Tirggel

Tirggel are traditional Christmas biscuits from Zürich, Switzerland. They are thin, hard, and honey-sweetened cookies with embossed designs. These designs often depict historical scenes, biblical figures, or traditional Swiss motifs.

Tirggel are typically made from a dough consisting primarily of honey, flour, and spices like ginger, anise, and coriander. No fat or water is added to the dough. The dough is pressed into intricately carved wooden molds, which give the biscuits their distinctive embossed appearance. The pressed dough is then baked at a low temperature, which allows the designs to become clearly defined and the biscuits to harden without browning significantly.

Traditionally, Tirggel were made in Zurich homes, but today they are primarily produced by a few specialized bakeries. The tradition of eating Tirggel dates back centuries, with some historians tracing its origins to medieval times. They are typically enjoyed during Advent and around Christmas.