Vínarterta

01 / ABOUT THE DISH

About the dish

This layered Icelandic dessert is known as randalín or vínarterta (Vienna cake). Although the cake is incredibly versatile and its exact form and ingredients are often debated, it traditionally consists of thin shortbread layers that are coated with rhubarb, prune, strawberry, or apricot. The cookie-like layers are usually flavored with vanilla, cardamom, or cinnamon, and the entire cake is sometimes garnished with icing. Vínarterta originated in Iceland, but nowadays it enjoys more popularity in Icelandic communities in the United States and Canada. The cake is a Christmas favorite, but it can also be served on other special occasions.