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Panettone is a traditional Italian Christmas and New Year’s bread, originally from Milan. This tall, dome-shaped, and fluffy bread is rich with butter, eggs, dried fruits, and citrus zest, making it a festive treat enjoyed throughout Italy and beyond.

During the holiday season, Panettone is a symbol of celebration, often shared among families and gifted to friends. The process of making Panettone is time-consuming but rewarding, requiring long fermentation to achieve its light and airy texture.

The History and Tradition of Panettone

The origins of Panettone date back to the 15th century in Milan. One popular legend tells the story of a nobleman who fell in love with a baker’s daughter and disguised himself as a baker to win her heart. He created a sweet bread with butter, sugar, and dried fruits, which became a sensation. Another tale credits a kitchen apprentice named “Toni,” who accidentally invented the bread while preparing a Christmas feast, leading to the name “Pan de Toni” (Toni’s Bread).

Today, Panettone is a staple in Italian Christmas traditions, enjoyed with a cup of coffee, sweet wine, or even used in desserts like bread pudding and French toast.

Ingredients for Traditional Panettone

For the dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup warm milk
• 3 eggs + 1 egg yolk
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon orange zest
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

For the filling:

• 1/2 cup raisins (soaked in rum or warm water for 30 minutes)
• 1/2 cup candied orange peel
• 1/2 cup chopped dried apricots (optional)

For the topping:

• 1 egg white
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• Pearl sugar or sliced almonds for decoration

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Panettone

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk with a teaspoon of sugar.
2. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Add the eggs, egg yolk, vanilla extract, citrus zest, and the yeast mixture. Stir until combined.
3. Gradually add the butter, kneading until a smooth, elastic dough forms. This process can take 10-15 minutes.

Step 3: First Rise

1. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 2-3 hours, until doubled in size.

Step 4: Add the Filling

1. Drain the soaked raisins and mix them with the candied orange peel and dried apricots.
2. Gently fold the fruit into the dough, ensuring even distribution.

Step 5: Second Rise

1. Shape the dough into a round ball and place it in a Panettone mold or a high-sided cake pan lined with parchment paper.
2. Let it rise again for another 2 hours, until it reaches the top of the mold.

Step 6: Bake the Panettone

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Brush the top with egg white mixed with sugar and sprinkle with pearl sugar or sliced almonds.
3. Bake for 35-45 minutes, covering the top with foil if it browns too quickly.
4. The bread is done when a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool the Panettone

1. To prevent deflation, let the Panettone cool upside down by inserting two skewers through the base and suspending it over a large pot.
2. Allow it to cool completely before slicing.

How to Serve and Enjoy

Panettone is best served in thin slices, either plain or lightly toasted. It pairs wonderfully with:

• Espresso or cappuccino for a classic Italian breakfast.
• Sweet wines like Moscato or Vin Santo for a festive pairing.
• Mascarpone cream or chocolate spread for extra indulgence.

Leftover Panettone can be used to make French toast, bread pudding, or trifle, adding new life to this holiday favorite.

Panettone is not just a dessert—it is a symbol of the holiday season, family gatherings, and Italian heritage. Whether enjoyed at Christmas dinner or gifted in a beautifully wrapped box, this golden, fragrant bread brings warmth and joy to the festive season.

Baking Panettone at home requires patience and skill, but the result is a light, flavorful bread that captures the spirit of Christmas. Try making it this holiday season and share a slice of Italian tradition with your loved ones!