Birnbrot

Birnbrot, also known as Birnweggen, is a cherished Swiss pastry featuring a sumptuous filling of dried pears. This delightful treat is enjoyed throughout Switzerland and is known by various regional names, such as "Bündener Birnbrot" and "Luzerner Birnweggen."

The filling is a flavorful blend of dried pears, raisins, walnuts, and other dried fruits, enhanced with an aromatic mix of spices including cinnamon, coriander, and star anise. Birnbrot is distinctive because the filling is enveloped in yeast dough, while Birnweggen has the filling rolled into the dough like a roulade.

Various regions add their unique touches to the preparation, such as cooking or searing the pears or soaking them in brandy.

Birnbrot originated as a resourceful way for peasants to extend their costly wheat supplies by incorporating dried fruits. Today, it is a festive delight, particularly savored around Christmas and New Year's Eve. In Engadin, there is even a tradition of gifting it to classmates.

However, you don't need to wait for the holidays to enjoy Birnbrot. In German-speaking areas of Switzerland, it is a year-round favorite, often served with butter and cheese during tea time or as a high-energy snack for hikers and skiers.