Bring the Magic of Italian Christmas to Your Kitchen
Panettone is one of the most beloved Christmas bakes in the world. Tall, golden, soft as clouds and filled with fruity sweetness, this Italian Christmas bread has been enjoyed for over 500 years. Its delicate texture, gentle citrus aroma and beautiful domed shape make it a centrepiece dessert for festive gatherings, breakfasts and gifting.
This recipe teaches you how to make a luxury homemade Panettone that is light, airy, buttery and far superior to supermarket versions. With step-by-step instructions and simple ingredients, you can enjoy authentic Italian Christmas baking at home.
Whether served on Christmas morning, paired with coffee, shared with guests, or wrapped as a beautiful homemade gift, this Panettone recipe will fill your home with festive aromas and warm holiday cheer.
A Short History of Panettone – The Pride of Milan
Panettone originates from Milan, Italy, where it was first created during the Renaissance. What began as a simple enriched bread has evolved into the iconic tall, dome-shaped Christmas cake known today. Traditionally, Panettone is made with a long fermentation process that creates its signature airy crumb and rich depth of flavour.
Legend has it that Panettone was invented by a Milanese baker named Toni, which is why many Italians still call it “Pane di Toni” — Toni’s Bread. Today, Panettone is shared across Europe during the festive season, symbolising celebration, generosity and the spirit of Christmas.
According to BBC Good Food, Panettone has been a festive staple in Milan for centuries.
How to Make This Panettone
Making this luxury homemade Panettone is easier than you think. You’ll prepare a rich, buttery dough, knead it until smooth, let it rise slowly, then fold in rum-soaked fruit for extra flavour. After shaping and proving in a tall Panettone case, it’s baked until golden and cooled upside-down to keep its iconic tall, fluffy structure. Follow the simple steps and you’ll have a beautifully soft, fragrant Italian Christmas bread straight from your oven.
Luxury Homemade Panettone
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 450 g strong white bread flour
- 100 g caster sugar
- 7 g fast-action yeast
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 4 large eggs (room temperature)
- 120 ml warm milk
- 150 g unsalted butter, softened
- 1 Zest of 1 orange
- 1 Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp honey
Fruit Filling:
- 120 g raisins or sultanas
- 60 g mixed peel or chopped dried apricots
- 2 tbsp rum or orange juice
- 1 tbsp rum or orange juice
Notes
Nutrition
Serving Suggestions
Serve Warm with Butter, Mascarpone or Clotted Cream
Panettone is at its most indulgent when enjoyed slightly warm. Spread each slice with soft salted butter for a rich, comforting finish, or elevate it further with a dollop of silky mascarpone or classic clotted cream. The creamy texture melts into the warm, airy crumb, creating a beautifully luxurious Christmas treat.
Enjoy with Espresso or Hot Chocolate on Christmas Morning
A slice of freshly baked Panettone makes the perfect Christmas morning breakfast. Pair it with a strong Italian espresso for an authentic Milanese experience, or serve with a mug of creamy hot chocolate for a cosy, family-friendly moment. The gentle sweetness of the bread pairs wonderfully with warm festive drinks.
Toast Slices Lightly and Drizzle with Honey
For a quick and irresistible twist, toast thick slices of Panettone until lightly caramelised. Once golden, drizzle with honey or maple syrup for a glossy, fragrant finish. This simple serving idea enhances the citrus notes and adds a gentle crispness while keeping the centre soft and fluffy.
Use Leftovers for Panettone French Toast
Turn leftover Panettone into the ultimate luxury breakfast with Panettone French Toast. Dip slices into a mixture of eggs, cream, sugar and cinnamon, then pan-fry until golden. Serve with berries, syrup or whipped cream. It’s one of the most delicious ways to repurpose leftover festive bread and guaranteed to impress guests.
Wrap in Cellophane and Gift to Friends and Family
Homemade Panettone makes a stunning edible Christmas gift. Wrap the entire loaf in festive cellophane, tie with ribbon and add a gift tag for a thoughtful, artisan-style present. Panettone keeps beautifully when wrapped well, making it ideal for gifting to neighbours, colleagues or loved ones.
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