Classic Italian Panettone Recipe

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

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
3. 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.
4. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. 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.
6. Punch down the dough and knead in the raisins, candied orange peel, chopped almonds, dried apricots, and dried cranberries until evenly distributed.
7. Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a panettone mold or a tall, round, parchment-lined baking pan.
8. 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.
9. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
10. Bake the panettone for 45-55 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
11. Remove the panettone from the oven and let it cool in the mold for 10 minutes.
12. Transfer the panettone to a wire rack to cool completely before serving. Enjoy!

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