Panettone Recipe by InfoStarBase

Panettone is a rich, fluffy bread filled with dried fruits and often has a delightful citrus flavor. It may seem daunting, but with patience and love, you can create this festive loaf at home!

Ingredients

For the Starter:

• 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (120ml) warm water
• 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast

For the Dough:

• 3 1/2 cups (420g) all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons instant yeast
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk, warmed
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 orange
• Zest of 1 lemon

For the Filling:

• 1 cup (150g) mixed candied citrus peel (or other dried fruits)
• 1 cup (150g) raisins or sultanas
• 1/2 cup (75g) almond slivers (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Starter

1. In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup all-purpose flour, warm water, and instant yeast. Mix well until you have a smooth batter. Cover with plastic wrap and let it sit in a warm area for about 1–2 hours or until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 1/2 cups of flour, granulated sugar, salt, and instant yeast.
2. In another bowl, combine the warm milk, eggs, softened butter, vanilla extract, and the citrus zests. Mix well.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, then incorporate the starter once it is bubbly and doubled in size. Mix until you form a rough dough.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

1. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
2. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 2 hours or until it has doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape and Add the Filling

1. Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a floured surface and flatten it gently.
2. Add the candied citrus peel, raisins, and almonds (if using). Knead gently to incorporate the fruits into the dough.
3. Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased panettone mold or a high-sided baking dish lined with parchment paper.

Step 5: Second Rise

1. Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise for another 1–2 hours until it reaches the top of the mold.

Step 6: Bake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the panettone for 30–40 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If it browns too quickly, tent it with aluminum foil.

Step 7: Cool

1. Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the mold for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving

Panettone is delightful on its own or toasted with a bit of butter. It pairs wonderfully with coffee or sweet wine. This traditional Italian bread is perfect for sharing during the holiday season, bringing warmth and joy to your celebrations! Enjoy your homemade Panettone!