria. Enjoy every fluffy, sweet bite!