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Italian Christmas Bread (Panettone-Style) Recipe

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4.1 from 86 reviews

  • Author: Chef
  • Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: 1 large loaf (about 10-inch tall panettone)
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A festive Italian sweet bread filled with dried fruit and citrus zest, this Panettone-style loaf is light, buttery, and perfect for holiday mornings. Its tender crumb and sweet flavor make it a delightful centerpiece for Christmas breakfasts or seasonal celebrations.

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ¼ cup raisins
  • ½ cup mixed dried fruit

Wet Ingredients

  • ½ cup warm milk
  • 1 packet (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast
  • 3 eggs
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • Zest of 1 orange

Topping

  • Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

  1. Proof the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk with 1 teaspoon of sugar and sprinkle the active dry yeast on top. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
  2. Mix dry and wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, the remaining sugar, and salt. Add the softened butter, eggs, and orange zest. Pour in the proofed yeast mixture and stir until the dough begins to come together.
  3. Knead the dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead vigorously for about 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Gradually incorporate the mixed dried fruit and raisins into the dough during the kneading process.
  4. First rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and allow it to rise in a warm place for about 1½ hours, or until it has doubled in size.
  5. Shape and second rise: Punch down the dough gently and transfer it into a greased panettone mold or a tall cake pan. Cover and let it rise again for 30 minutes until puffy.
  6. Bake the bread: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
  7. Cool and finish: Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack. Just before serving, dust generously with powdered sugar for a festive touch.

Notes

  • For a modern twist, substitute the dried fruit with chocolate chips for a chocolaty version.
  • Store the bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or an airtight container; it keeps well for up to 5 days at room temperature.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Find it online: https://kitchenmartha.com/italian-christmas-bread-panettone-style-recipe/