festive Homemade Fruit-Studded Panettone

Festive Homemade Fruit-Studded Panettone

Festive Homemade Fruit-Studded Panettone

This delightful Festive Homemade Fruit-Studded Panettone is a traditional Italian bread that is perfect for the holiday season. Known for its tall dome shape and tender crumb, panettone is filled with a medley of dried fruits and often enjoyed during Christmas and New Year celebrations. This recipe captures the essence of festive gatherings, offering a sweet, fruity flavor profile complemented by a soft, airy texture. Each slice is a celebration of flavors, making it a unique centerpiece for your holiday table.

Prep and Cook Times

  • Prep Time: 3 hours (including rising time)
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 3 hours 45 minutes
  • Skill Level: Intermediate

Serving Information

  • Yield: 1 large panettone (serves about 10-12)
  • Serving Suggestions: Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar, alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea. Pair with mascarpone cheese or a drizzle of honey for added indulgence.

Ingredients List

  • 4 cups (500g) all-purpose Flour
  • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons (7g) instant yeast
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, warmed to 110°F (43°C)
  • 3 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup (75g) mixed dried fruits (such as raisins, candied orange peel, and dried cherries), chopped if large
  • 1/4 cup (40g) chopped nuts (like almonds or hazelnuts), optional

Substitutions: For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. For a dairy-free option, substitute the butter with coconut oil and the milk with almond milk.

Equipment List

  • Baking bowl
  • Stand mixer with dough hook (or a mixing bowl and wooden spoon)
  • 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan or a panettone mold
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Kitchen thermometer (for checking milk temperature)
  • Plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel

The stand mixer is essential for kneading the dough efficiently, but a hand mixer or your hands can work as well if you prefer.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Mix well.
  2. In a separate bowl, combine the warmed milk and instant yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
  3. Add the eggs, softened butter, and vanilla extract to the flour mixture. Pour in the yeast mixture and combine until a dough forms.
  4. If using a stand mixer, knead the dough on medium speed for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If kneading by hand, work the dough on a floured surface for 15 minutes.
  5. Incorporate the dried fruits and nuts (if using) into the dough, mixing until evenly distributed.
  6. Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm area for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
  7. Once risen, punch down the dough and shape it again into a ball. Place it in the prepared cake pan or panettone mold. Cover and let rise for another 1-2 hours.
  8. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the panettone for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  9. Let the panettone cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Technique Tips and Troubleshooting

  • Kneading: Ensure the dough is smooth and elastic. If it feels too sticky, sprinkle in a little extra flour as needed.
  • First Rise: If your kitchen is cool, consider placing the dough in an oven with the light on to create a warm environment.
  • Common Issues: If the panettone collapses during baking, it may be due to under-proofing; ensure it’s fully risen before baking.

Plating and Presentation

Once cooled, slice the panettone into thick wedges. For an elegant presentation, serve it on a wooden board or a decorative cake stand. Dust lightly with powdered sugar for a festive touch, and consider adding a sprig of fresh rosemary or a few dried fruits on the side for color.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

  • Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: To enjoy warm slices, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

Variations and Customizations

  • Add 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract for a nutty flavor.
  • Incorporate chocolate chips or orange zest for a different twist.
  • For a vegan version, use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and replace the butter with coconut oil.

Notes on Ingredients and Equipment

Use high-quality dried fruits for the best flavor. If you can find them, opt for organic ingredients. A panettone mold gives the traditional shape, but a regular cake pan works fine. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best rise.

Final Touches and Personal Notes

This recipe holds a special place in my heart, as I discovered it while spending a winter in Italy, where I first tasted authentic panettone. Gathering around the table with loved ones to share this treat has become a cherished holiday tradition. I encourage you to experiment with flavors and make this recipe your own; each panettone can tell a different story!

If you try this recipe, let me know how it turned out in the comments! Happy baking!

Marcella
Marcella

Marcella Gucci embodies a warm, inviting, and adventurous spirit. Her tone is friendly yet knowledgeable, blending passion for culinary exploration with a genuine love for travel. She communicates with enthusiasm, inspiring her audience to embrace new flavors and cultures.

As the founder of Travel Foodie, Marcella is a culinary enthusiast and globe-trotter. With a keen eye for detail and an appreciation for diverse food cultures, she curates experiences that connect people through the universal language of food. Marcella’s mission is to transform culinary dreams into reality, guiding her audience on a delectable journey around the world.

Travel Foodie where culinary curiosity meets wanderlust! This site is your passport to a world of flavors, offering a delightful mix of travel tips, authentic recipes, and immersive culinary experiences. Whether you’re planning your next adventure or simply looking to spice up your kitchen, we will serves up inspiration and tasty tidbits that will leave you hungry for more. Bon appétit!

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