Indulge in the irresistible flavor of a homemade classic Italian panettone. This light and fluffy sweet bread, filled with dried fruits and nuts, is a perfect treat during the holiday season. Follow this step-by-step recipe to bake your own panettone from scratch and impress your family and friends. The rich aroma and buttery texture will make this panettone a favorite for years to come.
Ingredients
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup diced candied orange peel
- 1/4 cup chopped almonds
- 1/4 cup chopped dried apricots
- 1/4 cup chopped dried cranberries
Directions
- In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
- Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the yeast mixture, eggs, softened butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 2 hours or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and knead in the raisins, candied orange peel, chopped almonds, dried apricots, and dried cranberries until evenly distributed.
- Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a panettone mold or a tall, round, parchment-lined baking pan.
- Cover the pan with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise for another 1-2 hours until it reaches the top of the mold.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the panettone for 45-55 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove the panettone from the oven and let it cool in the mold for 10 minutes.
- Transfer the panettone to a wire rack to cool completely before serving. Enjoy!
