Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons active dry yeast
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 6 to 7 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups mixed dried fruits and nuts
- 1/2 cup icing sugar
- 2 tablespoons freshly-squeezed lemon juice
Directions
- In a small bowl, stir together the yeast, warm water, and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Set aside for 10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the remaining sugar, milk, salt, eggs, and melted butter. Add the yeast mixture and stir to combine.
- Gradually add the flour, 1 cup at a time, stirring until well combined. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
- Fold in the dried fruit and nuts and knead for an additional 5 minutes.
- Form the dough into a ball and place it into a greased bowl. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 400F (200C). Grease a 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pan.
- Punch down the dough and shape it into a round loaf. Place it in the prepared pan.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes until golden brown and the top is crisp.
- Mix the icing sugar and lemon juice together until smooth. Drizzle over the top of the cooled panettone.
Interesting Facts
- Panettone is an Italian sweet bread that originated in Milan.
- It is traditionally served on special occasions such as Christmas and Easter.
- Panettone is made with a rich dough and filled with dried fruits and nuts.
- It is usually finished with a light lemon glaze.
