How to make homemade panettone

Panettone is a traditional Italian sweet bread that is enjoyed around the world during the holiday season. Its light and fluffy texture, along with its rich and fruity flavor, make it a perfect treat to share with family and friends. While store-bought is readily available, there is something special about making it from scratch in the comfort of your own kitchen. If you’re ready to embark on a delicious baking adventure, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make homemade panettone.

To make a homemade panettone, you will need the following ingredients:
– 4 cups all-purpose
– 1 package (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
– ½ cup warm milk
– ⅓ cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– ⅓ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1 cup mixed dried fruits (such as raisins, cranberries, and cherries)
– Zest of 1 orange
– Zest of 1 lemon

Step 1: Activate the yeast
In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This step ensures that the yeast is active and ready to leaven the dough.

Step 2: Mix the dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, eggs, softened butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Gradually add the yeast mixture while mixing the ingredients together. You can use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook or mix the dough by hand until a sticky dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the dough
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. This process is essential for developing the structure of the panettone.

Step 4: Add the fruits and zest
Once the dough is well-kneaded, incorporate the mixed dried fruits, orange zest, and lemon zest. Knead the dough gently again to distribute these flavorful additions evenly.

Step 5: First rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 2 to 3 hours until it doubles in size. This rise allows the dough to ferment and develop its distinct flavor.

Step 6: Shape and second rise
After the first rise, punch down the dough to release any air bubbles. Divide it in half and shape each piece into a smooth round ball. Place the balls into tall, cylindrical panettone paper molds or use greased and floured baking pans if molds are not available. Cover them again with a kitchen towel and let them rise for an additional 2 hours.

Step 7: Bake and cool
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Lightly brush the surface of the risen panettone with beaten egg or milk to achieve a golden crust. Bake for around 40-50 minutes until the top is golden brown. Transfer the panettone to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

Making homemade panettone is an incredibly rewarding experience that will fill your kitchen with the delightful aroma of freshly baked bread. Remember, practice makes perfect, and you may need a few attempts to master the art of panettone. Once you’ve achieved that perfect balance of fluffy, fruit-filled deliciousness, you’ll have a delectable treat to share with your loved ones during the festive season. Enjoy and buon appetito!