A slice of Linz to bake yourself
The traditional Linz-based patisserie Jindrak shows just how this works. Founded in 1929, this family-run business is regarded as the ‘home of the original Linzer Torte’ and bakes more than 100,000 of these famous specialities every year.
At the Linzer Torte workshops, anyone interested can experience for themselves what true pastry-making craftsmanship is all about. Under expert guidance, participants create their very own Original Linzer Torte step by step – and in doing so, produce far more than just a pastry. After all, anyone who kneads the dough themselves, spreads the redcurrant jam and shapes the characteristic lattice pattern gains a real sense of just how much experience and precision go into a traditional product.
It is precisely this passing on of knowledge that brings craftsmanship to life. Tradition is not merely preserved, but experienced, understood and passed on to the next generation.
A cake with over 350 years of history
The Linzer Torte is the perfect example of this. It is considered the oldest known cake named after a city. It was first mentioned in writing as early as 1653. Even back then, there were several variations of the recipe, which is an indication of just how widespread this speciality already was during the Baroque period.
Today, it is recognisable at a glance by its characteristic lattice top. The Jindrak recipe combines, amongst other ingredients, butter, hazelnuts, cinnamon and cloves with fruity redcurrant jam. In this way, the Linzer Torte has been combining flavour with regional identity for centuries.
Knowledge passed down through the generations
Master confectioner Leo Jindrak sums up just how important it is to stay true to artisanal roots: “Just as in my grandfather’s day, we still bake according to traditional recipes today.”
#It’s brilliant that successful craftsmanship is characterised, amongst other things, by preserving time-honoured traditions whilst inspiring people to try them out for themselves.
