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Panettone is a classic Italian Christmas bread that has become a favorite worldwide. Its tall, fluffy texture and rich flavor make it a perfect treat for the holiday season. Making traditional panettone at home can be a rewarding experience, though it requires patience and attention to detail.
Ingredients Needed
- 500g all-purpose flour
- 150g sugar
- 200g unsalted butter
- 4 large eggs
- 200ml milk
- 25g fresh yeast or 8g dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Rind of 1 lemon and 1 orange
- 150g dried raisins or candied orange peel
- Vanilla extract (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Start by activating the yeast. Warm the milk slightly and dissolve the yeast in it. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until frothy. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and citrus rinds. Add the activated yeast mixture, eggs, and vanilla if using. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
Gradually add softened butter to the dough, kneading thoroughly until smooth and elastic. This process can take about 15 minutes by hand or 8 minutes in a stand mixer with a dough hook. Incorporate the dried fruit towards the end of kneading.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 2 to 3 hours, or until doubled in size. Punch down the dough gently and shape it into a tall, round form fitting your panettone mold.
Insert the dough into a paper-lined panettone mold or a tall, cylindrical baking pan. Cover again and let it rise for another 2 hours until it reaches the top of the mold.
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the panettone for 40-50 minutes, or until golden brown and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool slightly before removing from the mold.
Enjoying Your Panettone
Slice your homemade panettone and enjoy it plain, with a spread of butter, or a dusting of powdered sugar. It’s perfect for holiday breakfast or as a festive dessert. Sharing this traditional treat brings a taste of Italy into your home during the holidays.