For Your Table
Kayla Howey
Pass the panettone
Try an Italian holiday staple that’s been popular for centuries
by Jen Madera
A traditional offering at Italian Christmases, panettone (pronounced pa-neh-TOE-neh) is a cake or sweet bread studded with dried fruits, such as candied orange peel and sultanas. This signature holiday cake originated in Milan and is now popular worldwide. Panettone is cut vertically and served in slices, and can be accompanied by warm beverages, such as coffee or tea, or a sweet wine.
Legend has it
The origin of panettone is rife with mystery. According to Italoamericano.org, one legend claims a young man, in love with the baker’s daughter, invented panettone and saved the bakery from bankruptcy, while another details a nun that cut a cross into the top of the bread, creating the traditional four-sectioned dome shape.
According to Italymagazine.com, another tale occurs at Ludovico Sforza’s royal court at Christmastime in the 15th century, when the baker accidentally burned the dessert in the oven. Toni, a member of the kitchen staff, offered a sweet bread he’d baked previously with leftover ingredients. The bread was well-received, and was named pan de Toni, or “Toni’s bread”—which became panettone.
Bake it till you make it
Baking your own panettone is a challenging endeavour. It starts with the proofing—or proving—process, which involves resting the dough and allowing it to rise before baking. The dough used for panettone is acidic, similar to sourdough, and undergoes fermentation, giving panettone its characteristic fluffiness, softness, porous texture and a hint of sweetness.
Panettone is as versatile as it is delicious. Look for versions stuffed with fruit, laced with chocolate or topped with nuts or a glaze. Or, get creative and transform your panettone leftovers into one of the recipes on the next page.
With so many options available, pick up some panettone this holiday season and start your own legend.
COSTCO CONNECTION: A variety of panettone can be found in Costco warehouses. Groceries are available for delivery through Costco Grocery at Costco.ca.