The Best Traditional Italian Panettone Recipe
Italy is renowned for its rich culinary heritage, and among its many delightful confections, panettone holds a special place during festive celebrations. This traditional Italian sweet bread is known for its fluffy texture and sweet flavor, often studded with candied fruits and raisins. If you're eager to try your hand at making an authentic panettone at home, follow this comprehensive recipe to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
To create a scrumptious panettone, gather the following ingredients:
- 500g all-purpose flour
- 150g sugar
- 200ml milk
- 100g unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 packet (7g) active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 150g candied citrus peel, chopped
- 100g raisins
- 50g almond slices (optional)
- Extra butter for greasing
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a small bowl, warm the milk until it's just lukewarm. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the milk and let it sit for about 10 minutes until foamy. This ensures the yeast is active and ready to help your panettone rise.
In a large mixing bowl, combine 250g of flour with the sugar and salt. Create a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until a sticky dough begins to form.
Step 2: Knead the Dough
Add the remaining flour, about 250g, and knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10-15 minutes. Incorporate the softened butter gradually while kneading, continuing until the mixture becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little extra flour; if it's too dry, a splash of milk can help.
Step 3: The First Rise
Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for about 2 hours or until doubled in size.
Step 4: Add Fruits
Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air. Fold in the candied citrus peel, raisins, and almond slices if using. Ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 5: Shape and Second Rise
Shape the dough into a ball again and place it in a panettone mold or a tall round cake pan. Cover it loosely with a cloth and let it rise again for about 1-1.5 hours, or until the dough reaches the top of the mold.
Step 6: Bake the Panettone
Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Once the panettone has risen, use a sharp knife to make a shallow cross on the top of the dough. This helps it expand while baking. Bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
After removing the panettone from the oven, let it cool in the mold for about 20 minutes. Then, gently remove it and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, slice your panettone and serve it fresh, paired with a glass of Vin Santo or your favorite dessert wine.
Tips for Perfecting Your Panettone
For an even more authentic panettone experience, consider these tips:
- Use high-quality ingredients, especially flour and butter.
- Allow for ample rising time to achieve that fluffy texture.
- Experiment with different dried fruits, such as cranberries or figs, for a unique twist.
- Store your panettone in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.
Enjoy the delightful experience of creating and sharing this classic Italian panettone recipe with loved ones during the festive season or whenever you crave a taste of Italy!