Suspiros

Suspiros is a Spanish term that literally means sighs. In everyday usage, suspiro refers to a breath or exhalation, and the plural suspiros is used in various contexts. The word also denotes a family of confectionery found in many Spanish-speaking countries, where it names small, light sweets that are often airy and delicate.

In culinary contexts, suspiros typically describe confections based on beaten egg whites and sugar (meringue) or light cookies and wafers. Recipes and textures vary by region: some versions are crisp and dry, others soft and chewy, and fillings or flavorings may include dulce de leche, cream, cinnamon, or fruit. The regional diversity means that a single name can encompass several distinct styles of sweets.

One of the best-known preparations associated with the name is the Suspiro a la limeña, a Peruvian dessert. It usually consists of a base layer such as manjar blanco or dulce de leche, topped with a light meringue or foam and often finished with a dusting of cinnamon. The dish is emblematic of how the term suspiros can be linked to a refined, airy component in a larger dessert.

Beyond food, suspiros also appear in literary and everyday language as the plural of suspiro, denoting sighs or moments of emotion. Etymologically, the word derives from suspiro, from Latin suspirare, meaning to breathe with emotion.