Panettone Recipe: How to Make the Classic Italian Christmas Bread

Introduction

Panettone is a classic Italian Christmas bread that is enjoyed by many people around the world. This sweet and fluffy bread is made with raisins, candied orange and lemon peel, and a touch of vanilla extract. It is perfect for the holidays or any special occasion. In this blog post, we will teach you how to make the perfect panettone with this easy-to-follow recipe.

Ingredients

• 500g bread flour
• 100g sugar
• 200g butter
• 6 egg yolks
• 1 lemon (zest)
• 1 orange (zest)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 150g raisins
• 150g candied orange peel
• 150g candied lemon peel
• 25g fresh yeast
• 200ml warm milk

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, crumble the yeast and mix it with 100ml of warm milk and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let it sit for 10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and lemon and orange zest. Mix well.
3. Add the frothy yeast mixture, the remaining warm milk, and the egg yolks. Mix until the dough comes together.
4. Add the soft butter and vanilla extract. Mix well until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Add the raisins, candied orange peel, and candied lemon peel. Mix well.
6. Grease a panettone mold or a deep cake tin with butter. Transfer the dough to the mold and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
7. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Using a sharp knife, make a cross on top of the dough. Place a small piece of butter in the center of the cross.
8. Bake the panettone for 1 hour or until it becomes golden brown. If the top starts to brown too much, cover it with aluminum foil.
9. Remove the panettone from the oven and let it cool completely before slicing and serving.

Variations

• Chocolate Panettone: Add 200g of chocolate chips to the dough to make a chocolate panettone.
• Limoncello Panettone: Add 50ml of limoncello to the dough for a lemony twist.
• Vegan Panettone: Replace the butter with coconut oil and the egg yolks with aquafaba (the liquid from a can of chickpeas) for a vegan version of panettone.

Conclusion

Panettone is a delicious and festive bread that is perfect for the holidays. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can make your own panettone at home and impress your friends and family. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and make this classic Italian bread your own. Enjoy!

FAQ

What is panettone?

Panettone is a sweet Italian bread that is typically enjoyed during the holiday season. It is usually filled with candied fruits and raisins and has a light, fluffy texture.

Can I make panettone from scratch?

Yes, you can make panettone from scratch, but it can be a bit time-consuming and requires some skill. You will need to allow enough time for the dough to rise and proof properly.

Can I make panettone without a stand mixer?

Yes, you can make panettone without a stand mixer, but it will require a bit more effort to knead the dough by hand. Be sure to knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic.

Can I add different types of fruit to my panettone?

Yes, you can add different types of fruit to your panettone. Some popular options include dried cranberries, apricots, or figs. You can also add nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor.

How do I store panettone?

Store your panettone in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.

What is the best way to serve panettone?

Panettone is typically served sliced and toasted, with butter or jam. You can also enjoy it as a dessert, with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

How long does it take to make panettone?

It typically takes around 6-8 hours to make panettone from start to finish, including rise and proofing time.

Can I make panettone ahead of time?

Yes, you can make panettone ahead of time. Simply store it in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze it until you are ready to serve it.

How do I know when my panettone is done baking?

Your panettone is done baking when it is golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also use a cake tester or toothpick to check for doneness – it should come out clean when inserted into the center of the bread.

Can I make mini panettone?

Yes, you can make mini panettone by using smaller molds or muffin tins. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.