Birnbrot

The delectable Swiss treat known as birnbrot is a pastry filled with dried pears as the key ingredient. Other ingredients might include walnuts, raisins, dried figs, some kind of alcohol (usually brandy) and spices such as cinnamon, cloves, coriander, and anise. Another name for this pastry is birnweggen, but the two are different because birnweggen is typically prepared by spreading the filling on the dough, then rolling the whole thing like a roulade, while birnbrot’s filling is fully encased within the dough. In the past, birnbrot was a peasants’ staple, but nowadays it is traditionally prepared during the festive Christmas period, when it is enjoyed by people of all socioeconomic classes. It is recommended to pair it with wine or cheese.