Rigitüfel – a cookie that stands out from the crowd: among all the traditional baked goods from Central Switzerland, there is one cookie that attracts attention with its name alone: the Rigitüfel. Baked in the Chilästägli bakery in Arth, it deliciously combines artisan baking with a pinch of mischief – and is reminiscent of the old stories and legends surrounding Mount Rigi, the Queen of the Mountains.
The Devil at the Rigi – Legends and Folklore
For centuries, Mount Rigi has inspired stories not only of serene landscapes and royal splendor, but also of darker, more mysterious tales. In local folklore, the “Tüfel” – the devil – often makes his appearance. He is said to have startled hikers, danced with tongues of fire, or haunted the cliffs and rocks with mischief.
But in Swiss tradition, the devil is not always terrifying. More often, he appears as a mischievous trickster – a reminder of the untamed power of nature. The Rigitüfel pastry picks up on this playful image: sweet, spicy, and with a teasing spark that lingers on the palate.
From Legend to Bakery – The Birth of the Rigitüfel
The Chilästägli bakery in Arth has long been known for preserving regional traditions while also daring to reinterpret them. Inspired by the myths and sagas of the Rigi, the idea was born to create a pastry that would carry the devil’s name – bold, cheeky, and unforgettable.
Thus, the Rigitüfel became the fiery counterpart to the better-known Rigibock from nearby Goldau. While the Rigibock symbolizes pride and strength, the Rigitüfel stands for wit, spice, and a little bit of provocation.
A Recipe with a Spark
What makes the Rigitüfel so special? The exact recipe is a carefully guarded secret of the Chilästägli bakery. Yet those who taste it soon discover its trademark: a combination of sweet indulgence with a subtle fiery note.
Crisp pastry embraces a filling that reveals unexpected depth – perhaps a hint of spice, a whisper of chili, or bold flavors that linger long after the first bite. First comes sweetness, then a gentle heat unfolds – like a playful grin that catches you by surprise.
This interplay of opposites – sweet and spicy, light and dark, heaven and hell – defines the Rigitüfel.
The Devil as an Ambassador of the Rigi
Though its name may sound mischievous, the Rigitüfel is in fact a true ambassador of the region. It tells a story deeply rooted in the cultural fabric of Central Switzerland: the awe of nature, the fascination with myth, and the joy of blending tradition with humor.
Visitors passing through Arth on their way to Mount Rigi often take a Rigitüfel along. It is more than a snack – it is a souvenir with character, carrying with it a tale as rich as its taste.
A Culinary Experience – When to Enjoy the Rigitüfel
The Rigitüfel is versatile, making it more than just a coffee-time companion:
- as a daring bite alongside a glass of red wine,
- as a sweet and spicy treat during a mountain hike,
- or as a conversation starter on a festive table.
Each time, it comes with a story. To serve the Rigitüfel is to serve folklore, and that makes it a culinary anecdote as much as a delicacy.
The Rigitüfel from the Chilästägli bakery is more than just a pastry. It is a culinary tale, inspired by the myths surrounding the Queen of the Mountains. With its combination of sweetness and fiery spice, it captures the playful, the surprising, and the human side of tradition.
“A visit to Mount Rigi – the Queen of the Mountains – is always one of the highlights of my exclusive luxury trips through Switzerland,” says Brigitte Heller, General Manager and personal tour guide of “Luxury Travel Switzerland”.
“My guests not only enjoy the unique atmosphere of this magical place, but also the legendary Rigitüfel or Rigibock. In combination with the special energy of the mountain, this creates an incomparable feeling of happiness and fulfillment.”