Meringue.
The sweet invention from Meiringen.
Some claim that meringue is a French invention. Others say it is Italian. We know that it all began in Meiringen, and we let the taste speak for itself. For centuries, egg whites have been whipped into a delicacy there that once even tempted royalty.
Delicate, white, and heavenly light
Meringue is an integral part of Swiss dessert culture. It is said to have originated around 1600 in Meiringen, where Italian confectioner Gasparini first whipped egg whites and sugar into crispy, airy shells, creating a new, tempting delicacy. In reference to the village of Meiringen, he called them “meringues.”
All the way to the royal courts
Evidence of this origin story was discovered before World War II in the Museum of Culinary Art in Frankfurt, but tragically fell victim to the turmoil of war. What remains is the legend and a recipe that went on to conquer Europe. It was as popular at the French court as it was in England. Queen Elizabeth I is said to have raved about a “kiss,” which probably explains the French name: “baiser,” meaning kiss.
Modern variations
Today, Meiringen is proud of its sweet flagship product. The FRUTAL mail-order bakery in the center of the village produces over 30 tons of meringues every year. The range includes classic flavors such as plain and chocolate, but also surprising meringue creations such as Baileys coffee, raspberry, caramel, and cinnamon. If you can't decide or are looking for a special gift, there is a “Gschnöisi-Säckli” bag with five different flavors.
Important information
Take the Zentralbahn railway to Meiringen.
Further information can be found on the Haslital Tourism website and the Frutal Versandbäckerei website.
Location
Meiringen. Ursprungsort der Meringues.
Bahnhofstrasse 18
3860 Meiringen